It's been a good day (even though I've been dreading it for weeks - my first fasting day!), and I sat down to think of the reasons that I enjoy working out. Maybe some of these will entice you (if you don't already) to work out more regularly. Strength training and cardiovascular training are two very important components of my "whole" life. What makes a workout especially rewarding? What gets me to lace up and head to the gym?
Well. I'm a people person. I know, surprise surprise. So, here are the Top Ten things that make me want to head out to get my sweat on:
9. I relieve STRESS! Ever had a bad day and just want to take it out on the treadmill / trail? Or hope that your trainer has sparring on the agenda? How about a Body Combat class where you can imagine kicking that annoying customer / co-worker? Exercise relieves stress through several systems in your body. After a particularly tough day, go for a walk, run, or favorite class or video. You'll feel better and be better equipped to handle stress in the future.
8. Increase your odds! Regular exercise cuts the risks of heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and other chronic health conditions.
7. Live Longer! While exercising won't turn back the clock or make you immortal, there are studies that prove that people who are regularly physically active have lower risk of premature death. Even still - always look both ways before crossing the street, and ALWAYS wear your seat belt.
6. Have energy to burn! Did you know that by working out you're not only burning energy, but you are also helping your body create more energy? Yup! When you exercise, your body delivers oxygen and essential nutrients to your tissues. This not only helps you finish the workout at hand, but also increase your energy throughout the day.
5. Get better Zzzz's! People who exercise spend more time in sleepy zones (slow wave sleep) than those folks who don't exercise regularly. But try not to workout right before bedtime - the effects aren't quite the same and may keep you up!
4. Strong is the new skinny! I don't know about you, but I dream of being fit and beautiful - like an Olympic Beach Volleyball Player - not a twig skinny girl that walks the runway with really bad hair and make up jobs. Fit, healthy and SEXY. Those are my inspirational women!
3. Time to socialize! Like I said earlier - I love people. I like to chit chat, laugh with, and goof around with all different types of people. I see regulars at the gym and at boot camp. I dance next to the same people at Zumba. I and good friends with my favorite instructors and trainers. These are like minded people who are amazing in their own ways. I feel supported and more "normal" when I'm doing something that others enjoy doing, too. You're not alone!
2.Feel good about the way you look! Let's face it, we're all a little vain, some of us more than others, and looking and feeling good is important. We all have our "skinny jeans" or that one dress we wear that makes us feel like a million bucks. Working out gives us added confidence and we just feel more beautiful.
Today my hubster said, "wow - that shirt looks really good on you, you look super cute." It was just a regular work out shirt, but it's fitted and a great shade of blue. He noticed that the shirt is fitting nicer and I'm looking more fit. It's fabulous to get verbal affirmation of all the healthy choices I'm trying to make habits.
1. HAVE FUN! Laugh, enjoy your work out. Be proud of the effort you're putting forth. Enjoy your favorite tunes (guilty pleasures on your iPod that no one else can hear? Ya, I just listened to "Call Me Maybe"! Shhhh!) and get a little silly. Just because it requires effort and may be hard, there is always something to smile and laugh about. Live in the moment and enjoy doing something wonderful for your body, yourself, and those you love.
A healthier you means a happier family. I can be my best - the best mom I can be, the most supportive wife, the best doggy mom (one who has energy to walk and play with them in the yard) - and isn't that what my "whole life" is about?
Tell me about your favorite workouts! What do you do that makes lacing up totally worth it?
Excited to start a new week of healthier choices and great workouts! Relaxation techniques are up next! Who doesn't love to relax? Until next time...
<3 Jen
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