Everyone knows that exercise is good for the body. No confusion there. The question is: What exercise is the right one for you to do? There are a number of fitness trends, fads, and whims that come and go.
Here are three lasting fitness trends you can pick up. These workout routines have been gaining in popularity. As always, consult your physician before taking part in any new health routine.
Body Weight Training
Perhaps the biggest trend of 2015 is bodyweight training. This has been a popular workout because it’s low-impact, highly effective, and completely free to do. Bodyweight training exercises are the things you can do at home: squats, sit-ups, pull-ups, jumping jacks, lunges, and a few other machine- and weight-less activities.
You’ve probably done some of these exercises before, but have you been doing them properly? Take push-ups, for example. Do you keep your head, neck, torso, and hips in a straight line? When going down, do your elbows stay close to your body, or do they flare outward? Take a look at the hello healthy blog for proper bodyweight training exercise guidelines that can help you get on the path to success.
HIIT
The next trend worth considering is high-intensity interval training, or HIIT. HIIT exercises are brief, intense routines followed by short rest periods. If, for example, you wanted to incorporate HIIT into your morning walk, you could up the pace for a minute, then bring it back to a casual cadence for two minutes – and repeat. Some benefits of HIIT may include a healthier heart, lower blood pressure, increased energy, lower risk for diabetes, and lower body fat.
So, how do you get started with HIIT? Whether it’s walking, running, or cycling here are tips to getting started safely and as effectively as possible. Remember to start small and let your workout grow naturally.
Strength Training
Do you know what the word sarcopenia means?
Sarcopenia is the loss of muscle mass and function. This is a natural process that usually begins when we turn 30 and accelerates around the age of 50. According to WebMD , sarcopenia is one of the leading causes of muscle mass loss resulting in the likelihood of falls and fractures . A great way to combat sarcopenia is good, old-fashioned strength training. Lifting weights is a great way to improve muscle mass. And under the guidance of a professional trainer, anybody can strength train safely. Many people believe that lifting weights is all about gaining muscle mass, which is untrue. When properly performed, strength training can also aid in heart disease, blood pressure, and lung efficiency; and provides joint, immune system, and psychological benefits.
Whether you adopt bodyweight training from home, enjoy high intensity interval training outdoors, or do strength training with a professional at your local gym, working out can pay off in huge dividends. More energy, a higher quality of living, boosted confidence — exercise has a lot to offer. The important thing is to do something, anything that keeps you moving, active, and healthy!
Resources:
AARP’s Healthy Living page – AARP.org