MAKE IT A LIFESTYLE
A fitness lifestyle is much more than overhauling our bodies when we have an upcoming beach trip. Any exercise is better than none, but why not make fitness a habit? Why not eat sensibly even when we wear wintry clothing? Bottom line – fitness becomes much more attainable when we work at it consistently.
Speaking of wintry weather, why not make winter the beginning of fitness goal setting so that we may be proud of our physiques in the upcoming Spring and thereafter? The good news is that results become apparent very quickly.
This post will show details on the benefits of consistent exercise, some of the things to avoid and a few of the products that may help.
THE BENEFITS
Adaptation and progress
- Consistent workouts allow our bodies to adapt and make progress over time. Regular exercise helps to improve strength, endurance and overall fitness.
Establishing habits
- Consistency is the key to developing healthy habits. When we make exercise a regular part of our daily routines, it becomes a habit and is easier to maintain over the long term.
Mental and emotional benefits
- Regular physical activity has proven mental health benefits – the reduction of stress, anxiety and depression. Consistent workouts contribute to an improved mood and a sense of well-being.
Preventing plateaus
- Plateaus in fitness training may occur if we are inconsistent. Sticking to a regular workout routine will prevent plateaus and ensure continuous improvement.
Long – term health benefits
- Consistent exercise is linked to lifetime health benefits, such as reduced risks of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes and obesity.
WHAT TO AVOID
Overtraining
- We need to avoid pushing ourselves too hard without adequate rest. It is possible to be overly enthusiastic in a new fitness journey. Overtraining can lead to fatigue, injuries and slower progress.
Inconsistency
- Skipping workouts often or irregular schedules may slow down our fitness journey. Let’s make lifestyle changes.
Poor form
- Using improper form during exercise can lead to injuries. We may be tempted to “cheat” with heavier weights, but proper technique is more important than increased resistance loads.
Relying only on motivation
- Motivation can be fleeting. Building habits and discipline are more sustainable. We need to create a routine and stay with it even when motivation is low.
PRODUCTS THAT MAY HELP US BUILD CONSISTENCY
- Fitness trackers. Wearable fitness trackers can help us monitor our activity levels and progress.
- Meal prep containers. Having pre-portioned meals can save time and help us make better food choices.
- Quality athletic shoes. Investing in good quality shoes is crucial to provide comfort and prevent injuries during workouts.
- Resistance bands. These versatile and portable tools can add variety to our workouts and provide full body training.
- Foam rollers. These are great for self-myofascial release to alleviate muscle soreness and improve flexibility.
- Water bottles. Staying hydrated is essential for overall fitness and health. A reusable water bottle can serve as a reminder to drink water throughout the day.
AMAZON
I find it very easy to deal with Amazon as a customer. Delivery is fast, especially with Prime. Product quality is assured, problems are addressed and Amazon has about anything we may need.
As an associate of Amazon, I promote their links within my articles and can earn from purchases made from these links, though prices are the same. Each link has pictures, detailed descriptions, reviews and suggestions for other similar or complementary items.
Fitbit Charge 6 fitness tracker
SKG smartwatch – swimming waterproof, health monitor for heart rate, blood oxygen and sleep. Less than $50
Meal prep containers – $20.99
Resistance bands with handles – complete set
Foam roller – for muscle massage
DICK’S SPORTING GOODS
This company has provided most of my athletic equipment for several decades, as well as supplying pro athletes, other amateurs and beginners. Dick’s has also given over $80 million in recent years to support young athletes in communities they serve.
In my area, and presumably throughout the United States, Dick’s is known as the best place to find high quality athletic shoes.
I am an associate of Dick’s Sporting Goods and may earn from sales generated by my permanent link on the side of my website.
Here is the simple process:
- Click on the red link at the side of my website
- See the question “What are you looking for?”
- Go from there. Look for specials.
FINAL THOUGHTS
At the risk of being repetitive, let me say that exercise is not something to be done randomly when we gain too much weight or see our muscles shrink. It is a lifestyle, at least for me.
I can’t remember when I missed a morning workout before breakfast, other than when I had an injury.
Workouts need not be long and excessively demanding. Motivation may be high or low. Habit formation is the key!
Please leave me any comments or questions in the “Comments” section below. Or email me, richard@myworkoutathome.com.
Let’s stay active!
