What images spring to your mind when you hear the term “exercise”? You’re not the only one who imagines yourself in workout gear and sweating it all out at the gym. What if you prefer to hit yourself in the eyes than go to the gym? There are many options to help you get fit and healthy. It’s important to discover what type of exercise works best for you.
You can win it if you are in it
Before you begin your search for the ideal exercise environment, take some time to reflect on your motivations. It’s useful to write down your goals when things get tough.
Be specific. If you are in it to lose weight, what is your goal? You can also write down non-scale goals, such as running a marathon or fitting into a certain dress.
Next, think about the “why” of it all. Do you want to be a good example for your children? Your overall health will improve. You should feel good about your clothes and how they look. You should make it a habit of looking back at your goals frequently so that you can keep them in mind.
Do lots of what you love.
Finding something that you enjoy is the key to making exercise a long-lasting habit. Some people may feel empowered and fulfilled when they go to the gym. Others may find their happiness in something completely different. These questions will help you narrow down the best exercise options.
- Are you more comfortable working out outdoors or indoors?
- Do you prefer to exercise with a team or in a small group?
- Do you prefer a high-intensity or gentler activity?
These are just a few of the ideas we have to help you get started.
Steps to Success
Walking is a great exercise for all abilities and fitness levels. Walking is a gentle way to strengthen your legs and give your heart and lungs an exercise. The best part? The best part? You can walk almost anywhere.
Wear your best running shoes to vary the pace by walking uphill, downhill, or on flat terrain. Walking can be a great way to meditate, or to just relax. You could also listen to music, or walk with friends to get an extra boost.
Do you feel like you can do your walking well? Running is a great way of increasing your cardiovascular fitness. You might be competitive if you are interested in running a marathon. For a feeling-good bonus, you may like to walk or run as part of a charity fundraising event.
Get into water-based exercise
There are many ways to have fun in the water. Swimming is another option that people of all abilities can enjoy. It provides gentle resistance and supports the joints.
You can join an aqua aerobics group or pair up with a personal coach for hydrotherapy sessions. You can also wear your best swimwear and go solo to the pool.
Play as a member of a team
Soccer, basketball, squash, oh my! There are so many options when it comes to group sports and activities.
You can either go full contact with rugby or football, or you can keep calm in tai-chi classes. Lawn bowls might seem like a senior sport, but it is worth trying if you are looking for a game to increase your step count and focus on precision.
Dragon boat racing, which is similar to canoe rowing, will tone your upper body and provide a pleasant sense of rhythm as well as team camaraderie. You can always stock up on your own sporting equipment , and challenge your friends to friendly matches at the local park.
You can think outside the box
Unexpected places can offer opportunities for exercise. Horse riding requires endurance and core strength. Rock climbing strengthens the entire body. Hiking and mountain climbing provide fresh air and exercise for your heart and lungs. Do you have a passion for gardening? For an extra weight challenge and bonus steps to the tap, you can water your plants using a simple watering container. If you put enough energy into your housework, even the chores of daily living can be transformed into a workout.
You don’t have to start from anywhere. Find what makes you happy and works with your routine. You’ll soon find that you look forward to your workouts if you find something you enjoy.
