Spring Into Action

Spring is almost here. Next weekend, we’ll spring ahead to adjust for Daylight Saving Time in Ohio, and the following Saturday will mark the equinox.

I’m so excited! Warmer temps are coming! 🥰

Is the promise of better weather inspiring you to spring into action?

K and I have been consistent about getting outside daily for at least a short walk, though our walks started to get shorter and shorter as the temperatures plummeted late last year (and they are still short, relative to our summer walks). We’re both ready for more sunshine in the evenings and being able to spend more time outdoors.

Here are three ideas to help you spring into action with fitness as the weather improves:

1. Find a new park to explore (or visit a favorite). Changing your environment can make your favorite fitness activity more enjoyable, especially when that change includes fresh air, sunshine, and trails free of ice and snow.
2. Consider a new activity. Maybe you have been thinking about cycling, hiking, or trail running. Maybe you want to complete a road race or a triathlon. Trying new activities provides the opportunity to find additional activities that you may enjoy as much as or more than your current favorites.
3. Challenge yourself with new goals. From covering a longer distance during your exercise of choice to increasing your speed over a set distance, setting a goal and working toward achieving that goal can help to keep you engaged in the activity. Other variables to adjust might include resistance, duration, and/or number of reps.

When it comes to building or maintaining your personal fitness, taking action is key. Whether you’ve got five minutes or 35 minutes, exercising regularly will add up to big results over time.

In five minutes, you could do a short strength circuit or walk up and down a set of stairs multiple times. In 35 minutes, you could run a few miles or ride even further. Also, the exercise you do throughout the day adds up; even if you only have a few minutes here and there, your efforts will have an impact.

However you decide to spring into action, you have the opportunity to design a fitness routine (and a life) that you love. Having fun and making time to play are just as beneficial to adults as to kids — perhaps more beneficial in some cases. Finding fitness activities you enjoy makes it much more likely that you will repeat those activities, which will improve your health and overall sense of well-being.

…But you have to get started. What will you do to spring into action today?