For so many years, I tried to exercise and wasn’t too successful at it. My husband was a runner most of his life, and despite three pretty serious knee surgeries, he would still press on – not just to keep himself in good shape – which he did, but he loved to run. It was a sad day for him when his knees became so bad that he just couldn’t run any more. He has tried many other alternatives, but none for which he had the same passion as he did with running.
It was shortly after he had to stop that we were away in north Florida. The weather was perfect – sunny but not too hot. With that combination of perfect circumstances, I began to get an urge and desire to run. This was so different for me, since I have never been that physically active. I started out slowly and after a while found myself running in 5K races, and loving it!!
Last year, at the beginning of the year, I got sick with sinus problems which of course, for me, turned into respiratory issues, and I didn’t even have the breathing capacity to run. I was on antibiotics and other medications, and I just didn’t have the energy and drive. I was like that for several months, and before I realized it, I hadn’t exercised in months. Well, as most of you know, it is a whole lot easier to break a habit than to keep on going! I would stop and start but was not consistent.
Two months ago, I accepted a Terrafit Challenge, which meant exercising five times a week, watching what you eat and getting back in shape. Two months into it, I am so grateful to the people that started this, because I am now back into my regular exercising routine, and feel so much better.
A balanced diet is essential for a happy life, but without regular exercise, no amount of kale, salads or other healthy foods we may put in our bodies will make up for the lack of movement.
In the same way that certain foods can protect us from cancer, diabetes, heart disease, etc., regular physical exercise also has its own health benefits. Without exercise, it is hard for a person to be able to reach their full physical and mental potential to achieve overall wellness.
The benefits of exercising include these – just to name a few:
| Weight control | Reduces existing heart damage |
| Lowers blood pressure | Decreases inflammation |
| Improves quality of sleep | Delays loss of muscle mass/strength |
| Improves balance and coordination | Improves immune function |
| Improves flexibility | Improves insulin sensitivity |
| Reduces osteoporosis | Reduces joint stress & back pain |
| Decreases incidents of heart disease | Improves cognitive function |
| Reduces depression, anxiety & stress | Increases energy |
Studies have shown that the body heals eight times faster when you exercise regularly. So with these types of benefits, why do we fight so much against committing to exercise?
When exercising it is important, however, to remember how much, which types of exercise will benefit us individually. It is not “one exercise fits all;” just as it is not “one diet fits all.” BIO-INDIVIDUALITY. That’s the name of the game. We need to experiment with things like walking, running, biking, swimming, yoga, Pilates, etc. Find out what works for you. When you do, you will be more likely to be consistent and with that consistency, you will reap the benefits – increased energy, mental clarity, optimal digestive health, enhanced mood, and much more.
What is the secret to a consistent and successful exercise routine? I personally think it is accountability. That is why the Terrafit Challenge has worked so well for me. But, whether you rely on a friend, family member, personal trainer, or a Health Coach, your success will be something to celebrate.
Once you do find what works best for you and you start noticing all the benefits that come with your efforts, exercise will be like second nature and your body will thank you for it.
Get started today, and feel the amazing benefits that can be yours.