Working out can be fun!
Have you found “the one?” Forget the romantic relationship, I’m talking about your exercise routine. After being forced to try out for the high school soccer team and years of grueling workouts, some of us carry some serious emotional baggage associated with movement. But working out doesn’t have to be boring or torturous! Mix it up and kick your will-power to the curb with these new ways to move. Don’t forget to check with your doctor before starting an exercise routine!
Move ya’ body like a belly dancer
The accelerated dance moves of Zumba invigorates some but overwhelms others. Belly dancing is more controlled, focusing on using your core to move the hips and lower body. Breath work is another component of this ancient dance, allowing you to clear your mind after a busy workday. Try an exercise DVD at home or spontaneously attend a class in your area.
Paddle-up!
Paddle boarding is the perfect combination of core-work and outdoor adventure. Surprisingly, the boards are stable and easy to paddle – but be prepared for a serious arm burn the morning after! Paddleboard yoga and strength classes are popping up across the country, so you can try it year-round. A class can cost you upwards of $30, but you can rent a board for $15 an hour and self-explore at many waterfront locations.
Our CEO Rebecca loves to paddle board during the warmer months!
Pick things up, put them down.
There are millions of reasons to lift weights, but the feeling of empowerment afterwards is too strong to deny. Strength training doesn’t just tone muscles; it also boosts your self-confidence. If you’re intimidated by the weight room, hire a personal trainer for one or two sessions to learn the ropes. Ask specifically for a few sessions, otherwise trainers will try to convince you that you need a whole year. If all else fails, watch a video for form and pretend like you know what you’re doing.
Try out the weight section at the gym! Hire a trainer to show you the ropes if you want
Play!
Whatever happen to capture the flag? When did we get “too old” to play outside? Ditch your phone and rally your friends to a field day. Play capture the flag, build an obstacle course or foursquare. Add mini-challenges to make the games more “extreme.” No friends available? Climb a tree, shoot some hoops, or find a grassy area and just move weird.
Playing around outside with friends and family is a great way to get some movement in. Join a local recreational sports league to meet new people!
Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee.
Boxing is the perfect workout to relieve stress if you are too hyperactive for meditation. This explosive exercise works your entire body, motivating you to move fast the entire workout. Classes at MMA gyms can even double as a self-defense course. Home DVD’s are also an option, or buy a heavy-bag to practice at home.
Working Out Ideas
Pay attention to your body.
If you’ve been injured or notice a nagging pain in your knee, ankle, back etc., be sure to take these ideas with a grain of salt. Do your best to focus on what you can do. If you have a knee injury but still want to participate, march in place or substitute leg exercises with some arm movements. Walking and chair exercises count as exercise too!
Remember Working Out can be fun!
These are just a few ideas to start a new fitness adventure! Not every mode of exercise may be perfect for you, but it can’t hurt to try. The more motivated you are to exercise, the more likely you’ll be to stick to the program.
What are your favorite ways to incorporate movement into your daily schedule! Let us know! If you would like personalized help reaching your wellness goals, schedule a meeting with one of our nutrition professionals at 301-474-2499 or click here.
Contributions by Megan Solloway RD, LDN, CPT
