Has it been a while that you have been delaying on starting with your fitness routine?Have your running shoes been waiting for you to put them on since ages?Is that yoga mat of yours full of dust and dirt due to lack of usage?And all your mind does is constantly nag you to push away that ‘Guilt’ of not exercising daily?
Here are some simple and fun ways to get into the groove and get your fitness raga rolling!Just take out 30 minutes from your schedule and try these few exercises! You would not even have to go to the gym.
It’s only the first few days that are hard. So get out of your comfort zone and hit the floor!
Running
Running is one of the best ways to stay fit. It helps you to connect to the nature and build your health at the same time. Put your shoes on, hit the road and start exploring! If you are running for the first time, you would need some warm up and stamina building to do. Start by starting at a slow pace, throwing your body forward and keeping your knees light, slowly increasing your pace. While running, the sole of your foot must land headstrong on the ground, the body weight being thrown equally on the whole surface area of your foot. Do not strain your ankle or toes. Use kneecaps in order to keep your knees safe and avoid running on concrete surfaces.
Yoga
Having been present in India since ancient times, Yoga has also strengthened its presence worldwide. It is a way to connect to your body and mind, bringing in a very positive influence in your life. It consists of Breathing Exercises; Standing Postures, Sitting Postures, Supine Postures and Prone Postures. Breathing techniques while practising Yoga are very important.
Padmasana, Tadasana, Sarvangasana, Halasana, Ardha Matsyendrasana, Bhujangasana and Vajrasana are some of the popular Yoga Poses. Surya Namaskara followed by Pranayama is the best way to start your day if you are running on a busy schedule.
Pilates
Often confused with yoga, Pilates are a relatively new style of exercising popular mostly in the western countries. The Pilate exercises include controlled movements of body parts, like upper body, lower body, abdomen etc, done for 20 minute intervals. They help in improving flexibility, building muscle strength and improving body posture and strength endurance. These can be easily included in your busy schedule, targeting one body area in a day. A good utilization of your otherwise idle 20 minutes!
Calisthenics
Floor Exercises like lunges, squats, lower abs, mountain climbers, push ups, leg lifts, jumping jacks, planks, Step ups and Cross Cycling are very effective in toning your body. These exercises done in Circuits i.e set of any of these three exercises clubbed together repetitively at least three times is an effective and sure shot way to lose weight and get back in shape!
Aerobics
Get in your gym wear, put on your shoes, close the door of the room, turn on loud music and Start exercising to its tune! That is what Aerobics is all about. It’s rejuvenating to the core! If done with friends or in front of the mirror it’s even more fun! There are plenty of videos online to help you Get set and Go!
Skipping
An activity associated with your childhood, skipping rope is an effective way to stay fit. It is a good cardiovascular workout and can help you burn more than 650 calories an hour if done vigorously. There are various techniques like simple, criss-cross, double jump, alternating legs, high knees, running and skipping etc. If done in groups or with friends, it’s a pleasurable physical activity.
Brisk Walk
An early morning walk has been recommended for a good health and longevity since the beginning. Brisk walk along with deep breathing and stretching exercises of your arms, leg and neck will prove to be an energy elixir for you the entire day! Start walking and you will be so addicted that it will be difficult for you to get back home!
Jogging
Jogging is different from Running. Jogging is done at a constant pace maintaining an even breathing with short strides, while Running requires you to increase your pace gradually. It helps tone your legs, maintain Cardiovascular health and decreases effects of aging. It also helps you fight obesity and cancer, boosting your energy levels and concentration if done outdoors. Jogging outdoors is better than if done on a treadmill.
