
To Run or Not To Run?
It makes sense to believe the saying “If you always do the same thing you will get always get the same results” in other words, without change no new results will be achieved. Not everyone wants or needs to lose weight but everyone does need to stay fit if they want to have the best possible chance of living a healthy life.
If you are not happy with the way you look or feel then it’s time to start making some changes.
Change is not always easy, bad habits die hard and we often hang onto beliefs that we would like to be true but are in fact hype or myths.
One common belief is that running is the best way to burn fat.
If you already run but are not getting outstanding results then it is time to try some bodyweight cardio instead.
What is bodyweight cardio? Exercises that use only your own bodyweight and increase your heart rate.
What are the benefits?
- Better for your joints resulting in less injury than running
- Great for your overall strength and core conditioning
- Excellent for your movement and mobility skills
- Requires no equipment and very little space
- More effective for fat loss than running and in less time
Here is a short list of exercises: If you have ever worked with me then these will be familiar!
Alternating Lunges
Jumping Jacks
Mountain climbers
Squats – all types
Punching
Press-Ups
Short bursts and a mixture of these types of exercises might well be the change you need to make.
If on the other hand you fancy taking up running…..
Not all of the benefits of running are physical. Running can provide a noticeable boost to your confidence and self-esteem. By setting and achieving small goals, you can help improve your self-esteem and that will leave you feeling much happier.
Stress
Stress can actually cause a number of health and mood problems. It can also diminish appetite and sleep quality. When you are stressed or feeling down, the last thing you are likely to want to do is to get up and go for a run!
I can tell you from experience and all the data on those feel-good hormones (endorphins) that get secreted as you exercise that it only takes a few minutes of running to improve your mood. The hardest step is always the one that takes you out of the door!
The science behind why running is so incredibly beneficial to the body, mind, and spirit is confusing so I like to think of it like this:
It is precious time to enjoy the environment that I live in.
I notice so many things that simply pass me by as I rush about my daily life.
When I get hot on a freezing cold day, I have defied the elements and it feels great!
Even short runs can leave you feeling more energized, more focused, and better able to enjoy all that life has to offer.
Shocking your muscles by challenging them to something new is a great way stay on top of the game.
Enjoy whatever you decide to do and if that is attending my classes then fortunately for you I do the shocking for you! If you always attend the same class try a different one, add another one or mix it up a bit, oh and of course, run there!