Finding your own exercise routine can be a bit confusing with all the different options available. If you’re a beginner then think about what you enjoy doing- rather than what you think you should be doing. This is because when we enjoy the exercise we’re doing, it’s more likely we will stick at it and not give up at the first hurdle. Getting fit doesn’t have to mean running in the rain at 6 am, it doesn’t mean going to boot camp or putting yourself through a horrible time! If you find something that works for you, you’ll have fun in the process and can make it part of your lifestyle. We want to feel great at the end of it, so let’s feel great while we are working out. Here are a few ideas for ways you can work out to feel great.
Walking
Walking as a form of exercise is so underrated; the benefits to your wellbeing and fitness are hugely beneficial. It allows you to burn calories and build stamina, not to mention doing your heart and lungs a favor. Walking tones all areas of your body, from your arms and legs to your core- and as a low impact activity, it is safer than running or jogging. Walking is a pleasant exercise as you inhale the fresh air and can appreciate nature around you, and if it’s a rainy day you could walk on a treadmill at home or in the gym. The intensity of the walk is up to you, making it a distance thing may be to get the steps on your Fitbit, or you may choose to find a route with plenty of hills making it more of a workout. Did you know that you can burn as many calories walking uphill than if you were jogging on a flat level?! The leg muscles are balanced, so they all get a workout rather than one muscle being worked while another is being neglected. The best thing about walking is no special equipment is needed and it is free to do, all that’s required are comfortable shoes and a little determination. If you have a fitness tracker it can help you to challenge yourself and track your workouts, but it’s not essential. There are free apps you can install on your phone that can map your route if you don’t want to spend any money.
Sports
Joining a sports club can be great for team building and making new friends. There’s something for everyone too, maybe you and your partner could challenge each other with games of tennis or badminton. Perhaps you could get the family together and enjoy the regular games of cricket or football at the park. If you don’t have enough players willing to join in, you could always join a local team and play with them instead. Football, hockey, and basketball are all examples of sports you could try. If you get really into the sport, it can be fun to go and watch the professionals every now and again. You can find tickets for all kinds of matches on sites like Ticket Offices.com and see the professionals play live.
Go To The Gym
The gym isn’t for everyone- many people get put off by the idea of such a formal workout or can find it a little daunting stepping into a gym. But if you’ve never given it a try, it can be a lot of fun and really help you to reach your goals. The benefit of working out in a gym is you can focus on different areas and build strengthen parts of the body that may need developing. Some people can be nervous about gyms but there’s no need to be, everyone is there for the same reason, for self-improvement and to get fitter. If you’re new to the gym, ask for induction to get you started where everything will be explained to you in a friendly and encouraging way. You could even hire a personal trainer who can give you advice and exercises specifically for your body and your goals. Some gyms even have childcare and creches so if you’re planning on getting fit when you have young children then this could be a great way to go about it.
Swimming
If you want to get fit but suffer from injuries, joint problems or just prefer something low impact then swimming is an activity to consider. You can get your heart rate up without stress on your joints, work all of your muscles from head to toe, and builds strength and endurance. Swimming is great for those that are new to a fitness routine, as long as you can swim then you can take things at your own pace. For example, start by doing lengths of the pool for thirty minutes, three times a week and then build it up from there. Swimming can be a lot more enjoyable than other activities, you don’t get hot and sweaty and it’s fun too. Many people find it easier than jogging and running although the calories they burn off is the same. Taking a healthy packed lunch with you for after your swim is a good idea as many people feel hungry after swimming.
Yoga
Nothing feels better than a good stretch and when done correctly it can leave your muscles flexible and strong. Always remember to stretch before you workout to warm the muscles up ready for exercise, and again at the end of a work out to bring the heart rate down slowly. Originating in India, yoga has been a growing trend for a number of years now, not surprising when you consider it’s great for giving mind and body awareness. Yoga and stretching can lower your blood pressure, and help to give you a good night sleep. It can take you away from what is stressing you, and draw you to yourself and thoughts. Through the breathing techniques and meditative state that come with it, yoga has been scientifically proven to reduce your stress significantly, so if you suffer from stress you may want to consider giving this a go. Joining a local yoga club could be a good way to go as everyone is different, and an instructor can tailor a program that is just right for you. An instructor can give you advice on what stretches to do so preventing injury so it’s something to consider before you jump head first with no guidance.
