Finding your fitness edge
Ever have one of those moments where you find a new way to do a job, task, or chore, which makes it easier, more fun, or just better somehow? Maybe it’s something as simple as using a new or better tool, partnering up with someone you work well with, or modifying your environment with music, light, or quietness and darkness, that gives you the edge to get your task done more effectively. Well, the same concept very much applies to exercise.
What do you do to make your workouts as effective and enjoyable as possible? Maybe you listen to music, or lift in front of a mirror? The fact is there are many ways to tweak-up your workouts to get the most out of them, and make them as enjoyable as possible … encouraging you to work out even more. So let’s talk about some things that can make your exercise routine easier.
Perhaps the best aid of all: music. While headphones are great, I personally find listening to a stereo or boom-box (i.e. not through headphones) is even better. There’s just something about the music really cranking that works for me. Obviously I can only do this at home, but the point is that it works for me and I do it when I can. The kind of music makes a difference too, while fast paced dance or hip-hop can be good, sometimes the slower paced stuff is good too. Experiment and find what works best for you. If need be spend the time (and money) to get the right music, radio, CD player, MP3 device, etc. It really can make all the difference.
Another option to consider is finding a workout buddy. If you usually workout alone, think about finding someone to workout with on the contrary if you usually workout with someone, consider exercising alone. Test it out and see what works for you. I have found workout buddies helpful in the past because it gives you accountability, support, and a little competition never hurt anyone. On the other hand, if the person you are working out with does not have similar goals and interests, it can be a distraction. There is no right or wrong answer. The point is finding what motivates you and gives you that edge.
Another important factor in optimizing your workouts is finding the right gym. A few important things to consider are location, cost, and a positive environment. Try not to weigh so much on cost. If you find a gym that you absolutely love but may be a little more than you wanted to spend I say go for it. What are you saving if you choose a gym that you don’t love as much for less and as a result may go less. I find that it is important to choose a gym that is either close to your home or work. The more convienent the better. What good is it to choose a gym that is 20 minutes a way from home? The further the drive the more chances you have to find excuses not to go. I know I may be sounding a little blasé about money, but the point is none of these changes have to be permanent. The key is to find what works best for you. A positive environment is important too as I explained in my previous post entitled Choosing a gym that is right for you.
Even if you love working out at the gym, like I normally do, there is still something to be said for being able to get a good workout at home now and then. Purchasing a quality piece of equipment for home, like an elliptical, treadmill, or stationary bike can be a great investment. Also adding some hand weights, ankle weights, or bands, which are inexpensive, will help maximize your workout. A few years ago we bought a commercial quality elliptical. I love it because it is useful for days when the weather is bad, I am short on time, or when I get tired of going to the gym. Working out at home isn’t for everyone. Give it a try to see what environment works best for you to find that edge.
Finally wearing sneakers and exercise outfits that you like and are comfortable can help you find your edge as well. If you really are into wearing cute fitness coordinates then treat yourself now and then by going to your favorite store and buying a few new ones to add to your wardrobe. If you do not feel and look your best then you are not going to exercise your best. For me, I am all about sneakers. So every 4-6 months I purchase a new pair of Asics. It may be in my head, but first workout with those new shoes on is always a great one.
Sometimes we go through the motions in life. All it takes is just tweaking or fine tuning something just the slightest bit that can make all the difference.
Stay Strong,
Kristi
20 Comments
Reader Comments (20)
Lots of good ideas to get that fitness edge! One thing that I find very helpful is to figure out what time of day works best for you. I recently discovered that I enjoy running at night, and I know that I enjoy running in the morning, but I generally hate running during the day. This knowledge has really helped me to keep up with my training.
Great post Kristi! I am evaluating my workout for change due to hormone issues & just by "listening" to my bod, I know it is time. I change the regular workouts al the time & every workout but I think it is time for a bigger change. Still thinking about it.
I am a sole workout person & I also love the gym weights so I know I don't want to change that but lots of options open & your post is a great help to all!
AND YES, the shoes are so important! I wish I could afford new clothes more often. It does make you feel good!
Great post Kristi! It's soooo true. I was shaking my head and nodding in agreement as I read it all :)
Music is real important, but I'm not one for a workout buddy. BUT, I am going to get outdoors with the kids more. It's time to put up the badminton net. (So my family is a workout buddy afterall, huh?)
Great tips Kristi!! I am all about the music, especially when I'm doing intervals! I love really loud edgy music when I'm lifting heavy too! So motivating!
I find that at different points in my life (and with different kinds of activities) I need different "edges". Some days the music is all that will keep my going; other days, I'd completely slack off without a buddy. It's nice to mix and match the edges!
and sometimes its SO OK to go through the motions for a bit huh? :)
as long as youre going.
I am a weird mix of gymLOVE (weights. would NEVER do em at home even if I had the best stuff) and gymLOATHE (cardio. Ill skip it before Ill do it at the gym).
Im an enigma ;)
Great advice! Music has made the biggest difference for me! I can be dragging along, thinking I'm about to DIE and some new song comes on my player and suddenly I'm all zippy again. :)
I don't lovelovelove my gym, but it's hard to avoid it since it's around the corner from my house. Just sitting there. Taunting me. Waiting.
Those are really great ideas. I like the one about listening to loud music via boom box. I am a headphones gal, but I can just imagine how energized you get from the loud music. I have always found my workouts are the best when I have a buddy (not just any buddy, but someone who is on the same fitness track I am on-no lazies!!) and good music. I dread the days when I forget my iPod.
I also love the idea of purchasing equipment for your home workouts. I have a few sets of free weights and have been dying to get either a treadmill or elliptical for the house. I know the feeling of sometimes just not wanting to go the gym but still doing something!!
these are all great tips + reminders! i get so stuck in my usual routine that i forget to do new things or things that might re-energize me.
Great post Kristi!!! enjoyed it.
I so want an elliptical or treadmill at home!
Workout buddies are great...when you don't scare them away :-( Running with my husband really makes me push myself harder. Also my not so secret crush running partner the C25k podcast man *sigh* and his edgy music. Now I just have to apply this to bushwalking somehow and I'm set.
Just wanted to let you know that I have rediscovered my love of lettuce (well baby spinach) and Joe has too! Thanks for your fabulous blog! And I know we need to plan a trip to Philly so that I can work out with you and figure out what my edge is. :-) I'm so lazy/crazy busy right now!!!
That's so exciting you teach your first class on Friday!!! Good luck girl!:)
music empowers me. when i'm stressed, i crank the heavy metal, and let my body SCREAM out my workouts, and if i'm in a good mood, i turn on the salsa/dance/pop music and dance/zumba/hiphopab my way to sweating.
I worked out at a gym for the first time while on vacation. I am a terrible noob and was nervous the whole time.
Question about gym etiquette: When a sweaty male mouth breather stands next to you and says "Good workout, huh?", is that a desperate pickup line? I feel I might have been rude when I just kinda nodded and walked away.
Oh gosh, I don't think I'm cut out for the gym.
Camevil: haha. no that was not rude at all. may have been a pickup line. I hate when sweaty men come near. I look for the piece of equipment far away from everyone else. sorry to see you didn't like it any better.
So nicely put Kristi & I loved the picture.
I definitely agree with finding the right workout clothes can give you your edge back. Makes you feel fresh & new and ready to conquer the {fitness} world!
Where are you? *drums fingers on desk and hums absently*