The new normal…
Habits and routines are changing. For some it is creating a lot of stress and frustration… But it should be a time of excitement! Think about it, when was the last time you could totally reinvent your lifestyle? Many of us are looking for ways to change, but then do little to make those changes. Now, we are being asked to reinvent ourselves, our habits, our lifestyles. Why not use this time to create a workout routine and become the healthiest version of yourself possible?
Yeah, we all know that working out has tons of positive benefits for your body including weight loss, stress relief, improvements with your mood, energy, muscle toning, and stamina. It’s important to exercise… that is a no brainer. But how do you make it your new normal?
Gyms are closed. “The gym is only for fit people…” is no longer a valid excuse. And the best part is that people are getting creative with their workouts and now, more than ever, willing to share how they are getting fit. Now is the time to figure out what workouts work best for you, whether it is kickboxing, lifting, zumba, yoga, bootcamp style workouts and more. You can find all types of programs (even ones that local gyms offer) on Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube.
Here is Club Kickbox’s Youtube channel to check out what we are doing…
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLut_GPEw-nL6vaXnKA0FoNi2TSjR6JAMf&fbclid=IwAR0V7nw6QflZP7YOrI2WM2P2Q92ciacj8Nhp6ZCsFbm348G3hlrujwSGtZQ
So, how do you make working out part of your new normal.
1.) Set a small goal- maybe a goal that lasts a few weeks. For example, it could be a challenge (a lot of local gyms including Club Kickbox have set up challenges during this time. Join one for a little added accountability and community!) Another example would be to work on your flexibility, lose 5 -10 lbs, managing your stress, or building your stamina.
2.) Once you have a goal, create a plan. Most trainers say that you should workout 3 days a week. Dig out your calendar. Pick what 3 days and time that would work each week. Treat these dates like your meeting times or appointments for the week. Don’t skip them!! I mean you wouldn’t skip out on your boss would you?
3.) Plan your workouts to last a minimum of 20 minutes.
4.) Figure out what workouts will work best for you. You can Youtube many different program including ClubKickbox classes, dance classes, yoga classes and more. Feel free to experiment a little. Doing this now, you know where you want to invest your time when gyms open back up.
5.) Expect your workouts to not be perfect. Let’s get real, kids will distract you or want to play along, the dog will bark. Make it a time for some fun. With the new normal, it is hard to eliminate distractions. So embrace them. Allow the kids or your partner to join in, laugh, let loose a little. Use this as a time to forget about all the other crazy in the world.
6.) Create a fun playlist. Music can play a huge difference in your mood and how you workout. Make a playlist that will motivate you to get moving and have some fun.
7.) Order a new workout outfit online! When you get new clothes you want to wear them, right! Put on those new clothes and get moving!
8.) Get a buddy involved. Having some accountability allows your workouts to be social in a world that is asking you to distance. With software like Zoom, you can even workout together miles apart. And post workout stay on the line to chat with your buddy for a few! 🙂
9.) Celebrate your successes., even if it is just completing a 20 minute workout. We all need small wins these days. Give yourself some credit. Pat yourself on the back. Feel proud and accomplished. You did it, and that is awesome!
10.) Finally, at the end of the week, evaluate how you did. How can you make the next week better? What do you want to accomplish? How can you improve your routine? What small hiccups should you be prepared for? What have you learned? What is the next week going to look like?
Yes, our routines are sometimes an experiment of sorts. It is a puzzle to figure out what works. But now is the best time to add an exercise routine to your new normal. Let’s start this routine today, and continue it for the rest of our lives. Your health will thank you!
