5. Schedule outdoor activities with friends
Research has shown that training with a friend makes you more likely to stick to your training routine. It is always good to have someone to motivate you. When you feel tired or lazy, having a mate who encourages you to stick to your routine is priceless. Partner up with a neighbour, friend or family member at least once a week and schedule some kind of activity, such as an after-dinner walk, game of tennis or light jog. Training with a friend will not only benefit you physically but can also strengthen your bond.
6. Join a charity walk or local fitness event
It’s always good to set yourself an attainable goal. Getting ready to complete a 5 km walk in aid of your favourite charity is a good place to start. Whether you do it by yourself or recruit everyone from your company or family and friends to participate, it is a good way to build up your fitness together and create a sense of camaraderie amongst your peers and loved ones. Working towards a goal will ensure that you do not shy away from your training routine. Why not sign up for a non-competitive event today? It is fun and the benefits will be far-reaching.
7. Have an open mind and challenge yourself
Whether you are a seasoned athlete or a fitness newbie, it is important to keep challenging yourself. Just as you strive to include new foods into your diet, you also want to make sure that your exercise routine doesn’t become just that: routine. It is important to stay motivated. To achieve your goals, why not put up some inspirational messages in strategic places around your home. Take ‘before’ pictures of yourself and look at them periodically to motivate yourself.
Have an open mind in your approach to training. Don’t dismiss something until you have tried it. Challenging your body in ways that it hasn’t been before is a sure-fire way to obtain amazing results.
So, in the grand scheme of things, you will find that by changing your approach to your existing training routine, you will discover what great things you are capable of.
Remember, change is like a holiday, and the time is ripe to bring about some changes to your training routine when preparing for the holiday season.
Happy training.
More information
For more information or advice, email Schalk on
About parkrun
parkrun organises free, weekly 5 km timed runs. They are open to everyone, free, safe and easy to take part in. These events take place in pleasant parkland surroundings and we encourage people of every ability to take part; from those taking their first steps in running to Olympians; from juniors to those with more experience; we welcome you all. For more information, visit http://www.parkrun.co.za/
About Beach Core
Beach Core is a fun, functional all-body workout done on the beach to create extra instability and a more challenging workout. It is for anyone who wants to prove their general fitness and core strength and is suitable for all ages. Classes are designed to push you to your own physical boundaries and although some of the exercises are advanced, they are adapted to suit each individual according to their strengths and weaknesses. Classes vary between core-specific controlled exercises to cardio and various fitness challenges. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/BeachCore