3 minute read
HEALTHWISE Strong is For Everyone
A Body in Motion
Stays in Motion
With the new year here many of us have made goals for ourselves to get more fit and to live a healthier lifestyle throughout the year. While this can seem like a large task there are several ways we can stay moving to prevent a burnout especially on the days where we lack the inspiration to exercise.
Make it to the Warm Up
Getting to the gym or out the door to exercise in some cases can be harder than the workout itself. On days where the thought of taking today off starts to creep into our mind the best solution is to get through a warm up before making the decision to take the day off. Oftentimes once we have those workout shoes on and our heart rate elevated, we feel much better and more inclined to tackle the workout ahead of us.
Find an Activity You Enjoy
While I’d love everyone to go to the gym and lift weights (being that I’m a trainer) I understand this may not always be possible. This is where finding an activity outside the gym can be super beneficial. Substituting the gym for a bike ride, a hike or even walking while playing a round of golf can be the perfect shake up to keep us inspired to exercise and keep us on our fitness path. Remember, something is always better than nothing.
Find a Workout Partner
Having someone to exercise with is a great way to keep moving because now we have someone holding us accountable. A workout partner can also add an extra boost of morale on the things that are more difficult and can help the workouts be more fun and engaging. Another great aspect of a workout partner is the planning component. Most people will have to set a time and date to workout together which puts some skin in the game making both parties more reluctant to back out.
Move Through The Soreness.
It's inevitable that exercise will cause soreness in the muscle and sometimes joints. However, that shouldn’t deter us from moving. In fact, moving is the very antidote we need. Active recovery is a great way to get rid of muscle soreness as well as aid the body in the healing process. Not to mention getting some form of movement in on those sore and
achy days can be a huge mental win which can be very rewarding.
Something is Better Than Nothing
Something is better than nothing could not be more true when it comes to health and fitness. Not everyone can block off an hour of their day to go workout. They have family, work and other commitments keeping their schedule full. BUT this does not mean they can’t still get in a workout throughout the day. Five minutes here and there really adds up. Whether it's taking the stairs at work or doing bodyweight squats after they send an email the workout is still beneficial.
I hope these tips help you to start and stay moving in 2022! ❂
Come see us at our new location in Byron Center across from the Tanger Mall
Alex Rowe, D1 Grand Rapids Bachelors of Exercise Science - Grand Valley State University NSCA - Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist
