Written for MIAMI MIDTOWN MAGAZINE
Common thoughts when considering getting into shape:
“I want to get in shape, but I don’t have time.”
“There’s just too much going on at work for me to exercise.”
“I have no energy to go to the gym.”
These are some of the most common reasons people give for not wanting to break a sweat on a regular basis. Fitness has been a huge part of my life for decades now, but I realize fitting exercise into a busy schedule can be a major obstacle for some. If there’s one thing I’ve learned through it all, however, it’s “If you’re looking for an excuse, you’ll find one!”
Getting in shape
Getting in shape requires just as much of a mental dedication as it does a physical one. I have always loved the feeling of working out, so motivation has never been an issue for me. I do realize, though, that not everyone is as drawn to the gym as I am, even at 59 years young. However, EVERYONE has 30 minutes available for exercise throughout the course of a day.
That’s all it takes. Really. If you want to live a healthy lifestyle, one that will help you consistently feel better in more ways than one, you need half an hour of concerted effort per day. Everyone has their own scheduling limitations, but you can absolutely set aside 30 minutes; all you have to do is put forth the effort.
You have to want it. You have to REALLY want it!
Make It Fun!
Some people can simply knock out 100 pushups, sit-ups, and jumping jacks whenever they have free time. They do that throughout the day, and that’s how they get their results. I applaud these people, but that’s not me. I need something a little more active!
Boxing has been my thing for a while. I have been a part of several boxing gyms, including Mickey Demos Boxing Gym and CKO Miami Kickboxing, and I will soon be a member of Tap Out Fitness. Boxing is the most comprehensive form of exercise, in my opinion, as it involves several muscle groups and keeps your mind active as you focus on different combinations. But most importantly, it’s just fun!
What type of physical activity do you respond well to? Did you play any sports as a child? I loved volleyball, tetherball, and lots of other sports that require the use of my hands as a kid. This is part of what led me to boxing, and what got me hooked after I took that first class. All you have to do is find the type of workout you respond well to; Do THAT activity. Do that as often as you can. The results will come!
Mornings Are My Time
I’m a morning person when it comes to exercise. I love it because I don’t have to worry about training for the rest of the day, which eliminates any interference with work or my social life. Plus, it makes me feel incredible and ready to handle anything!
Mornings aren’t for everyone, I get it. Some people have more energy at night, while others peak in the middle of the day. Whatever time you feel you are at your best, make that the time to fit in physical activity. This makes it much easier to build a healthy routine.
No Time Like The Present
The more you put off exercise, the harder it is to develop your regimen. The first step is the hardest, as with many things in life. After that though, the results start showing themselves. And let me tell you, seeing the fruits of all your hard work is one addicting feeling! This is the feeling that will carry you to where you want to be, just like it’s carried me throughout my 20s, 30s, 40s, and now my 50s.
“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” Remember that quote as you consider whether or not to get your 30 minutes of exercise in. Your body is your home. Be good to it, and it will be good to you. So take that first step. Show how much you want it. Dive into the world of fitness, the water is fine!