Awaken to joys of exercise
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Its 4:00 a.m. the alarm sounds and I think to myself, “is it time to get up already?” I gently push the snooze button for another 10 minutes. Now, I admit it’s not easy getting out of bed at that time to head for the gym, but it works for me. Most people think I love to exercise since I do this on a consistent basis.
Let me set the record straight, I enjoy working out, but it is a challenge. I would rather stay in bed for another two hours. However, I know that the chance of getting this done during the course of the day is very slim. Everyday I make the choice to live as well as I possibly can. And that starts with exercise, focusing on improving my health and well being.
By the time I arrive at the gym, generally I am pumped up. The combination of exercise buddies who provide inspiration and encouragement, and of course, lots of conversation and laughter always helps ensure a great workout.
In fact, most of the time we have so much fun while working out others will come over and say, “I want what some of whatever you all had before you got here.” Who said exercise had to be painful, boring, and tedious? Surround yourself with others who can help defuse what could be a mundane workout.
Since I don’t have to rush home to take my son to school I spend a couple of hours at the gym working out. I do at least 45 minutes of aerobics every day. When I really want to bump it up a notch I head outside for an early morning jog for another 20 minutes. After returning to the gym, I spend about 30 minutes lifting weights, working out on nautilus machines or doing sit-ups. Occasionally, I’ll manage to get in a good workout in the pool as well. I have found that changing your regiment helps to keep exercise interesting and refreshing. At the end of the workout, I feel like super woman, equipped to start the day with a positive attitude and a renewed sense of vigor and enthusiasm.
For those of you who do not engage in a regular exercise regiment, think about these benefits to help inspire you.
Exercise helps people lose weight and lower the risk of some diseases. Exercising to maintain a healthy weight decreases a person's risk of developing certain diseases, including type II diabetes and high blood pressure.
Exercise benefits every part of the body, including the mind. Exercising causes the body to produce endorphins, chemicals that can help a person to feel more peaceful and happy. It can help you sleep better, reduce stress, and relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety. In addition, exercise gives you more energy, strengthens the heart and lungs, and gives people a real sense of accomplishment and pride at having achieved a certain goal.
Exercising can help you look better. People who exercise burn more calories and look more toned than those who don't. In fact, exercise is one of the most important parts of keeping your body at a healthy weight.
Sometimes life can toss you a curve ball when you least expect it. Engaging in a regular exercise regiment can help you better cope with life and enjoy it more abundantly. It's important to remember that motivation doesn't just happen. It's something you make happen each and every day. The hardest part of exercise is getting started...if you can get that far, you've won half the battle. Take time to put yourself first. So put on your shoes and get moving!
Thoughts to ponder:
o Nothing lifts me out of a bad mood better than a hard workout on my treadmill. It never fails. Exercise is nothing short of a miracle.
Cher
o The reason I exercise is for the quality of life I enjoy.
Kenneth H. Cooper
o If it weren't for the fact that the TV set and the refrigerator are so far apart, some of us wouldn't get any exercise at all.
Joey Adams
Christine W. Smith
Extension Agent
Family and Consumer Sciences
North Carolina Cooperative Extension
Wayne County Center
P.O. Box 68
Goldsboro, NC 27533
E-Mail: Christine_Smith@ncsu.edu
phone: 919-731-1525
fax: 919-731-1511