Working Out And What It Looks Like For You
Creating a workout routine typically sounds like a daunting task. There are so many questions running through my head: Am I going to enjoy this workout? Will I run out of breath after a mile? Am I really toning anything in my body or am I doing it all wrong? These are the main reasons people quit working out as soon as they start. It is so important to understand that just like we enjoy different hobbies, our bodies also respond to different forms of exercise in different ways.
You may just be lacking the motivation to put on some workout clothes and turn on that inspirational playlist. I know the feeling, I’ve been there too. But working out and moving your body in some way has so many benefits. Not only is it good for the body but also very important for your mental health as well. Working out can improve mood and decrease feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress. Getting your body moving increases the production of endorphins which causes those positive feelings and emotions.
Like I mentioned before, not everyone is going to respond well to the same form of exercise. So here’s a little breakdown of the different types of workouts you can try, even in the comfort of your own home.
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Cardio training
This includes walking, running, cycling, skiing, swimming, and dancing. Basically anything that will get your heart rate up!
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Sports
Everyone has a sport they prefer. My personal favorite is volleyball so any chance I get to spike, set, or serve, I am there.
Photo: https://www.runnersworld.com/training/a20865330/weight-training-for-runners/
Weight training
I personally don’t hit the gym so I enjoy finding YouTube videos. I follow along with weights that I have at home and incorporate this into my workout routine.
Photo: https://www.runnersworld.com/training/a27086362/unique-yoga-poses/
Yoga
There are many forms of yoga: hot yoga, hatha, ashtanga, vinyasa flow. These different types of yoga all include a form of stretching and isometric bodyweight exercises.
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Pilates
This form of exercise incorporates movements with an emphasis on alignment, breathing and building the core.
Now that we have learned about the different types of workouts, I want to talk about the specific benefits they provide.
Cardio training can improve cardiorespiratory and pulmonary health while reducing blood pressure and the risk of heart disease or stroke. Cardio also increases circulation and lowers the risk of diabetes.
Weight training increases muscle mass, endurance, and strength. This type of training ramps up the metabolism while increasing bone density.
Flexibility training such as yoga and pilates increases range of motion. These exercises can also release tension both physically and mentally. Some added benefits include mobility improvement and reducing the risk of injury associated with other exercise and movement.
