Looking to Your Past To Revitalize Your Fitness Regimen

Mention the word “fitness” to some people, and their eyes glaze over, imagining boring slogs on the treadmill at the gym or sit-ups on the living room floor.   Putting together a physical fitness routine need not be boring or repetitive, as experts agree that any activity that gets the heart rate up for thirty minutes is good exercise.   Perhaps there is a physical activity you enjoyed in the past that you could take up again; think of your high school and college years – just because those days are past, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the same level of physical activity in your life today.

By chance, did you take a fencing class years ago?  Why not dig out that old fencing equipment and join a local fencing club?   Unusual sports often have committed adherents, which is good if you want steady partners with whom to exercise.   Clubs organize groups according to ability levels, so you don’t need to worry about being embarrassed or outmatched constantly.  Most clubs will offer rentals of fencing gear, but if you think you’ll be doing it long-term, by all means get your own gear.

Swimming is another fabulous choice for getting more physically active.   Swimming is particularly good for those who like low impact workouts that are easy on the joints. Swimming is extremely popular with those who enjoy exercise, so your local fitness club likely has plenty of class options. For those who are starting workouts after a long period of sedentary living, swimming is an ideal choice.

Wipe those illusions of Venus Williams from your eyes; you don’t need to play at the highest levels to play and enjoy tennis.  Even beginners or unskilled players can find great physical benefit to playing, since a missed ball is a ball that must be chased down!   Running all over the court is sure to get your heart rate up.   Lessons can be had for a reasonable price, especially at the local community clubs like the YMCA. If you don’t need lessons, then check with your local parks organization to find out where the free tennis courts are located.   Often they can be found at high schools, parks, and other areas.   If you find that you are short a partner for a game of tennis, why not try raquetball?   Raquetball is a sport you can play all on your own, since it is played in an enclosed court against a wall. 

Thinking creatively about how to maintain your fitness will help you find greater enjoyment from your workouts, while improving your physical fitness.