I was contacted yesterday by someone wanting to offer a program at my studio. I loved that they were comfortable reaching out to me however, I continue to run my studio with the thought that fitness must be fun or no one will stick with a workout program. It is my studio tag line and I intend to honor this heartfelt belief! It is the very thing that will keep my clients coming back!
Having fun is truly the key to staying with your exercise regiment. Other than chores, do we ever really want to do anything that is not fun? No, we don't. So why can't fitness be fun? It is fun and if you are not having fun trust me, fitness can be fun if you find the right place to workout! It is my main driving force when choosing my programs and schedules.
You must have patience in your process and exercise in moderation to keep things fun!
Many folks dive into a program and push too hard and too quick to get themselves back in shape. Like fast food, we all want things NOW and sometimes forget that good things are worth the wait. Being impatient and taking shortcuts to a healthy lifestyle or fitness regiment will only cause disappointment, injury and discouragement.
Have fun and love your workouts! If you need a rest day, take it. Your body talks to you often and you will need to listen to it.
Here are my top suggestions to stick to your workouts and have fun doing it!
Socialize. No, I don't mean stand by the treadmill and talk to someone while they workout! I mean grab a sidekick and try a new class! You now have a workout buddy!
Variety. Step out of your comfort zone. Most of all, create some muscle confusion! So you do Latin Cardio Dance three times a week. Try a Pole Fitness class or a Tabata, HIIT or Circuit Class maybe even lift some weights! You will get fit, faster!
Family. I always tell my friends and fellow workout partners, "Family is Always First" - so make them first! Take a long walk or bike ride, but bring a picnic basket. Register for a family fun run. Play a good old game of ball! You can always get a great game of tag on in the neighborhood! Walk the dogs.
Activities. Take an adult dance class, golf, learn to swim laps or join a sports league. If you played basketball when you were young, find an adult league and use your skills, you still got' em! I loved dance as a child and my studio is danced based fitness!
Always check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.
Work with trained and certified instructors who will introduce you to exercise gradually. Sore is fine - but sore for a full week later is over training! Ask for references!
Try Before You Buy. Most studios or gyms will allow you to try out the facility before committing to a contract or membership. Be sure you feel comfortable or you won't take advantage of the facility! Many facilities literally BANK on you not showing up - but are sure to deduct your monthly payment and hold you to your contract.
Rewards. Don't forget to reward yourself. Set realistic short-term goals and set some long-term goals as well. Reward yourself with new gym shoes or a motivational shirt maybe a massage! You deserve it!
There are so many ways to keep fitness fun! Use your imagination and involve your entire family and bring your friends!
A fitness program you love can add years to your life and certainly will add life to your years!
Penny
PonyTails Dance & Fitness Studio, LLC
Ephrata, PA
Lancaster County
