Fitness Tip: Remember to Have Fun

By Sandy Schroeder

Some things require discipline, but exercise thrives with a lighter approach. Making it a 'must do' just slows everything down. Doing something that you love works better. 

The friends that I know who exercise all of the time love what they are doing. Their secret is they remember to have fun. Remember how much fun biking was when you were a kid? Do the things that are fun now and feel the difference. 

What do you enjoy most? Dancing, biking or running? Walking through the woods, skating or skiing? If you love it, you will find the time. 

Keep it flexible - If it is Tuesday, you don't have to be walking. When a schedule becomes too rigid, it becomes a chore. Switch your schedule around whenever you can to keep it fresh. Running early in the morning may feel entirely different than it does at night and a walk in the middle of the day may improve your whole afternoon. 

Make it a party - Look for groups that fit your exercises. Yoga on the beach, biking with a group on Saturdays, or basketball on Sunday afternoons adds more motivation to your routines. It may also lead to more outings, tournaments and new friends. 

Look for new stuff - If you would love to learn to play golf, give it a try. Or take a community class to learn a new sport and encourage your children to try it too.  

Reward your efforts - Start charting your progress in fitness, weight, and endurance and reward yourself with new sneakers or hats. Get your family involved and post pictures and progress.  

Activate your day - Skip the couch and activate your day. Stretch, walk or climb stairs on breaks and do sit-ups, lunges or squats when you watch TV or listen to music. Remember to do strength training at least twice a week. Keep your weekends active too with camping, biking, short trips and wilderness walks. The more you move the more energy you will have. 

Branch out - If your exercise tips and tricks are working, you might want to use the same approach with cooking healthy. List your favorite foods and look for recipes to make them healthier with the right ingredients. Use olive oil, lean protein, leafy greens and fresh fruits to concoct new treats. 

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Brea, Calif.