The worst part of the weather this year is that it has caused a lot of us to do drastic things this winter. A lot of folks have relegated themselves to the treadmill, indoor track, or *gasp*, even the couch!
Well, today marks the first day of spring, and the weather is improving, in spite of the snow still on the ground. Now is the time for you to start taking back your fitness, and get into a routine again so you're ready for when the nice weather hits!
Here are a few tips on how to get back outside, or just active again:
- Pick and activity you like - if you don't like going to the gym, what's the point of getting a gym membership? Do something that you enjoy, whether it's running, boot camp, swimming, walking, or something else. You're more likely to stay active if you actually enjoy what you're doing.
- Sign up for a class - having someone else plan your workout can make getting active much easier. You just need to show up, and do what you're told!
- Do it in a group - you're more likely to stick with an activity if you're doing it with a group of other people. Knowing they're waiting to see you there can be the motivation some people need. Signing up for a gym class, a running clinic, or just connecting with an open run time can be the kick to get out the door we need (**store promotion: we have new clinics kicking off April 22nd at 6 pm. Find details at www.therunningworks.com. We also have open groups that go out Saturday morning at 8 am, and Tuesday/Thursday at 6 pm.)
- Do it with a friend - a group of people you don't know not enough? Join a group with a friend! Someone who can give you a call when you're waffling on showing up, and help kick your butt out the door. If you join a class together, it's even that much more motivation!
- Schedule your activity - life seems to be getting busier and busier for everyone. Adding your active time to your calendar is a good reminder to stay active, and ensure you get out the door. Signing up for a class is a great way to ensure you set that time aside.
- Set an achievable goal - it's easy to set a goal. What can be hard is achieving that goal. If you've just started running, don't try to run a marathon this spring. Set out to do a 5km or 10km race. By setting achievable goals, you can keep your motivation by reaching them.
- Sign up for an event - the first two local races of the year are coming up fast! Sign up for the Marden Marathon 5k, 10k, or half marathon (April 12th), or the Billy Taylor 5km or 15km (April 27th), and get out the door!
- Get some new gear - sometimes, all we need is a little retail therapy to help us get out the door. A new outfit or accessory can be just the trick to kick start the fitness routine. A new toy like a Garmin GPS or Polar Loop can give you a good excuse to get out the door, while a new spring outfit can always raise our spirits.
