It’s so important to make sure you’re moving your body daily. It can be hard in the winter months when it’s extra cold and the days are shorter, but you might be finding it especially hard right now during the pandemic to get motivated and venture outside for exercise. It can be so tempting to curl up on the couch with your favourite snacks and stay warm, but it’s an easy trap to fall into! It’s easy to forget how good you feel with a hit of endorphins from a HIIT workout, a yoga class or a hit of fresh air walking or running outside. The more you get away from an exercise routine, the harder it is to find time and motivation to add it back into your schedule.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, I’ve walked outside almost every day, sometimes more than once. It’s an easy way to not make any excuses: even if I’m tired, “too busy”, or just don’t feel like doing an intense cardio workout, I still walk. As soon as I’m out the door, it’s easy and I never regret going. I listen to a podcast, music or call a friend. It’s a great way to cross off a few things on my to-do list at the same time!
If you’re hesitating and finding it daunting to start an intense workout routine, my advice is to just START, and meet yourself wherever you’re at. Whether that’s a 10-min walk or jog, try it out and see how much better you feel. Take the pressure off yourself and simply enjoy getting outside. It does wonders for your mental health as much as your physical health. It helps reduce mindless snacking, gives you a boost of energy, and helps maintain a healthy weight.
Did you know? Exercise combats the effects of genes that promote weight gain. A Harvard study analyzed 32 genes that were related to obesity in over 12, 000 people and found that the impact of these genes was reduced by half in people who did a brisk walk for 60 mins a day.
If you find yourself sitting, snacking and feeling less than your best, try incorporating a walk after dinner or on your lunch break to boost your mental clarity, get some fresh air, and feel more positive.
Hope you get outside today!!
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