Fitness Should Be Fun!

Today’s contribution is by Emily Spencer, MPH, NASM - CPT – Wellness Associate at the James C. Kennedy Fitness Center.

 

Do you dread heading to the fitness center to workout? There are lots of people who think they hate exercising because they find the traditional fitness center setting boring or intimidating. Maybe you get bored running on the treadmill. Maybe you look at all of those free weights and have no idea what you’re supposed to do with them. If this sounds like you, I’ve got five tips to help you find an activity that you enjoy.  If you are enjoying your fitness routine you are much less likely to stick with it. Fitness can be fun, and it should be!

 

1. There is more to the fitness center than treadmills and dumbbells.

If you’re tired of coming into the fitness center and doing the same    routine every time, shake it up! Try something new! Your body will      appreciate the change of pace and maybe you’ll find something that  you really enjoy. For example, did you know that you can program      our bikes to take you on a hills course ride? Or that our ellipticals can guide you through a strength and cardio circuit?

We also offer a variety of group fitness classes at our fitness center. Classes can include everything from yoga and Zumba to kickboxing and HIIT. Our classes are catered to all fitness levels. If the traditional treadmills and dumbbells isn’t your “thing” maybe group fitness is!

 

2. Work with a personal trainer.

We offer personal training at all of our fitness centers. If you are unsure of how to reach your goals or don’t know how to plan your own workout, personal training could be a great option for you. You’ll have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with a trainer, discuss your goals, and design a realistic plan that works for you!  Contact your wellness staff at your fitness center for more details.

 

3. Find a workout buddy!

You are so much more likely to do something if someone is counting on you. How easy is it to cancel plans with yourself or make an excuse why you can’t make it to your workout today? Maybe you’d rather go home and watch the next episode of whatever Neflix show you’re currently hooked on. But, if you had to call a friend and give them that excuse to get out of going to workout, would you?

 

4. Ask for help!

Each of our facilities is staffed with wellness specialists, personal trainers, registered dietitians and more! If you are unsure of how to use a piece of equipment or want to know what exercises are best to strengthen your legs, ask one of our wellness staff! We are all here to help you reach your goals.

 

5. Try something else!

Is this still not sounding good? Do you still dread the fitness center? Ok, then try something else! There’s a whole world of fitness options outside of the fitness center! If you have a dog, try taking him or her on longer walks instead of just staying out long enough for your pet to do it’s business. Maybe you played tennis or soccer in high school or college, try signing up for a league! There are social leagues and more competitive leagues for lots of individual and team sports. Have you ever tried bouldering or stand up paddle boarding or a martial arts class? Maybe one of these activities could be your thing! There is something out there for everyone, you’ve just got to find it.

 

zumba-3