A workout can be hard to define sometimes. If you walked to lunch and back does that count? If you sat up straight for 10 minutes and took deep breaths does that count? Or do you have to lift heavy things or run as fast as you can to get a workout? The truth is that a workout is a very subjective thing. What might be a workout for you might not even be an option for someone else. The good news is that whatever works for you…IS best for you. Find something that makes you happy and makes you feel good, and since consistency is the most important part of any wellness routine, stick with it. The following three types of workouts are fun and effective and can be found near your office or home.
There are almost as many forms of Yoga as there are forms of exercise in general. Yoga is more of a state of mind than a form of movement. And as cheesy as that sounds, it’s true. The physical movements in a contemporary Power Yoga class, for instance, are mimicked in a number of fitness classes, but during a Yoga practice, there is an emphasis on controlling your breath and your mindset. This setting might not appeal to everyone, but it’s a great way to get strong, fit, focused, and calm, all in one workout. If you are interested in trying out a Yoga class be sure to read class descriptions first as they can range from breathwork, to seated meditation, to super intense and over 100 degrees.
photo credit: @chadsimages of @erinfukuda
Speaking of meditation… some runners claim that the stress relief and calming benefits of a daily run is the most important part of their wellness routine. Running is a great way to train your aerobic system and your cardiovascular endurance. There are obvious risks of foot, knee, or lower back injury; however, if you are interested in starting a running routine, a great approach would be to purposely start slow. Run for 1 minute and walk for 4 until you make a mile. Try that for a couple of weeks then increase the running time and decrease the walking time. Finding the right pair of shoes is also very important. Be sure to pay close attention to any pain and seek professional help if any discomfort persists.
Another great option is walking. Studies show that a 10-minute walk can change your brain’s chemistry and shift you in to a better mood. If you don’t already do a lot of walking, the same tips apply as running. Start slow. Make sure you have the right shoes. Find a friend to walk with on your lunch break, or take Fluffy out and explore your neighborhood. Walk on the beach or hike in nature. If the outdoor thing isn’t for you, get a treadmill or head to your local gym. Walking is highly beneficial for body/mind well-being.
Adult kickball leagues are springing up all over the country and are a great way to make a workout seem more like social hour. Kickball, a much simpler and lower impact version of baseball, but played with an inflatable rubber ball that you kick from home plate, requires some jogging, throwing, kicking and best of all, cheering. Simply leaving your home or office, going to meet friends at a park, and being on your feet can be a great part of your wellness routine. The once or twice weekly team practices are just a bonus. You can find adult kickball, dodgeball, flag football, and many other fun sports in most cities and by visiting websites like kickball.com.
There is NO wrong way to work out. Find what works for you and have a good time doing it. Consistency really is the key to a successful wellness routine. Being the MostFit you can be, anytime, anywhere, is your personal journey. Enjoy it!