Our fitness and exercise routines have been significantly altered during this pandemic. The decline in COVID-19 cases has got me thinking about what our post-pandemic exercise routines will look like. Yes, I am remaining cautiously optimistic that the pandemic is nearly over.
For many of us who had gym memberships, a Peloton bike became our new gym. Many others got resistance bands, weights, and kettlebells and used workout apps at home.
So, what is an exercise snack? It is a short burst of exercise that you do periodically during the day such as climbing stairs, doing some squats or wall sits, jumping jacks, yoga moves, stretching, dancing, and more. Scientific studies have shown that this exercise snacking done several times a day can have a big impact on your health.
Why not have an exercise snack when you start to get hungry between meals. Add a big glass of water and you may just avoid having that high-calorie snack your mind was driving you towards.
As we gain more freedom in a post-pandemic time, it is a good time to evaluate how you like to move and design a movement regimen that works for you. Certainly, getting vigorous exercise is important for your health and wellbeing. Regular exercise has numerous health benefits that are well known but sustaining an exercise regimen can be hard. Here are some coaching tips to keep in mind as you learn how to enjoy moving your body and designing a “movement” regimen for yourself.
If It’s Not Fun, Avoid It. Chances are you might not sustain a regimen if you don’t enjoy it.
When the Pain Starts, Stop. Pain is an indicator there is a problem. Listen to your body, it will warn you.
Avoid Imitation. It is easy to model yourself after someone else, it may be perfect for them but not for you. Find your own way.
Deal Cautiously with Competition. Competition can be a great motivator but can cause frustration and bad feelings. Look for your own sense of accomplishment.
Reward Every Effort. Set realistic limits for yourself, avoid being hard on yourself, and congratulate yourself on any efforts.
Breathe. Make sure you are maximizing the use of your breath by inhaling as your movements expand and exhale as they contract.
Love Yourself. Acknowledge what you like about your body and how your body supports you every day. Come up with a mantra to say as you get yourself inspired to move such as “I am moving with grace and beauty.” “I love myself as I grow in strength and agility.” “Look at me, I’m beautiful.”
So as our world opens back up and our weather becomes nicer here in the Northeast why not try something different that you might just enjoy. Being open to new ways of moving your body and tweaking your exercise/movement regimen is good for the body, mind, and soul.
“An early morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.” ~ Henry David Thoreau