We all know that feeling of defeat when you finish work for the day and can’t be bothered to do that small workout you had planned. Instead, curling up in front of the TV with a drink and a packet of crisps. Truth is, you shouldn’t feel bad about not being active at all.
With the days getting shorter and the nights darker, it’s becoming harder to find the motivation to keep active. And with the added stress of the pandemic, it’s understandable if you don’t quite feel up to returning to the gym just yet.
However, fitness is a key element of physical and mental health. No matter how small the effort or how little time you have, here are 5 ways to get your endorphins going over the Christmas period:
1. Friendly fun run
I say run but this could always be a nice winter walk. Why not stay sociable and meet up with a friend (socially distanced of course) or family member and go for a quick jog around the local park. Running is one of the most effective ways of exercise, improving your cardiovascular fitness, burning kilojoules, and strengthening your muscles. Walks also allow for vital dog spotting and adoring time.
2. Classic home workouts
You might be fed up with the idea of a home workout after the first lockdown but there are so many different types of online workout classes and videos, it’s almost impossible to be bored. Whether you make a set up yourself, follow a website or app programme or take to YouTube, there’s something for everyone. Home training allows you to choose your own path, whether that’s cardio, weights, intervals or circuits. Maybe switch up your next workout and try something a little different.
3. Daily chore dash
Do you ever find yourself getting a sweat on whilst doing the hoovering? Well, put that into action. Doing your daily chore activities such as cleaning, dusting or putting clothes away can easily become a form of exercise if you speed up the process and put some more effort into it. Next time you dust the house, try running up and down the stairs in between cleaning each room.
4. Stretch breaks
Exercise doesn’t always have to be energetic, taking a 5-minute stretch break every hour will work just as well. Stretching is one of the best ways to keep your muscles flexible and strong and stay active. If you’re sat at a desk all day, stretching is vital in making sure your body doesn’t become tense. Simple stretches for your legs, arms and back can be found anywhere online. Start off with some light moves and after a few weeks, you’ll find yourself more flexible than ever.
5. Old-fashioned Boogie
If all else fails, pop on your favourite Christmas song (or any song if you’re the Grinch) and have a good old-fashioned dance. Not only will you find yourself doing some exercise but it’s also sure to put a smile on your face! Song examples that I find personally effective, include: ‘I Don’t Want a Lot for Christmas’ by Mariah Carey or ‘Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree’ by Brenda Lee.
Words by Megan Armitage
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