Well, howdy there, friends! I know that it’s been awhile since we at the Free Range have written! As the new year begins, many of us decide to embark on a fitness journey. Personally, I’m more than ready to get started anew, and I’m a firm believer that it’s never too late to start doing good things for yourself So, If you’ve found yourself sitting on the couch, wondering where the days have gone and how that last bag of chips mysteriously vanished, you’re not alone! As we glide (or shuffle) into middle age, keeping ourselves moving can feel like a daunting task. But fear not! We’re here to share some fun tips to get those hips shaking and the heart pumping without making life feel like a chore. Put on your favorite tunes and let’s get motivated!
Dance Like Nobody’s Watching (Because They’re Probably Aren’t
Seriously though, grab those imaginary maracas and turn up your favorite music! Dancing is a fantastic way to get your heart rate up while having a hoot and a half. Whether you fancy a little two-step or a full-blown boogie, just let loose and feel the rhythm! If you ever catch someone looking, just wink and say, “This is my exercise!” I’m not a great dancer, but I truly love to move to a great tune, and I make a point to turn on upbeat music while I’m cleaning or getting ready to go out.
Find Your Workout Buddy – The More, the Merrier!
Nothing beats sweating it out with a friend or family member! Gather your pals, and make a pact to hit the gym or take a brisk walk together. You can chat, gossip about that neighbor’s cat, and motivate each other to keep going. One person can bring their own favorite workout video they found on YouTube, and the whole gang can give it a try. Getting together with friends for a walk costs nothing, and it’s fun. Plus, those post-workout snacks taste a whole lot better when you’re sharing them!
Set Fun Goals – Not Just Your Average To-Do List
Okay, let’s set the scene: you want to work out, but to be honest, it’s as appealing as a rainy day. Instead of boring goals like “lose 5 pounds,” why not aim for something fun like “do the cha-cha for 30 minutes” or “try a Zumba class and giggle all the way through”? Make those goals sassy and sensational, and you’re more likely to stick with them! The simple truth is that you’re more likely to stick with any fitness plan if you make it enjoyable. We all know that we need to exercise for good health, but if we re-frame it in our minds as playtime, it becomes something we actually look forward to.
A couple of fun exercises I like to do involve exercise video games. If you have VR glasses, like a MetaQuest headset, you can try Les Mills Body Combat or Premium Bowling. Those are two super fun and physically demanding games that I incorporate into my workout routine. There are so many ways to make exercise fun!
Get Outdoors – Mother Nature’s Best Gym
Ah, the great outdoors! Nothing beats fresh air and sunshine. Take a walk in the park, try your hand at gardening, or embark on a nature hike. Just be sure to pack a tasty snack to keep your energy up. Nature has its way of lifting our spirits, and the world is your oyster (or your gym)!
Here in Sweden, we have a saying that “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes” and that is something that I keep in mind whenever the weather is not perfect. For example, we have super cold winters here, but we still manage to get out and take a quick walk outside in freezing weather. You just need to dress for the weather. Of course, I’m not saying that you should get out in a hurricane or any other extreme weather. What I am saying is that a little rain or cold weather should not stop you from getting out and breathing in some fresh air. I always feel extra good whenever I come inside after a walk in nature. That feeling alone feels like such a victory to me, like, “yippee, I did something so good for myself!”
Mix It Up – Spice Things Up
Like Grandma’s secret chili recipe, doing the same workout routine day in and day out can be more dull than a day-old biscuit! Keep things fresh by trying something new each week. One week, it’s cycling; the next, it’s pilates. Get creative! Who knows? You might even discover a hidden talent for aerial yoga or underwater basket weaving.
It really is true, you are only limited by your imagination when it comes to new and exciting ways to get your body in motion. Keeping exercise fresh is such a key to making it a lifelong habit. I know that I used to force myself to walk on the treadmill for 45 minutes every single day, and it got to be such a chore for me, that I dreaded it. I had to find different ways to workout, and that is what inspired me to try something new. It is also what inspired me to write this blog.
Dress for Success – Or Just Dress for Fun!
Wearing the right gear can make a world of difference. Slip into those bright, funky sneakers or that quirky workout shirt that makes you feel like a superhero. Strutting your stuff in style can pump up your motivation levels faster than you can say “Workout Warrior!” Just the simple act of changing from your everyday clothing into active wear puts you in the right state of mind that you need in order to fully participate in your chosen workout.
In decades past, workout gear was expensive and very uncomfortable. It also was not the most flattering for the figure. But, thankfully, times have changed for the better, and workout clothing is not only better quality, but also more budget friendly. Just about any discount clothing store now has good clothing suitable for either a traditional workout, or for many other outdoor activities.
Celebrate Those Small Wins – You Did it, Partner!
Every little success counts! Did you walk an extra block today? Celebrate! Started using the stairs instead of the elevator? Throw yourself a mini-party! Reward yourself in fun ways like a bubble bath or a cup of hot tea. Remember, every baby step gets you closer to those bigger goals. Also, take a moment to write down these wins and take the time to reflect on how good it feels to be making such positive strides in your fitness journey.
Dance it Out Before Bed – Shake Off the Day’s Sillies!
End your day with a little shimmy in your living room before bed. Turn on your favorite tunes, grab a partner (or dance solo), and let those worries shake off like confetti. Not only will it bring you joy, but it’ll help you sleep like a happy baby. Personally, I like to do a little dance while brushing my teeth at night. Just those couple of minutes of movement adds to your daily exercise time. Every bit you can do really does help.
Wrapping it Up
So there you have it, friends! A handful of tips to help you wiggle, jiggle, and boogie your way into a fit and fabulous middle age. It is my fondest wish to be able to help others get motivated to exercise more. I hope that you feel more inspired to find a new workout that you will love. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection; it’s about moving your body, having fun, and embracing this wonderful stage of life with open arms. So lace up those sneakers, get your groove on, and let’s make exercising the best part of your day! I wish you all happy days filled with dancing and healthy activities, my friends!