The start of a new year brings a renewed focus on fitness for many people. It’s a time to set health goals, try new ways to move, and discover what truly brings you joy in exercise.

I truly believe there is a form of exercise out there for everyone. The great thing is that form of exercise does not have to be the same for everyone because there are so many options! Not only does exercise help physically, but it also releases natural endorphins and enkephalins, as well as many other things that can help mentally and spiritually as well. I know if I miss a few days of working out, I can feel down, but a workout instantly makes me feel better afterward. 

That being said, there are certain types of movement and exercise that I enjoy more than others. Being a former gymnast, personally, I have stayed active and tried different forms of exercise, but it was not until recently trying out an aerial class that I found something that resembled my true love for acrobatics that cannot be found anywhere else. I always enjoy working out, but the excitement I have throughout my week looking forward to that aerial class is unmatched! That hour of exercise is the fastest hour of my week. 

There is Something for Everyone

Now most may not feel the same way about trying an aerial class, I believe there is something out there that can spark this same interest for everyone. Having never played soccer, volleyball, or softball as a kid, I lack the interest and skill for joining an intramural league. But I likely have a different story than the majority of people, and you may feel the same way about joining a sport as I do for aerial. Or maybe running or biking is more of your thing, and maybe even trying out triathlons is something you never considered, but something you wanted to try.

Don’t Forget About Strength Training

Finding that way of moving that makes you happy is key. However, continuing with strength training is also a key part of preventing injuries and helping you excel in your found sport/activity. I was able to jump right into an aerial class and do well at it because I have kept up with strength training and mobility over the years. I have found that the strength that I was able to maintain made aerial classes more fun and rewarding because I was able to try new skills. While the technique was new to me, the strength involved in those moves were muscles I have continued to work and strengthen.

Take Away

The thing I hope you take away from this is as we kick off the new year is that how one person exercises is not the only way to exercise. What brings one person joy likely does not bring joy to everyone. If you are in a rut, try finding something new. Even if you try something new and realize it is not for you, it may lead you down a different path of exercise than you thought, and you may find joy in something you never considered or were too afraid to try! Oh, and don’t forget about strength training! While that may not be your favorite way to exercise, there are plenty of ways to make it fun, such as group classes, and remember that is what will allow you to do the things you really want to do!

Happy New Year!

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