The Joy of Fitness
The key to lifetime fitness is simple. Find physical activities that you enjoy and do them regularly. Just like you did when you were a kid.
If you want all the benefits of physical fitness, it is important for you to find activities that bring joy into your life. Do the type of activity that you are most attracted to and will perform on the most consistent basis. If it is something you enjoy, then it will probably bring you joy of fitness.
Different people enjoy different activities - so the real key is to find a variety of activities that bring a smile to your face and a bounce to your feet.
Joy Of Fitness Survey
In the January 2005 issue of Consumer Reports they documented the importance of joy in maintaining regular physical activity. In a survey of over 20,000 of the magazine's readers, more than half of the "successful exercisers" said that they usually got a "feeling of joy or exhilaration from their physical activity".
Some strategies the successful exercisers used included:
Using these strategies might help you to be more consistent with your exercising and that might create more joy of fitness in addition to better health and all the other benefits of regular exercise.
Six ways to enjoy fitness
Walk a dog - or several dogs
New research shows that both dogs and their people lost weight and gained fitness with daily walks. And, if you really want some exercise, try walking your cats.
Play with a child
Kids naturally love to move their bodies, so moving with them is bound to be fun.
Splash in a pool
For many of us, water has both a calming and soothing effect. Try a water aerobics class or lap swimming.
Do it to music
Any activity goes faster when you listen to something. Pick some up-beat tunes or listen to books on CD.
Try a totally new activity
Try yoga, Pilates, tai chi, kickboxing, or exercise ball movements.
Greet the day with a stretch
Early morning activity can energize your day. Even a few gentle stretches can make a big difference.
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