No Trainer? No Problem!
June 24, 2012 // Fitness
Exercise is intimidating enough as it is, so trying to approach this complex and specific activity on your own can scare off almost anyone. No matter what your excuses are, there is no reason to avoid exercise. With the rise of fitness centers and programs, the only thing you have to do is walk through the door (and sometimes that isn’t even necessary!). There are many different routes you can take to incorporate exercise without having the slightest clue of what you are doing.
Without question, the best approach to exercise is the presence of another person. The use of a personal trainer is the most effective way to get fit and stay injury-free. Unfortunately, time and finances can limit our ability to use this service. Just because you can’t use personal training does not mean you can’t get into shape. There are many options for people looking to improve their fitness who cannot use a trainer. Here are some examples:
Group Classes
The growth of exercise within the general public came largely from the birth of group exercise classes. These classes are great because they cater to every fitness level, incorporate peer support, and are led (usually) by a fitness professional. Most importantly, they are FREE.
Almost every gym has a flexible schedule that offers classes throughout the day. Classes can range from cardiovascular, resistance training, flexibility, Pilates, boot camp, yoga, relaxation, elderly population, pre- and post-natal, and many others.
Some communities even offer free exercise classes for locals and residents. This is a great way to be proactive with your exercise and health.
Technology
Currently, there are an estimated 350 million people using a smartphone. Furthermore, there are an estimated 252,894 health and fitness apps available. Of those, 5,679 are available on the iPhone and iPad. Now you really have no excuse not to manage your fitness.
There are apps that have every exercise included within the app. They give you the body part(s) that are being exercised, include a detailed description of the exercise, and even show you a simulated video of the movement.
There are apps that allow you to video conference with a fitness professional while you work out. Imagine that data bill!
There are apps that outline every workout for you, with detailed protocols. There are apps that measure distance, speed, location, and time traveled. No need for that now-obsolete pedometer.
There are apps designed specifically for stretching, yoga, sport training, even for exercising while pregnant. There are apps for every part of the exercise activity.
Finally, there are now video games designed to get you up and moving. Xbox Connect, Playstation Move, and the infamous Wii Fit give you every instruction to make exercise a brain-less task. The sensors monitor your movements and positions to ensure proper technique is applied. This is certainly a huge step forward since Atari.
Now you can’t use the weather as an excuse anymore.
With the improvements in technology, almost every aspect of exercise and health is done for you. The one variable you control in the equation is the act of doing it. The resources are endless. All you need to do is commit yourself and the rest is handled for you. Find the apps that will best suit your lifestyle and help you overcome your exercise barriers. Use gadgets or accessories that will keep you motivated, educated, and safe. All you have to do is walk through the door. Or hit the start button.
Workout With A Friend
Working out with others can be one of the most important aspects of exercise. No one wants to attempt exercise alone, absent the safety of a peer. Just like team sports, exercise is most effective when others are involved in the same activity.
Exercising with a friend is a great way to keep you motivated. They will be with you during your exercise journey and provide a support system to boost moral. Having a friend present will keep you from giving up because of the sense of responsibility on futility.
Try finding a friend or partner to commit to an exercise schedule. Try to make a weekly workout schedule that is consistent and realistic. Most importantly, have fun. Exercise doesn’t have to be a completely serious, torturous activity. Make your exercise safe and effective when you workout with a friend.
Final Thought
When something is important to you, you’ll always find a way.