By: Ariane L. Randolph
(Pictured Above)
Fitness and nutrition is about responsibility, personal ownership, accountability and proactive behavior. So how can you take control of your fitness? One way is to start where you are, at your home, in your own space. Working out at home is truly one of my favorite things to do.
So, the first thing to do is to pick the best time of day that works with your schedule. As you are getting started, try different times of the day. Some days will be different based on daily schedules. Early morning works best for me, plus early morning workouts provide great energy for the rest of the day, from the boost of endorphins and adrenaline. I would also recommend being as consistent as possible with the time, so that you develop a habit leading to a lifestyle change.
Second, make sure you have the proper clothing and shoes. For general workouts, it is best to wear something that fits well and keeps you cool. Choose the best workout clothes based on fabric, fit, and comfort. When shopping for the right shoes, make sure they fit the activity, and there is enough room for your feet to expand with your socks on. If it has been a while since your feet were measured for a workout shoe, make sure to do that. There is likely a size difference in the shoes you wear for dress or casual purposes, and the shoes you should be wearing for working out. Just getting my feet measured has made a world of difference in my workouts and how my feet feel when I am done.
Next, decide on how you will actually get your body moving. Will you do an old workout DVD from workout stints gone badly? Or, will you try some of the new on-demand and live material that can be found on YouTube, Daily Burn, P90X, Jillian, etc.? My personal favorite is Daily Burn.
You can also keep it simple by walking or jogging in your community. If you are taking the kids to the park, there are great free routines for playground and park workouts. If you sit at a desk for the majority of the day, try adding in desk workouts, take the stairs as often as possible; and walk, run, or jog during longer breaks and lunch.
These are just some suggestions. The goal is to keep yourself safe, have fun and know that you don’t have to spend a lot of money or time, on your way to a fitter lifestyle.
– Ariane L. Randolph – wife, mother and ecoentreprenuer