If you have ever tried to get intouch with me in the morning, you will likely find me in the middle of a workout. I like to start my day with movement, whether it’s a brisk “wog” (aka: walk/jog) or indoor cycling combined with lifting weights.
Here are a few reasons to get up and move (even if you are not a morning person):
You will enhance your metabolism. Your body burns more calories after your workout, even when you're sitting at a desk or driving in your car.
Consistency. If you exercise in the evening you run the risk of making excuses for not working out. And there goes your time to get a workout in. Or you may simply feel too tired to exercise by the end of a long day. But, in the morning there is nothing to distract you from getting down to business. Exercise will be your first priority and it will get done. And it can help to increase your energy level throughout the entire day.
Improve your physical and mental energy. Movement can be a tremendous source of energy, something many of us need when we start our day. And it can also help to improve your cognitive abilities and your memory.
Reach your fitness goal. Committing to something (in this case morning exercise) that requires sacrifice (in this case sleeping in) creates a compelling argument in your mind that says, "it better be worth it!".
Love your life! Exercise is a trigger that releases endorphins, our built-in happiness drug. Movement can help to reduce stress and improve your mood.
Unfortunately exercise can be abused and it’s important to understand the importance of having a healthy relationship with exercise. Studies have actually shown that individuals who workout to lose weight are more likely to hit the snooze button than those who workout for pleasure.
So what are some ways you can start moving intuitively?
Listen to how your body signals movement. Do you notice that after sitting a while you get the urge to stand up and stretch? Maybe you feel a little restless and feel like you have pent up energy. Maybe other days your body is sore or fatigued and you need some rest.
Be present in your workouts. Pay attention to how your body feels to prevent injury or pain. A good workout may have moments of discomfort, but pain is a sign we need to stop what we're doing.
Move in a way you LOVE! Exercise should be fun! Vary your movement! Variety can keep things interesting and also helps prevent injury by not overusing the same muscles.
Find ways to move throughout the day. Exercise doesn't have to be black and white. You can incorporate more gentle movement rather than always do a vigorous workout. For example, if you don’t feel like doing a long workout at the gym you can go on a walk or do some gentle stretching. Even just standing up from a desk at work can provide health benefits.
I have to be honest with you, I don’t always feel like getting up and working out. When I make myself “exercise a smile'' as I put on my exercise clothes, I am usually able to bring fun and energy into my workout and my day. How can you add more joy to your movement today? I am here to help so contact me at rachel@livehealthynyc.com