Exercising outside the gym

Exercising outside the gym

Written by: Emma Anius

Ever thought to yourself ‘I need to sign up for a gym’ and before you know it 6 months and 12 pounds later you’re still not a member of a gym? Apart from the monthly fee, dirty or broken equipment, and it being too busy at certain times, gyms are amazing establishments.  Most of them cater for everybody and have a full range of equipment so you are able to get the workout you desire.  If you have cash to spare I would say that the gym is the best thing for you- but if you are in the season for saving, you can get just as good a workout outside the gym.

If you are one of those people that spend hours on a treadmill or you don’t know where to begin; take the workout to the streets. Walking or jogging is a great way to start off any exercise routine.  It is an activity that everyone is able to do with little risk of injury; it has amazing health benefits and little to no expense incurred.

Exercising outside is so much more rewarding, you get to experience the fresh air and view the scenery.  Go down to the beach and listen to the waves as you run or take a trip to pigeon point and take a walk up and down while captivating yourself with your history.  St. Lucia isn’t called ‘simply beautiful’ for no reason- there are so many picturesque locations to explore while getting a good workout.

If on the rare occasion the weather isn’t so great- home is a great relaxing environment to continue or to start you off exercising. You can get creative, using various household items to challenge yourself physically, use a bottle of water as a weight, or a chair to do arm or leg exercises.  There are numerous objects you can use to get an effective work out while enjoying yourself in front of the TV or listening to the radio, instead of becoming stressed out in a busy environment elsewhere.

If you don’t think you can get an effective workout without spending hundreds on weights you are very mistaken; your body is all the weight you need!  Body weight exercises are definitely challenging and effective forms of exercise- you can’t go wrong!  You can also start your program at any time, regardless of your present physical condition, and at your own pace.

If you do not have the discipline to exercise on your own, bring a friend!  Exercising in pairs or in a group is a great way to ensure you keep it up, because you have someone you can have a laugh with and someone who will also push you to do your best.  If you don’t have anyone willing to workout with you personal training is exercises best-kept secret. Personal trainers are able to design specific programs to suit your needs and abilities, make sure you reach your goal and bring the fun back into exercising.

Looking after your body is the key to healthy living.

 If you have no time to exercise or don’t know where to begin:

Beginner

Lunge x 10, Adductor lift x 15, Push ups x 10, Tricep dips x 10, side lunge x 10

Advanced

Lunge x 15, Adductor lift x 25, Decline Push ups x 15, Tricep dips x 15, side lunge x 20

• For help with the exercises go to www.facebook.com/cyanfitness and view the photos

Note: Emma Anius is a Personal Trainer for Cyan Fitness promoting a ‘healthy life and a better you.’

Email: emma@cyanfitness.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/cyanfitness