Spring Clean Your Fitness Routine

With the first signs of spring on the way, it’s natural that thoughts turn to getting outside and making the most of the warmer weather. While some find it easy to stick to their fitness routine year-round, that’s understandably not the case for everyone. Whatever the reason for a fitness hiatus – long work hours, lack of motivation, or the effects of the pandemic – spring is an ideal time to get back to exercise. While there are obvious physical benefits to a consistent fitness regime, there are also benefits for mental health. Exercise releases chemicals like endorphins and serotonin that improve your mood. It can also get you out in the world, help to reduce any feelings of loneliness and isolation*, and put you in touch with other people – all areas which are more important than ever in the current climate. Here are some of our favourite ways to refresh your workout routine for spring:

Let your pride take a backseat

If you have taken things a little slower this winter, that’s okay! Most people regress slightly during the colder winter months, even with a regular fitness routine. Ease into things by starting with a simple stretching or walking routine and build up by 10 minutes one week, 15 minutes the next until you’re up to a level you feel comfortable with. You’ll then be able to take it up a notch.

 

Commit to a plan

Whether it’s working out three times a week, increasing your running distance, or signing up to a race or challenge, committing to a plan can make all the difference. Set a goal and write it down. Make sure you mark off your progress along the way. Little rewards help reinforce improvement and can add up to big changes

 

Pair up

If group exercise is currently permitted in your state, enlist the help of a friend to increase motivation and help keep both of you accountable.

The Köhler Effect is a phenomenon that occurs when a person works harder as a member of a group than when working alone**. Essentially, we don’t want to let anyone down so we 2 perform at our peak to keep going!

Variety is the spice of life

A new season calls for a change. Perhaps you’ve always been a runner, or maybe swimming is your ‘thing’ but why not mix it up a little? Try a new barre or yoga class on Youtube, or even search for local studios offering online trials. If you enjoy it, why not look for local classes in your area and make it a regular part of your routine (if it’s safe and permitted to do so in your state). Your body will thank you for pushing yourself out of your comfort zone.

If you think your team could benefit from a little get-up-and-go this September, we offer exercise and fitness sessions that cater to all fitness levels.

Our group exercise sessions are a great way to promote physical activity and health and wellness while generating enthusiasm and enjoyment amongst your employees. With in-person, online, and pre-made video options available, there’s something to suit all on-site and remote team members. Get in touch or click here for further information and pricing.

*1 Exercise and mental health, Health Direct https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/exercise-and-mental-health

**2 Buddy up: The Kohler Effect applied to health games https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21808077/