A lot of people are becoming fitness conscious these days, and that’s a good thing. People are beginning to see the benefits of exercising as a part of healthy living because being fit benefits your body both physically and mentally. Considering the kind of added weight and mental gbas gbos we’ve experienced during this pandemic, frequent exercise is super important.
For me, exercise has always been a tricky thing because I’ve never been able to sustain the kind of routines people capture and post on Instagram. I’d rather sleep or play Call of Duty, really. Also, gyms aren’t for me because instructors are liars from the pit of hell. How can you tell me to bench press 80kg in 10 reps, and when I get to 9, you say, “10 more, no pain, no gain!” You know what? Just kill me.
So, here’s what I do: I walk – a lot (all I need are comfortable shoes and earphones)! Some time ago, I decided to see how long it would take to cross Third Mainland Bridge on foot. With all my pausing to take pictures and greet fishermen from above, let’s just say it took me almost two hours to get to Adeniji. I also enjoy swimming.
But I digress.
I realise that I’m not alone in this and most people interested in exercising with any degree of regularity have questions: What will work for me? When should I exercise? How frequently should I exercise? Is a gym necessary? Are there any extras?
These are good questions, and to help, I’ve put together a few things to note for anyone who wants to get on the fitness wagon and for those who are already on team #fitfam.
Exercising doesn’t have to be boring when people say “I don’t like exercising,” it’s possible that they’re saying: “I don’t enjoy this kind of exercise.” This is true for me.
The solution is simple. If you don’t like lifting weights, don’t. If you can’t run even when you imagine a horde of zombies chasing you, don’t run. There are loads of exercises you can indulge in to keep fit: dancing, running, swimming (this is a fave)… loads!
- Exercising minus healthy eating is a waste of time Using the excuse of a 500-calorie 10 kilometre run as an excuse to justify devouring 1000 calories worth of junk food is counterproductive. Ideally, you need a calorie deficit to maintain a healthy weight, so if you are eating more than you’re burning, well…
- There’s no one ‘fit’ When it comes to exercising, there are no real rules if you make it a regular part of your lifestyle. You don’t have to run on a treadmill for hours if you’re going to be miserable after. Find something that makes you sweat and elevates your heart rate.
- Diet. Diet. Diet. What you eat is responsible for 80-90% of your success or failure when it comes to losing weight and getting healthier. Exercising is actually just part of the job.
- Consistency is key Keeping things flowing is one of the most important things to note in fitness. Every decision counts. Every choice adds up.
If you make one bad decision or drop the ball, that’s not the end; one day off doesn’t ruin a week, and one week off doesn’t ruin a month. It’s all cumulative.
Remember, it’s not all about toned thighs and six-packs. Exercise is a bonus. In the long run, it helps your heart get stronger, builds muscle, improves mental health, as well as a lot of other health benefits.
PS: If you know any baba I can meet to help me get rid of this baby potbelly, let me know. I’m tired.
