Monday, November 22, 2010

What type of exerciser are you?

Good morning all! I find myself writing this because I think too many people are going about getting in shape the wrong way! How many times have you forced yourself onto a treadmill for a lack lustre cardio performance or just skipped your workout all together because your motivation has gone who knows where? I think just as in life you need to find your passions when it comes to fitness! Just like a fingerprint, no two exercisers are alike. So let's take a look at some different workout possibilities for different people.

If you're an introvert...

If the idea of being in a room full of people busting out grapevines or jumping jacks strikes terror in your heart then you want to try more solo activities. Any variation of walking/running/jogging is a great non threatening introduction into fitness. The only person your competing against is yourself and it's a great opportunity to clear your head. However, just because your less inclined to group fitness doesn't mean it isn't an option. Spinning classes are a great choice as they combine the fun of being in a group with your own little "biking bubble". 

If you're an extrovert...

You're an extrovert when you spend more time chatting by the exercise equipment than actually using it. Extrovert's can run into issues in a gym setting simply because all the time spent talking reduces the overall time spent sweating!  Some good choices for you are group classes of any description. Having an instructor keeping you focused is a perfect way to ramp up your results. Team sports are also a great choice, there are many adult leagues ranging from beginners to competitive to get involved in. Being a runner and an extrovert myself, the idea of running a long distance by myself would kill me. Fortunately there are even running clubs to join!

If you're adventurous...

There are so many great options to keep your fitness routines fresh and fun. Why not try a zumba class? Most gyms now are offering this dance inspired cardio class. Many on a drop-in basis. Living in the Fraser Valley, we are so fortunate to have a ton of great hiking trails around. Grab a few friends and some running shoes and hit the trails! Getting outside is a surefire way to increase your exercise enjoyment!

If you're needing to de-stress...

When life seems to be overwhelming, we often ditch our exercise routines. This is the perfect time to infuse your workouts with a more peaceful routine. Try a pilates or yoga class. Don't feel badly if your body is telling you to slow down! Take this time to infuse more walks into your day to day, add a good friend and the benefits increase!

Above all, remember what you liked to do when you were a kid. What sort of things brought you joy when you were younger. I firmly believe we need more playtime as adults. Get your body moving with a good game of tag, go water skiing (okay maybe not in November!) Get out to the ice rink and use the beginners bars if you have to:) So take some time to find your passions and get moving!

See you soon!
Sarah

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Hello All!

I had hoped this post would be filled with lots of fun info for you all but instead there's an itsy bit of bad news. It would seem that an unfortunate fall on a trail run has left my ankle out of commission for a few weeks and hence the fit fast classes will be delayed for the time being. As soon as I'm ready to go, I'll let you all know! Thank you for your patience. On a happier note, check back tomorrow for my article on finding the right type of exercise for your personality!

Have a great night!

Sarah

Monday, November 1, 2010

Exciting Days!

Hello all! It's is my absolute pleasure or should I say thrill to be writing this post! After being a stay-at-home mom for the last 6 years and putting my fitness career on the back burner for awhile, I'm excited to be focusing on it again. Hence the birth of Lighten Up Fitness! To start I'll be teaching a Monday, Wednesday, Friday 6am group fitness class but plans are in the works for a new year's expansion. Follow along with me on the blog to find out the latest class info, freebie home workouts, fitness product reviews, and all the latest and greatest the fitness world has to offer!

Have a fantastic day!
Sarah