When you start your fitness journey, there are bound to be some ups and downs. Every person has their own ability level, which means that exercise isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” sort of activity. Some people love cardio, where others would rather work on strength training. And while swapping up your routine to incorporate different kinds of exercise is important, it doesn’t always mean you love doing the exercises involved. However, there are many ways to work in different kinds of exercise that don’t involve heading to the gym to break out a sweat.
Kinds of Exercise
There are four main categories of exercise, all targeting a different aspect of physical ability.
Endurance
When we think of working out, endurance or aerobic exercise is one of the most popular options. Endurance is an important part of fitness because it targets and strengthens our heart, lungs, and circulatory system. By building endurance, you can work out longer without needing to rest. In fact, when you begin working out, endurance is a great place to start. Even taking a light walk can improve your endurance. So get up and get moving!
Strength
Strength is the other superstar of the exercise world. After all, everyone wants to be strong. Strength training is another important cornerstone of exercise. Aside from making you stronger overall, strength training protects bone health and builds muscle mass. Strength exercises are the masters of body contour and weight loss. You’ll want to emphasize this kind of routine if you want that six-pack you’ve been dreaming of.
Balance
By pursuing balance-related exercises, we learn how to move and control our bodies better. Balance training is important for several reasons. One, it strengthens those oh-so-important stabilizing muscles. Working on balance also protects our joints and helps to keep them strong and less break-prone. And finally, balance exercises can help us look inward and improve our self-awareness as well as internal focus.
Flexibility
It is in exercise as it is in life: Flexibility is key. Practicing flexibility is an often overlooked kind of training but it’s very critical. Flexibility, coupled with strength, means that you’ll be able to withstand different levels of physical activity. It aids in our posture, reduces pain, and improves overall strength. Flexibility can take some time to build up, but it’s really important that you stretch before and after a workout. It gives your muscles a chance to warm up and prepare, as well as let them cool down gradually, reducing that dreaded after-workout soreness.
Choosing An Exercise
When picking an exercise, think about the kinds of activities you enjoy. Many workout routines incorporate fun into the mix, which is always a bonus when it comes to getting your sweat on.
Walking, Running, or Jogging
Walking, running, and jogging is an easy choice for many people. After all, you don’t need any fancy equipment and the sidewalk is free. Even if you’re at the gym, the treadmill is a great way to get your body moving. This type of exercise is great for endurance. Walking (at various speeds) has been proven to improve your mood, build self-confidence, help relieve stress by way of burning off excess energy, and is a solid way to burn calories. If you love nature, then look for parks or nature trails you can work through. Take in the sights and sounds and get a little exercise in during the process.
Swimming
Swimming is an awesome way to exercise. Because we use all of our muscles to move around in the water, swimming is one of the only forms of exercise that works out your entire body all at once. The best part is that swimming, by nature, has exceptionally low impact, making it easy on your muscles and joints. Swimming builds endurance while still being exceptionally relaxing. It burns calories at an alarming rate and is wonderful for strengthening your heart and lungs. Swimming is also ideal for people who have injuries or conditions that might prevent them from following a more traditional workout. Finally, if you’re looking for an exercise that doesn’t involve dripping sweat, this one’s for you.
Biking
If you’re interested in being outdoors, but don’t want to hoof it, biking is another great activity that will make you feel the burn. Biking or cycling are excellent for working out your thighs, calves, butt, and even your core. It’s also an excellent way to break into fitness, as it’s good for beginners. Furthermore, studies have linked biking to improved mental health and reduced stress levels. So the next time you want to change up your workout routine, grab your helmet and hop on your bike. Many cities even have trails dedicated to cyclists that make riding your bike safe and efficient.
Dancing
Dancing is an awesome exercise because it’s inclusive and can be done in so many different ways. Sure, there are dance fitness classes, but all you need is a little music and you’re well on your way to getting a fun and rewarding workout in. Dancing is awesome for weight loss, building endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. It keeps your brain and your body engaged in a fun activity and can be as rigorous or as gentle as you want it to be. And like all of the suggestions in this list, dancing can be done solo or with other people.
Feel The Burn At ATC Fitness
Looking for more suggestions or a dedicated place to work out? ATC Fitness is a full-service gym, complete with state-of-the-art workout equipment, hydromassage, and more. To begin to journey towards wellness, join today and learn why so many people choose us!
