Enough Hibernating! Get Out of Your Den and Get Fit
By Natalie Jewell
It's not only bears who hibernate for the winter. We humans tend to hide away in our dens as well, but we've got TVs and snacks in ours. With cooler temperatures, we don't always get outdoors moving as often as we should. Our waistlines may expand, but no one sees that under our winter coats anyway, right? Well, spring is here and it's time to face the music -- we need to do something so we can fit back into our spring wardrobe.
Although a change in diet is definitely a key component to slimming down, exercise is also extremely important. But because we've been couch potatoes all winter, we may need to ease into that whole exercise thing! We don't want to injure ourselves and not be able to get out there to enjoy all that spring has to offer. Hello, sunshine and daffodils!
So, what are some ways you can incorporate exercise back into your life without it feeling like torture?
What Do You Want?
Deciding what it is you want to accomplish is a good way to get started. Be realistic about your expectations, however. If you haven't exercised at all for a long time, you may want to aim for 10 minutes of exercise each day, as opposed to 60. You're more likely to reach your goals if they're reasonable.
Walk, Don't Sprint
Even if you feel you're up to running a marathon after day one, how about starting out with a daily walk around the block or peddling on a stationary bike for 20 minutes? If you overdo it, you may become overwhelmed and may injure yourself. Build up the intensity of your workouts gradually.
Sneaky, Sneaky
Life can be busy, so finding time to exercise can be difficult. And sometimes we just don't feel like it. If this is the case, sneaking mini workouts in here and there can still be of benefit. Take the stairs instead of the elevator, park farther away from the office and walk part-way, or do some squats while watching TV. Every little bit helps.
Isn't This Fun?
Do something you enjoy doing. If you prefer going for bike rides, as opposed to jogging, do that. You're more likely to stick with it if you don't dread doing it. And why not ask a friend to join you or take an exercise class? You can support each other; plus, socializing is something to look forward to, making exercising less of a chore.
Easy Does It
Be sure to warm up and cool down after your workout. Even doing some gentle stretching can help you avoid injury. And watch your form so you don't hurt yourself; after all, you want to get the results you're looking for. If your exercise routine involves anything more intense, such as weight training, take rest days so that your body has time to repair itself.
So, get up off that couch and get moving. You're ready now.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Hoboken, NJ