Spring into Action

By Chris Eschler, Health and Well-Being Life Coach

I love spring. I also love the anticipation of summer as the weather shifts and the daylight hours gradually grow longer. I become excited to ramp up exercise and set fitness goals. It’s a great time to get outdoors, head out for a hike, go for a walk or bike ride, sign up for a 5k, or participate in whatever your passion may be!

Recently, I was at a women’s conference where the presenter asked, “Can you guess what the best overall exercise is?” I couldn’t wait to find out! I was excited to know of the new research that would prescribe the perfect exercise regime for maximum health. I was a little stunned when the presenter answered her own question by saying, “It’s whatever exercise you enjoy!”

The good news is that you don’t have to grit your teeth to lose the winter pounds you gained in order to fit into your summertime attire. Instead, it’s time to rewrite the script for those negative connotations about exercise that you carry. Here is how.

Get to know yourself.

If it’s been a long time since you’ve done anything active, think of a time that you were active. What did you once find enjoyable? What have you thought about trying lately? Don’t allow fears to stop you from trying something new. Chances are most people are going to be impressed that you are willing to try.

Think in terms of what you can do, not what you can’t do.

If you were once an avid basketball player but now have bad knees, don’t let that get you down. Practice shooting hoops, dribble standing still, or pass the ball back and forth with a friend. You don’t have to be tearing it down the court to activate muscles. Do what you can now rather than making comparisons to what you once were able to do. You may be able to get closer to your old stamina level than you ever thought possible just by taking small, bite-sized, consistent steps.

Pat yourself on the back for what you are doing.

Don’t be defeated by not being better. Rather, reach for growth. We start out crawling before we walk. We all start somewhere, so don’t beat yourself up with comparisons. Celebrate accomplishments and milestones regardless of how gradual they may be.

Recognize that opportunities for growth often spring from the start and finish of something difficult.

I remember the first time I stepped into a gym. I was put on a stationary bike by the fitness trainer. She walked away, telling me to pedal for ten minutes. I thought I would have a heart attack after the first two minutes! At the time, I was mortified as everyone around me was pedaling super strong and fast while my bike kept shutting off because I was pedaling so slow. The bike wasn’t even registering that I was moving, and there I was, panting! Fortunately, I didn’t give up. Years later, I began running marathons (not something I ever visualized being capable of doing as I sat on the stationary bike), which later became a passion of mine. Had I never started somewhere, I never would have attempted that first marathon.

Get moving and have fun!

There are so many options. Whether it be horseback riding, paddle boarding, pickleball, yoga, or a new Zumba class, spring into action with your passion. Get moving this spring and summer by doing something that you love!

About the Author

Chris Eschler earned a BS in Marriage and Family Sciences at Brigham Young University-Idaho. As a life coach at Ascend Counseling and Wellness. Chris works with individuals to develop their skills and provides a safe, accepting environment for exploring a wide range of thoughts and feelings. Chris knows that you are the expert of your life and that she is simply a guide. She currently sees couples with her husband, licensed therapist Matt Eschler. Together they assist couples with all couples issues, specializing in high conflict couples work. To schedule an appointment with Chris for life coaching, call Ascend Counseling and Wellness at 435-688-1111 or visit https://ascendcw.com/.

Recently, I was at a women’s conference where the presenter asked, “Can you guess what the best overall exercise is?” I couldn’t wait to find out! I was excited to know of the new research that would prescribe the perfect exercise regime for maximum health. I was a little stunned when the presenter answered her own question by saying, “It’s whatever exercise you enjoy!”