t’s Friday, so I’m linking up with Courtney at Eat, Pray, Run DC, Cynthia at You Signed Up for What and Mar at Mar on the Run. Each week they pick a theme and bloggers join in and link up. This year instead of specific themes, they are letting us be creative with broad themes for each week of the month. The first week of each month is a “fitness” week. I’m running The San Francisco Marathon this weekend. I’ve been doing marathons since 1996 (see my TBT post HERE). One part of my staying power has been having the right perspective and focusing on events/locations that are fun and interesting with people I like.
Five Ways to Keep Fitness Fun
1. Try something new. Always wanted to try a kayak or stand up paddleboard? Just do it! Usually you can get a special “first time” rate or look for a deal with Groupon or Living Social. Next time you think, “I really want to try that,” seize the day and make it happen! I tried a SurfFit class this summer and it was awesome! Don’t let this picture fool you, it was challenging and a great core workout – plus it was FUN!
2. Try something old. If you loved running when you were a kid, make like the Nike folks say and “just do it!” If you’ve been around here lately you know that I am keeping running fun by celebrating the anniversary of my first marathon in San Francisco in 1996. I can’t stop smiling just thinking about it! If you played (the operative word here is play) soccer or volleyball, look for a league or pick up games. If you loved to dance, do a dance class or Zumba workout. If it was fun back then, it will likely be fun now.
3. Bring a friend. Everything is more fun when do it with a friend (or several) or significant other. Not only is it more fun but it can help you to be more consistent, too. Working out with people you like is definitely a win-win!
4. Sign up. Sign up for an event or class that you’ve always wanted to try. Can’t run a mile? Sign up for a 5K and head over to Couch to 5K to get a training plan. Need some motivation, support your favorite charity! It’s another win-win! You can join me and Sweat Pink in supporting the If Girls Ran the World virtual run in October (more on that coming soon!)
5. Do something you love. If you hate the gym, go outside to walk, jog, run or hike. Create a fitness scavenger hunt. Be creative and do what makes you happy. And don’t forget to smile while you’re at it! Smiling makes you feel better. It’s a fact! Here is the science.
How do you make exercise more fun? Please leave your suggestions in the comments!
Have a great weekend!