Working out can be a dreadful task. Sometimes it’s not the first thing on our to-do list, but if we can start to make time for it, it does have a lot of benefits. Benefits that are both physical and mental. So, I decided to try it out. I started doing 30 minute workouts for 4 days each week for two weeks. Here is what happened:
I started to feel more energized and motivated. Not only motivated to continue working out but with the rest of my daily activities. Moreover, I started to notice other aspects such as sleeping better at night, as well as my self-esteem, improving.
Furthermore, I started feeling more confident even though I haven’t seen any results from working out at that point. It takes time and dedication to start seeing results such a weight loss and muscle gain. However, it only takes a couple of times to feel better about yourself and seeing your confidence rise from the work that you are putting in and the goals you are accomplishing.
Whether it’s doing squats in front of the TV at home or lifting weights at the gym, working out can be beneficial in many ways. It has helped me strengthen my perseverance, stamina, and discipline.
My goal, like many people, was to build muscle and enhance my strength all while losing weight. However, it wasn’t until I started to work out consistently that I realized it also improved my mood and helped me with my brain health. Working out increases your heart rate, which promotes the flow of blood and oxygen to your brain as well as gets more oxygen to your lungs.
Even a 30 minute exercise session has begun to help with my stress, whether it is getting my mind off a certain situation because I’m concentrating on something else or by the fact that working out promotes the production of feel-good endorphins.
I’ve also noticed that when I’m feeling lethargic and not in the mood to exercise, it actually boosts my mood to work out — even if it’s just in the living room at home.
Something that pushes me to exercise is going to the gym with two of my friends. So not only are we working out, but it’s also nice to catch up and be social. The biggest thing I’ve noticed is when I work out, I don’t have as much guilt as I would have for having a second helping of dinner or for sitting on the couch and binge-watching Netflix longer than I should.
After you get passed the first week of going to the gym consistently or working out in general, it gets a lot easier. Sometimes getting into a routine is the hardest part, so push yourself to start and the rest will follow naturally. Doing 30 minute workouts each day can be anything. You don’t have to go to the gym every day to get the results you are looking for. You can switch it up from lifting weights, running, cycling, swimming, hiking, dancing, and even just walking. Just being active is a step in the right direction.
Featured image from @mastercowley via Pexels.
When it comes to cardiovascular exercise, there are several machines to choose from. Treadmills are a popular choice for those who enjoy running or walking indoors. They provide a great way to get your heart rate up and burn calories without having to brave the outdoor elements. Elliptical trainers offer a low-impact alternative to running, making them ideal for those with joint issues. And stationary bikes provide a challenging workout while being easy on the knees and ankles. exercise machines