It was a lazy December, I must admit, but now it’s January and time to get back into a training routine. Fitness should be a part of our life, not a simple New Year’s resolution, which is why I suggest trying out a few different workout styles to see what you can stick to. I’m all about lifting weights, but here are some other ideas:
1. HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training)
HIIT training works on elevating your heartbeat in a short period of time (usually 60 seconds or less) and then giving you a short rest period before pushing you into round two. These workouts are usually short, making them the ideal choice for people with busy schedules or those who prefer to work out on their lunch break.
2. Dance cardio
If you want to do cardio but don’t like treadmills or cross-trainers, dance cardio is the way to go. Whether it’s Zumba classes, salsa lessons, or Figure 8 fitness, elevate your heart rate and keep active. The best part about dance cardio is that you don’t need any previous experience. All you need to do is show up.
3. Pilates
Pilates is a form of low-impact exercise that tailors to everyone’s body structure and capabilities. The exercises consist of controlled movements to strengthen muscles and improve posture and flexibility. Pilates mainly targets the core muscles but compound movements may involve other muscle groups.
4. Functional fitness
If all you want to do is move better, functional fitness may be the way to go. This involves exercises that imitate daily movements that you may do at home, work, or while doing light sports. The objective of functional fitness is to improve balance, coordination, strength, and to avoid injury.
5. Mindfulness and meditation
The body isn’t the only thing that needs training, your mind needs its exercise too. Mindfulness and meditation allow your mind to quiet down to reach a heightened state of awareness. Meditation helps with your breathing and overall state of being. Mindfulness and meditation are extremely accessible as you can practise them at any point during your day.
