Winter and evolution are hiding my recharge button!
by Allan Bolton B.H.M.S. (Hons) MAAESS AEP SP
Many rate a workout with a non-anesthetised tooth extraction. If this is you don’t too feel down about it, you are only doing what evolution has taught you. Our genes are constantly telling us to keep still and conserve life sustaining energy. Today, these features which not so long ago were important for survival, are now a bug in the system that can lead to energy drain.
Our genetic energy conservation coding combined with winter temperatures and time pressure can make leaving your exercise bug in hibernation an easy choice.
Expend a little, recharge a lot
Working out is a great way to re-energise both mind and body. Exercising for just 30 minutes can make you feel good all day. To switch from simply thinking about exercise to doing it we need to figure ways to outsmart our genes and stimulate the brain’s do-it-again chemistry that makes us want to keep coming back for more.
Defrost you recharge button
Winter is here, who wants to freeze? A fitness centre is a great place to stay warm, workout and re-energise. Here are some suggestions to keep you on the move.
Find a body-friendly fitness centre
If you feel a little intimidated by the super-fit mirror munchers at the local fitness centre, here are some tips on how to find centre with a positive image:
• Staff are dressed in loose rather than skin-tight, neck-high clothing
• Staff take the time during your first few visits to discuss your needs, rather than push the benefits of the latest butt-burning machine.
• Gym members are represented in a diverse range of sizes and shapes, not just lean and mean.
• The walls feature posters of flowing streams or inspirational quotes rather than bikini-clad beach babes or hormone riddled muscle hulks.
• You can choose from a wide variety of machines and equipment, not just 800kg dumbbells and 40kph treadmills.
• There are quiet, calm areas to relax and stretch, instead of wall-to-wall mirrors and ear bashing dance beats.
• There’s not a set of scales or a pair of skin callipers in sight!
Go for a freebie
Fitness centres will be keen for business in winter, so ask for a free trial workout or week of workouts to get you started.
Partner up
Make a commitment with a buddy to meet at the gym for “partner power” workouts. You might stand yourself up for a gym appointment, but will be less likely to sms a motivated friend with a no-show message.
Try what’s on offer
Take the opportunity to trial different fitness classes. You might like to try yoga, pilates, Body Combat or group personal training.
Get a trainer
Hire a personal trainer once a week to keep you on track and in good form. You’ll probably get nutritional advice and motivation as an extra bonus.
Take a challenge
Challenge yourself to visit the gym at least once a week, and give yourself a nice reward for making good on your efforts.
Catch up on your reading
Take a book to read on the stationary cycle and aim to finish it by Spring.
Go home dry
Take a change of warm clothes, so you don’t catch a chill by going outside wearing wet, sweaty workout gear.
If you don’t hibernate this winter, you won’t have to play catch-up with your fitness come spring. Take it easy, and enjoy your winter workouts.
Allan Bolton is an accredited exercise physiologist. He has worked in health, fitness and human performance over the past 28 years. Over this time Allan has featured in media including all major Australian newspapers, National commercial TV news, ABC radio and most commercial stations. He is a Scientific Advisor and Health and Fitness expert for Weight Watchers Australasia. Allan was the first person in the world with insulin dependent diabetes to complete an Ironman Triathlon. This mix of qualification and personal achievement make him a popular corporate keynote speaker and workshop presenter. For more go to Allan’s website at www.qualityhealth.com.au