If your goal is to change your body then variety will be the key when choosing the most effective workout for you. Weight training, dance, yoga, pilates and amateur athletics (cycling, running, basketball, etc.) could all have a place in your workout regime during the year to keep your routine interesting, fun and challenging.
Research has shown that when workouts become something you “should do” versus something you “enjoy doing”, your drive to continue working out starts to dwindle. This phenomenon leads to the 1st quarter rush in the fitness industry. In January and March millions of people make the resolution to get fit and healthy so they rush into gyms but as April and May roll around just about 50% fall off the wagon and go back to a sedentary lifestyle where fitness dreams of smaller sizes and healthier bodies go down the drain. Not to mention, the money wasted on gym memberships, trendy diets and weight loss gizmos.
This year, don’t fall prey to this fitness folly!!! Here are a few steps to get you on the path to fitness success:
1. Ask yourself what activity you enjoy doing to steer you in the right direction? Do you like to dance, do you like to sweat, have you ever found enjoyment from lifting weight? Do you enjoy the camaraderie of working with a group or are you a lone ranger?
2. Try a fitness buffet. Most gyms, dance/yoga studios and even fitness videos offer trials (i.e. one week free, complimentary training session, complimentary classes, etc.) Take advantage of these opportunities, at the very least you’ll have fun learning something new.
3. Eliminate the obstacles, bury the excuses. Okay, you’re all ready to workout but something always gets in the way (work obligations, family obligations, social obligations, your favorite TV show, and the list goes on). A little strategic intervention can help you tackle these hurdles. Before you start any exercise program think about any obstacles that could thwart your ability to consistently get to the gym or complete your newfound workout routine at home. Once you’ve identified the issues make a plan to resolve them.
4. If you’re not having fun, look at the exercise environment. Are your surroundings appealing, is the class enjoyable, does your trainer motivate you, or are you just bored. Be proactive in creating a fitness environment that you will take pleasure in day after day.
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