I have never liked “working out” for the sake of it.
Besides, I sweat too easily.
It’s ironic that I became a dance and movement educator, guiding others to move (and sweat). What changed? Realizing the bigger picture of purpose. It was knowing “the why behind the what” when incorporating a movement practice and it had to be more than physical results and aesthetics. It became a time for self-care, a place to build community, and encourage others to believe their worth.
This revelation didn’t come at once. It was a journey throughout the years. I tried different workouts but they never stuck: CrossFit - I couldn’t make the one-year-mark despite having a background in gymnastics; HIIT workouts felt too military, and swimming laps felt too isolated. Call me fussy but the proof was in the pudding; I was lacking consistency. These workouts weren’t my vibe (and I clearly needed a tribe).
When I accepted the fact that I wouldn’t fit into the stereotypical workout mould, I focused on movement practices that made me look forward, felt good, and ultimately, enhanced my quality of life. For me, that was found through dance and Pilates.
Here are some ways to rethink working out and encourage you to kick-start your movement journey:
Invest in yourself
Stop counting the pennies. With the convenience of social media and the internet, it’s tempting to choose the free workout. However, if you have the means, purchasing a class versus going down the rabbit hole of YouTube, will be more sustainable to create a routine. Think about this: How many times have you avoided the toll or chose street-parking in order to save a few ringgit? Case in point: there’s power in where you put your buck.
Block it out on your calendar
Schedule the workout as a non-negotiable. If your boss called you or Jimmy Fallon’s assistant rang up to meet you, you’d lock that time, pronto. You likely wouldn’t cancel (I mean who doesn’t want to meet Jimmy Fallon!)
So, if these are non-negotiables, why would taking care of your body be an option?
Grab another body
Share your goals with a friend. It’s less intimidating to try something new with someone who keeps you accountable. Your tribe will pick you up on days when you’ve hit a wall, and trust me, those days will come. If your friends are inconsistent, invest in a coach or personal trainer. With many offering their services online, there’s a trainer out there for your goals and budget.
No frills
There are many creative ways to work out with just your body weight. Go for a run around the neighbourhood with a friend, create a HIIT workout to do at the park, or play basketball with a group of friends.
If at first, you don’t succeed, try again.
It takes time to build a habit. For some, it’s weeks, and others, several months. If you’ve tried something and fallen off the bandwagon, don’t give up. Get back up and try again. Consider keeping a visual record of your progress and hang it somewhere you’ll see it daily - on your fridge or beside your bathroom mirror. Celebrating the small wins will motivate you and remind you to take it one day at a time.
Keep it fresh
Everyone has their own workout style. If you’ve tried one form and just couldn’t stick with it, it might just have been the wrong fit or time for a change in season. Don’t take it as a failure.
Remember, commit to your body, you’re in it for the long run. I’m cheering you on! – The Vibes, October 7, 2020
.jpg)
