Finding the perfect workout type

All of us have different routines, schedules and deadlines. We also have different interests, hobbies and tastes. So how do we keep fit and healthy if not in our own way? Now I’m not suggesting we should act like solitary wolves and purposefully do what others avoid. I think we should consider what we like to do when we are thinking of setting up a new workout routine.

Here are some tips that can help you understand what the best workout might be for you:

• When do you want to work out? Whether you are a shift worker or you are in the office from 9 to 5 Monday to Friday, you have to set up some time during the week for your workouts. Improvised workouts are great, but they should only really be an addition to your scheduled workouts. This is because if you plan, you are more likely to do it even if you don’t feel like it.

• Do you like company? Answering this question will help you narrow down the different things you can do for you workouts. For example, if working out with someone motivates you or you do not mind having company, you should consider team workouts like doing sports or even just running together. If working out with someone gives you the chills and you’d rather not share your sweat, at least you know to skip the salsa-dancing or the zumba class.

• What do you like to do? Whether it’s dancing, being outdoors or doing cardio in the gym, consider doing something you truly enjoy. Life is too short to spend your workout time doing something you do not enjoy. There must be something you like, as there are countless possibilities. If you like being indoors with company, consider gym classes. In the summer time swimming, hiking or taking long walks might also be put into your workout routine. Know what you want out of it (i.e. lose weight, just stay healthy or work out some particular muscles) and go for it. If your aims do not fit with what you enjoy, compromise by alternating exercises you enjoy to exercises that help you achieve your goal.

• What CAN you do? Unfortunately for different reasons we all have types of exercise we can do and types of exercises we cannot do. This could be due to injuries or any other medical condition. For example, if you have heart disease, it might be best to consult your doctor before scheduling your exercise routine. This is because you might need to monitor your exercise very carefully. For more information on this you can read this article.

• What’s convenient? We all want to be superheroes and aim to go to the best workout place ever –whether that is a park we really like, or a gym we adore. However, let’s face it: we are constrained by our home and work locations. Instead of aiming to go to the faraway marvellous place and then ending up cancelling for different reasons, find a place that is nearer your house. You’ll be able to stick to your workout plan more easily and you will go more regularly as the lazy person inside you will not be able to stop you from going so close.

And….change! Or not. Whatever you choose, stick to it. However, do so until you are bored of it. Stick to your workout for at least two weeks and then if you get bored of it after that, switch to something else. If you then like your second workout much more and you want to keep it going for a while, do so. As long as you keep yourself interested, you work out regularly and you feel good, nothing should stop you from changing your workout around or keeping it the same.