Make Exercise Your Secret Weapon
By Sandy Schroeder
As we continue to deal with the pandemic, there is a temptation to give in to small guilty pleasures. At my house, it is just too easy to fix a rich pasta dish instead of baked salmon. Or I might fix fried chicken instead of lean turkey burgers. I also bake more pies and less fruit loaves, and buy chips instead of nuts. Then I find myself sitting on the couch instead of using the treadmill. You can see where this is headed.
If you can relate, you may be looking for some good solutions and a little exercise may be one of the best answers to get you back into a healthy groove. Researchers like Bob Karch of American University say exercising for just over an hour each week can boost your fitness and get you back on track.
Here are some tips for exercising vigorously without hassle.
Find something that's fun for you - If you hate regular workouts, try brisk walking, dancing, tai chi, yoga or swimming. Look for classes online for yoga and tai chi.
Start early and set the mood for the day - Wake up 30 minutes early and work out with an online routine, or create your own yoga or strength session. When you are done, you can head into the rest of the day knowing you have completed your exercise quota.
Make everything easy - Smooth out all of the details, when and where you will be exercising, and what you will need for the session. If you work out early have a healthy breakfast. If you have an exercise buddy, coordinate your schedules. If afternoons or evenings are better for you, arrange your schedule to make it work. The more automatic it becomes the more likely it will happen.
Involve the whole family - Look for ways to involve your kids as you walk, run, bike, shoot hoops or practice soccer in the back yard. Give everybody a voice in the process, rotating the workouts with the choices of each family member. If it's your week to choose, you might opt to walk to the park. Your spouse may choose treadmill and stationary bike sessions in the family room and your kids may vote for a family basketball or soccer game.
Overall, keep the fitness goal in focus and keep looking for ways to stay active. Your spirit will lift and you might be inspired to cook lighter too.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Schaumburg, Ill.