How Can You Make Your Workouts Fun?

 

Prevention Magazine ran an article by Natalie Gingerich (February 2010) about ways to put an element of fun into your “workout” program. It sounded sensible to me because boredom is the biggest bugaboo when it comes to maintaining a workout program.  I always groan when the perky receptionist tells me to “enjoy” my workout.  Enjoyment is usually the last thing on my mind when I head for the treadmill or the weight room.

 

The author isolates three plans and you get to pick out the one that is closest to your fitness level.  Plan One is for those who are new to the concept of fitness exercise, or if they haven’t worked out for 6 months.  Plan Two is for those of you who have stopped exercising within the last 6 months, and Plan Three is for those who need a little more motivation, or are trying to break through a plateau.

 

Each plan integrates a cardio workout (you get to choose any activity that you like) but an interval walking or walk/run program is a good way to add some interest, some feel good firming moves, and some fun activities.

 

What activity is fun for you?  I mean really fun.  You know, finding ways to exercise your body that are actually enjoyable. It isn’t all about cardio machines and pedometers you know. How about bicycling?  Cycling was a childhood favorite that is still a great calorie burner.  Start out easily on a flat trail and gradually increase the level of difficulty. Let yourself enjoy the fresh air and the feel of the wind on your face.  It can be fun again.

 

What about dancing?  How about ballroom dancing or swing if you have a partner or jazz, tap or line dancing if you are alone.  If you love music and find yourself tapping your toes when you hear a melody, this might be your idea of fun.

 

Ah, yoga.  I love yoga and it makes me feel good (although it isn’t quite as easy as you might imagine).  There is no better way to stretch and loosen tight muscles than a gentle yoga class. 

 

Swimming isn’t everybody’s cup of tea but exercising in the water gives you a good workout that is easy on your joints.  Try a class and you don’t even have to know how to swim.

 

Team sports are ideal for the young at heart.  When your friends rely on you to show up, you had better be there.  Having set workout times and games to play means that you have no excuses not to show up.  If you need a way to release aggression and nothing but throwing punches and jabs will do, try kick boxing or commit to a martial arts program.  One of these choices should hit your funny bone.

What does feel good firming mean?  These are your basic strength training moves.  Boring perhaps, but if you can do 10-15 reps of each exercise your body will thank you.  When using dumbbells, choose a weight that tires you out by the last one; if you can’t do 8 reps you need a lighter weight.  Once you can do 15 reps easily you need to increase the weight.  We are talking about the old standbys here:  Bent Rows, Rocker Squats, Recline Press, and the Raised Plank.  Not too many and you can run through them in 20 min or less.

 

Okay, ready? Pick your plan.  Figure in a cardio workout that you can stand and add some firming moves to tone your body and increase your energy level.  Last but not least figure in something that you really enjoy and go for it.  You don’t have to do the same things every single day.  Mix and match and just remember that the important part is that you keep moving.

 

Comments

[ask doctor online]

listening to music is my workout partner :D