How to Talk yourself into Exercising

exeeWe all have those days where we feel like we can not face exercising or motivate ourselves to go to the gym.  I put on work-out clothes every morning.  Typically, I eat my main meal in the AM.  Eating makes me feel energized.  I start training about a half an hour to forty five minutes before eating.  Generally,  I work-out in the gym, however if I am feeling un-motivated I will try something different like walking a scenic pathway.

Setting a timer to do something enjoyable before exercising can be helpful to you.  After a training session, set aside time for a relaxing activity, as well. Remember, we feel differently – everyday.  Do what your body can handle- today!

Cheers,

Gina

 

How to make Walking Fun as the Weather gets Warmer

funexercise-outsideBy adding variety to walking you can intensify your caloric output and create more fun at the same time.  The more you alter your work-out program, the better your results will be.  I really love walking on the beach because of the beauty aspect of it.  The soft, warm sand will challenge your balance and thereby engage in many other muscle movements.

There are numerous advantages to changing up the way you walk.  Walking in the pool or ocean shifts the way your limbs move.  The water against your body creates resistance as if you are walking with weights on.  It is as if you are walking in slow motion which requires more effort.  Overall, it is just wonderful being outside more.  The outdoors make training a more engaging and sensual experience.  Truly, there are so many opportunities to incorporate outdoor fitness.  Have a great time discovering ways to make walking exciting!

Cheers,

Gina

 

How to Push through Exercise Resistence

851f72070653835a705c32de1e204439There are times when I am on the elliptical and all I think about is that I want to stop or become complacent with my work-out. When you start to meet exercise resistance a good strategy is to stay in the moment. A tried and true method of staying present is to target your breathing. For Example, notice how long your inhales and exhales are. You may notice that the air going into your nostrils feels cool, while the air on your exhales feels warmer.

In focusing on your breathing instead of your thoughts you can remain more involved in your training. Another focal point can be your form. Pay close attention to how each of your limbs feel. Mentally scan your body for points of tension. Imagine breathing into those points of tension to give yourself a more relaxed stride. By clearing your mind and centering on your form and posture in the present moment you become less pre-occupied with negative thoughts. Never, ever resist a wonderful work-out!

Cheers,

Gina

Good Habits for a Flatter Tummy

Flat-stomachEliminating carbs goes a long way to slimming your belly. There is a reason why people call a protruding stomach a beer belly. Regular aerobic activity will also help to trim that problematic area. Exercising your core will tighten the muscles to give you that sculpted look. It is important, however that you train in a proper way. One way to learn proper form for core muscles is to take a pilates class from a certified instructor.

Exercising abdominal muscles improperly can give you a poor result. Maintaining good posture goes a long way toward helping you strengthen your abs. The quality of your exercise is more important than the quantity. Keep plugging away!!!

Cheers,

Gina

Juggling Life & Exercise

A young woman juggling the management of time. Isolated on a white background.

One of the greatest challenges of having a disciplined exercise regimen is figuring out how to incorporate working out while maintaining a balanced social, work and family life. We tend to be more consistent with activities and routines we do on a daily basis. A simple example would be taking a shower in the morning. When it comes to training, finding that ideal time and place can be challenging. Take me for instance, during the early afternoon I noticed that my energy is at its highest and this is the best time to train. For others, the time before work (during the AM) may be more preferable because exercise can energize you for a long work day.

Setting and maintaining realistic goals that you can manage is necessary. Be creative, you do not always need a lot of space and time for your fitness routine. Everyone knows that exercising can be physically and mentally difficult, but always continue to do your best!!!

Cheers,

Gina

Why You Should Start Exercising

motivational-exercise-quotesI started exercising to improve the quality of my health. I specifically wanted to drop weight and discovered it has many benefits, as well. By training and losing half of my size I eliminated sleep apnea, decreased blood sugar, reduced high cholesterol, and my acid reflux as well as eczema vanished.

I feel more energetic and have a better well-being. I now have a stronger sense of self-worth. Naturally, I feel that I have a greater muscle tone and stamina. In the past, it would be challenging to walk around the block and now these routines are automatic and easy. There is also research findings that aerobic exercise helps with memory functioning and cognitive ability. If you want to ensure your memory and health into your retirement years.. keep working-out. May you continue going strong!

Cheers,

Gina