Running, Weights, Pilates - Oh My!

Did you know research shows that fitness can literally make you happier? The benefits don’t end there. Some of the benefits of exercising include increased mental health, improved sleep quality, disease prevention, better bone health, reduced blood pressure, increased heart and brain health, and so much more. There are also many ways to achieve these benefits. Sometimes getting into fitness and exercise can seem pretty daunting, and you may feel intimidated to try. However, once you realize all the types of movement that can be classified as fitness, such as cardio workouts, strength training, low-impact Pilates, or even dancing in your kitchen, you may find it easier to enjoy exercise. Let’s explore some different workout types.

Cardio Workouts

This form of exercise gets your heart rate going quickly. It’s great because you don’t always need equipment, and it can easily be done anywhere. Some cardio workouts that can be done inside include high-intensity interval training (HIIT), dancing classes, running on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike. Weather permitting, you can also get outside and do many fun forms of cardio movement. Some outdoor cardio activities include running, biking, walking with a friend, taking a hike or walking the dog. Plus, you can get vitamin D from being out in the sun.

Strength Training

This type of fitness involves building muscle. The most common types of strength training include weightlifting and resistance bands. You can even do these activities at a gym or group workout facility, making it a great way to be social and meet new people who are interested in the same type of health outcomes as you. Can’t make it to the gym? There are plenty of ways to do strength training at home. For example, you can use water bottles or soup cans for weight. Check out this article about home workouts for some other ideas.

Yoga and Pilates

These two forms of low-impact exercise both help to inspire movement through mindfulness. The major difference between yoga and Pilates is that Pilates focuses on core strengthening while yoga focuses on general flexibility. Both can involve the use of equipment as well as can be done without. Much like the other types of exercises, these can be also done at home or in a class. Try checking out free online videos that range in skill level and class focus from the comfort of your home. In-person classes are a great way to meet new people, with the benefit of being able to use equipment you may not have at home as well as having an instructor’s guidance. Get creative with your options! Hot yoga could be a great way to say goodbye to the cold weather, and an outdoor yoga class could be a great way to welcome the warmer spring season.

Regardless of the type of activity you choose, rest and nutrition is just as important as exercise. We can’t fully reap the benefits of fitness if we don’t listen to our bodies. So, make sure you rest when needed, and be sure to stay hydrated and properly nourished. This will help you recover for your next workout and prevent any sort of fitness-related injury.

Ready to incorporate fitness, but want to make sure you’re getting the proper fuel to do so? Meet with one of our registered dietitians to come up with a nutrition plan that’s right for you.

^{Disclaimer: This information is educational only and is not meant to provide healthcare recommendations. Please see a healthcare provider.}