Have you ever been in a fitness rut? Have you ever experienced boredom with your exercise routine? If you are anything like me, then chances are you have.
Many of us have one or two sports we enjoy. As for me, I am an avid runner. I also enjoy regular strength training. But I get bored of my regular exercise routine at the end of the summer. I struggle with running in the heat and humidity. And I would rather be exercising outside than be inside with my stability ball and dumbbells. Boring! So every August, I allow myself time off from running. Instead, I hit the neighbourhood pool twice a week for a swim workout. It’s incredibly invigorating and it really gets my heart rate up. I also have a series of body weight exercises that are not only effective but are incredibly challenging. Best of all, no equipment is needed. These exercises include pushups, tricep dips, squats, walking lunges and the plank. You can do these anywhere – parks, camp sites, hotel rooms.
Come September, my knees and joints are healthy and ready to start running again. My cardiovascular fitness has been maintained and my body is still strong and toned. I actually miss the running. Taking a break from something you love makes you appreciate it more.
Here is a list of some different activities you can try this month to shake things up a little. We will all be back to our regular routines next month so now’s the time to change things up while you can!
Susan’s “Thinking Outside the Box” Activities
1. Swimming. Whether it’s a lake, an indoor pool or outdoor pool, swimming is refreshing, easy on the joints and a fabulous workout.
2. Walking your dog. It sounds so simple. But if you have a dog, you have to walk anyway. You might as well make the most of it! Go for a brisk power walk, tighten your core muscles and slightly pump your arms.
3. Water Running. A great thing to do at the cottage. Grab a water belt and simply run in the water. You’d be amazed how challenging it is!
4. Skipping. Or as they say in the States, jumping rope. We all remember how to skip. It’s very effective when circuit training for increasing the heart rate. All you need is 2 to 5 minutes to feel the effects … and you feel like a kid again.
5. Power Walking/Running. A terrific alternative to straight running or straight power walking. Simply alternate power walking 5 minutes, running 5 minutes. Add a hill or two in there and you’ll really feel the burn.
6. Cycling. There’s nothing like being outside in the fresh air on your bike. Save the stationary bike for winter. And if your kids are old enough, a family bike ride is a wonderful to spend time together. It teaches the importance of daily physical activity. Kids learn by example.
7. Gardening. Okay, this may be a stretch. But once in a while I love to hang out in my little garden. Think of how many times you squat and lunge pulling those weeds. Be sure to contract your core muscles in order to protect your lower back.
8. Chase your kids in the park. Just plain fun.
9. Relax! Taking time off and having some down time is just as important for your overall health as regular consistent exercise. Allow yourself a break in order to rest between your exercise days. Your muscles need recovery time and so do you.
Enjoy the rest of the summer. There’s really nothing like fresh air and a little exercise to make you feel strong and healthy. You need to take care of YOU first– then you can take care of your family. Don’t forget that.
Happy trails!
Disclaimer
The way to optimal health is to combine good sensible nutrition with consistent strength training and cardiovascular exercise. Consult with a physician before embarking on a new exercise plan. Stop immediately if you feel any pain while doing these exercises.
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