| Pillow by Alexandra Ferguson |
So I've heard about this thing called 'exercise' which is apparently important. You know, to live a healthy life and all.
I used to exercise a lot (well, more than I do now). When I was in high school I had Tae Kwon Do two nights a week, and twice a week I went to Pilates and Yoga with my Mum (there were free classes in the mornings on the waterfront). I think that was where I peaked, in terms of dedication and consistency at least.
Since then I've tried my hand at running, walking, fitness classes, dance classes, and even zumba, and I think I've finally figured out what works for me.
I am very picky (and by picky I mean lazy), and if too much effort is involved before the exercise begins, then I'll probably ditch it. I know, I know. It's sad. Exercising is tricky with hijab on. Some ladies can do it, and they rock it. I personally can't stand it. Too many layers, it gets too hot, and I only last a week before I give up exercising all together.
So the solution? I work out at home! I know, your mind is blown.
Every morning (at least 5 days a week), I get out of bed and put on a fitness video and get stuck into it. I rely on YouTube for all the videos - I just set up my iPad, press play and get stuck into it.
Because of my bad track record with maintaining exercise, I set myself a low target of 5 minutes a day. I can do more if I want, but as long as I do 5 minutes of some form of movement, then I considered it done. In a lot of people's eyes that probably doesn't even count as a workout. It was more important for me though to maintain consistency and make this a habit. And so far so good! I'm two months in and still going strong. (I'm even managing to increase my exercise times to roughly 10-15mins).
In the past two months I've learnt a few things. One: cardio sucks. I hate it. I'm figuring out how to love it though. And two: I love weights! Strength training is the best. And for anyone who thinks women using weights is going to turn them into Arnie Schwarzenegger, do some research! 2.5kg dumbells & 3 sets of 15 reps is about 0.0005% of what is required to be a body builder. Calm down.
My go-to YouTube channels for fitness are Tara Stiles Yoga, LIVESTRONG Woman, and Tone It Up. I find it so much easier following along to a video, rather than using those printout routines you can find online.
One of the most important things about maintaining an exercise routine is finding something you enjoy! If you hate running, don't run! Dance instead, or go to a gym, or whatever! If you find something physical that you love and look forward to doing, then consistency is going to a billion times easier to maintain.
