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Fit Factor: 8 things to try in '08
Posted on Jan 11th 2008 6:00AM by Martha EdwardsWelcome to 2008. It's you're year to get fit this time around, I can feel it. So what are you waiting for? We're coming up on the third week of January. Most of us are back to the grind at work, so let's get back to the grind of the gym too. Or if you're just starting out, start looking around for gyms or fitness programs in your area that fit with your schedule and lifestyle.
Not sure what to do? Here are some suggestions of things you should try in '08Dance. Fitness should be fun, and what's more fun that rocking out to some favourite tunes? Dance is the perfect foray into fitness for someone who's starting out, and it's also a great way to liven up a stale fitness routine. Classes are plentiful -- take your pick from salsa, belly dancing, hip hop, ballet and even (wink wink nudge nudge) exotic dancing.
Weights. For those of you spend your gym time on the cardio machines, I dare you to venture into the uncharted territory of the weight room. Lifting weights has a number of benefits -- it burns lots of calories, boosts your metabolism and helps you tone up overall.
Kidsplay. Most of us had little trouble keeping active when we were kids. Because, in those days, it wasn't consider fitness -- it was just plain, good old fun. Re-capture that feeling by getting outside and doing something you used to love -- jump on the trampoline, go sledding, slap on a pair of rollerskates or rollerblades or spend the day hula hooping. Really, the options are endless.
Fusion Fitness. If you're too busy to take up more than one activity, consider signing up for a fusion class that combines two styles of fitness into one. My personal faves? Yogalates (Yoga and Pilates) and Cardio Kickboxing (aerobics and martial arts)
Team sports. Meet people, have fun and get fit all at the same time by signing up for a team sport. You don't need to be super-competitive--there are plenty of rec leagues that are looking for players of all levels. And you have your pick of activities -- Chances are, there are dodgeball, soccer, basketball, volleyball, baseball and hockey teams where you live, and there might even be some more diverse team sports like roller derby.
Running. Running's an oldie but a goodie. Yeah, I know you think you're not a runner, but give it a chance. Sign up for a Couch to 5k program and see if it doesn't change your life.
Suspension. Crunch gym is calling suspension classes the next big thing for 2008, according to this article. Yes, we're talking about trapeze-type suspension here. Exhilarating or frightening? Find out for yourself.
Fitness that Fits. The bottom line is this: You need to find something that fits your lifestyle, and that you don't mind doing. Also? Try to fit fitness into every aspect of your regular life. For instance, try walking your errands instead of driving. Whatever fits works.
Not sure what to do? Here are some suggestions of things you should try in '08Dance. Fitness should be fun, and what's more fun that rocking out to some favourite tunes? Dance is the perfect foray into fitness for someone who's starting out, and it's also a great way to liven up a stale fitness routine. Classes are plentiful -- take your pick from salsa, belly dancing, hip hop, ballet and even (wink wink nudge nudge) exotic dancing.
Weights. For those of you spend your gym time on the cardio machines, I dare you to venture into the uncharted territory of the weight room. Lifting weights has a number of benefits -- it burns lots of calories, boosts your metabolism and helps you tone up overall.
Kidsplay. Most of us had little trouble keeping active when we were kids. Because, in those days, it wasn't consider fitness -- it was just plain, good old fun. Re-capture that feeling by getting outside and doing something you used to love -- jump on the trampoline, go sledding, slap on a pair of rollerskates or rollerblades or spend the day hula hooping. Really, the options are endless.
Fusion Fitness. If you're too busy to take up more than one activity, consider signing up for a fusion class that combines two styles of fitness into one. My personal faves? Yogalates (Yoga and Pilates) and Cardio Kickboxing (aerobics and martial arts)
Team sports. Meet people, have fun and get fit all at the same time by signing up for a team sport. You don't need to be super-competitive--there are plenty of rec leagues that are looking for players of all levels. And you have your pick of activities -- Chances are, there are dodgeball, soccer, basketball, volleyball, baseball and hockey teams where you live, and there might even be some more diverse team sports like roller derby.
Running. Running's an oldie but a goodie. Yeah, I know you think you're not a runner, but give it a chance. Sign up for a Couch to 5k program and see if it doesn't change your life.
Suspension. Crunch gym is calling suspension classes the next big thing for 2008, according to this article. Yes, we're talking about trapeze-type suspension here. Exhilarating or frightening? Find out for yourself.
Fitness that Fits. The bottom line is this: You need to find something that fits your lifestyle, and that you don't mind doing. Also? Try to fit fitness into every aspect of your regular life. For instance, try walking your errands instead of driving. Whatever fits works.
