Well, it’s August and although the end of summer is right around the corner, there is still time to get out and get busy. If you’re like me and keep an active lifestyle, you constantly troll the internet for new takes on fitness plans. I mark several favorites that I like to view, and occasionally, I do a deep dive into what the new trends are. I’m amazed that more people aren’t getting hurt from some things they post online – but I digress.
As a fitness coach and someone who spends a large amount of time seeking better ways to activate muscles or ways to do cardio, I have to do my research, because even as a coach, I need help too. If you find yourself searching for new exercises or routines, be aware of the difference between finding a workout that is challenging and a workout that is a challenge.
Challenges
Occasionally I find challenges on the Internet (YouTube and other social media sites) that serve a purpose. Some ask you to do 30 pushups per day for veteran suicide awareness or Walking for March of Dimes, for example. You get the point; there is a defined purpose that isn’t over-the-top crazy in their demand for accomplishment. Others that just boggle my mind are offered by influencers or fitness gurus. I watched several YouTubers who ate 10,000 calories in one setting followed by attempts to burn the same number of calories in one day. Don’t even get me started on the one I watched where the guy ate 100,000 calories over three days and then worked out for 24 hours straight. That’s just not healthy, by any means. I am not advocating for you to do the same thing, but if you’re looking for a challenge, be reasonable with your efforts.
Challenging
Any exercise regime that you undertake should be challenging. It should push you beyond what you have been doing. If you’re lifting weights, lift a little heavier. If you’re doing cardio, go five minutes more to start. Every week, asses where you are and where you can push yourself more. A word of caution however; don’t push too hard too fast. There’s a reason we start slowly and progress steadily. This is good for strengthening tendons, building muscles and reduces lactic-acid issues.
The point is this: Challenge yourself in a way that is helpful and healthy. Find a workout program that is challenging or a diet plan that challenges you to make small changes over time. By going slowly, deliberately and being challenged, you’ll find yourself in better health in the long run.
As always, if you are interested in any specific fitness-related topic reach out to me at [email protected]. Inspire me to inspire you! Tune in next month for a new article on challenges!
