Working out, exercising or ‘getting’ active. No matter which word you use, it really doesn’t have to be scary. Thank goodness we hear you yell.
At various times of the year, you might set the intention to get active or be more active. New Year is obvious, after the London Marathon or having enjoyed the tennis at Wimbledon are others.
A new gym opening in the area that makes you think ‘I should start working out’. Or maybe you’ve been inspired by one of our blog posts, the one about green exercise, the benefits of cycling or why running is good for you perhaps?
Yet you do nothing.
We understand because we know that fear of injury or worrying about an old injury can stop you getting your running shoes out or dusting off your racquet.
You might be worried about how to start and not a clue how to use the equipment in the gym – you’re not alone there we can assure you? Maybe, you’ve no idea what to wear because the choice of workout clothes is now like finding the right outfit for a wedding. The same being said of finding the right footwear … the choice is now huge.
We get it.
As do many other organisations including the NHS and The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.
Yet, unlike days gone by (goodness I’m sounding old with that phrase) there is now a huge range of activity for you to choose from including Nordic Walking and Seated Zumba. Low impact, easy and fun!
There is no longer the need to sweat it out on the squash court or spin like crazy on a bike in a hot gym classroom.
You can enjoy the slower pace of Pilates, great for core strength and improving your flexibility. Join a walking group the perfect way to meet new people, enjoy our beautiful countryside and increase that heart rate.
What is exercise?
The definition of exercise according to the dictionary is “activity requiring physical effort, carried out to sustain or improve health and fitness.” When we googled the definition of physical effort we found this .. “activity of exerting your muscles in various ways to keep fit.” Simple really as you just need to get moving.
No mention of Lycra, sweating or pounding the streets into the night.
It should be fun and you don’t have to need a huge goal like become the next Iron Man or Woman champion (unless you want to of course). At its very simplest exercise or being active is good for the mind, body and soul.
There is absolutely no pressure on you to do anything more than enjoy yourself.
Three ways to get started:
- Find something you enjoy doing or used to enjoy doing. If football or netball was your thing find a team and join the training sessions. And by the way, walking versions of both are lots of fun and yes still increase the heart rate.
- Do it with a friend and we’ve blogged about the benefits before. Working out or exercising with a friend is more fun, you work harder and more likely to stick at it.
- Think outside of the box. Ditch the car and walk to work, get off the bus a few stops before yours. Love dancing, then join a class. Enjoy gardening them make it a regular habit or why not volunteer for Horatio’s Gardens to increase the number of hours you’re working those muscles.
Come and see us
We’re not just here for when you injury yourself. No. We’re here to keep you on the move and doing the things you love … for as long as you want. If you’re worried about an old injury or need exercises to get you started call 01722 415 055 to make an appointment.
