Jump-start Your Fitness (No Jumping, Though, Please!)

Are you undeniably out of shape and ready to get back in the swing of things? Covid and last winter combined have left many of us feeling a little under the mark when it comes to leading an active and healthy lifestyle. We have good news for you, though: Summer is a great time to get up and get moving both indoors and out.

When you are gearing up to get back into shape, it is important to remember to take it slowly and get some input from your physician as to what your body is capable of. If you are a member of the Hancock Wellness Centers, you are a shoo-in for some of the amazing programs on offer, such as the Physician Referral Program, Clinical programs, and even personal training. It is okay to need some help getting back into the habit of making healthy lifestyle choices, and these offerings will get you on the track to success. 

So, you are ready to start that workout routine, but what are some great exercises to begin with? If you have been sedentary for some time or you have just not put movement and activity at the top of your to-do-list, take it easy. Be gentle with yourself and your body and know that it will take baby steps to build your strength and stamina. Injuries or pushing yourself too hard too soon will only set you back.

Walking, swimming, and cycling are wonderful, gentle exercises to get you back up to speed. Try incorporating some daily movement into your schedule, whether that is an evening walk with the dog or a morning bicycle ride with a friend. Set a small goal, such as 30 minutes of gentle exercise per day to start. A 30-minute walk is easy enough to try and will not only help your physical health, but your mental health as well.

Once you set and attain a small goal of moving every day, you can start to add some new classes or exercises into the mix. Yoga is a great physical activity that builds flexibility and strength while also helping you to have a stronger mind-body connection. Pilates is another gentle strengthening exercise that focuses on your core and posture. You will develop long, lean muscles by performing movements that require you to hold positions. Hancock Wellness Centers offer a variety of yoga and Pilates classes, or you can join a studio to support local business.

One thing is for sure, when you are ready to amp up your workout, joining a group exercise class is the way to go. Being surrounded by others is a great motivator, especially if it has been a hot minute since you were getting your sweat on in a gym. Not only that, but certified instructors can help to make sure you are on track for no injuries. Again, listening to your body is the best way to move forward when you are trying to attain your exercise goals. 

Some great classes to try for beginners include water aerobics, CrossFit (yes, they have varying levels and something for everyone) and dance classes like Zumba. Mix up your workouts to keep it interesting so you end up wanting to head to the gym each day or week. By establishing a routine for yourself, you will be able to attain fitness goals and get back on a path toward better health.

Not to be competitive, but you can add in some serious fitness bonus points by making sure you are taking your healthy lifestyle home with you. Being at the gym or outdoors getting some exercise is great, but you will find quicker results if you make sure to clean up your diet, sleep, and other habits as well. If you need help getting into a better routine of choosing healthy foods, you can take advantage of the various programs involving registered dieticians that are routinely offered at the Hancock Wellness Centers.

Nothing beats feeling great about your health. It’s time to get off the couch and (gently!) begin to create better habits that will lead you on a path toward your best life.