INDULGENCES work out by blake beckcom The gym shouldn’t be the only place that beckons you for a workout.
Let’s face it, there is plenty to enjoy out doors that will give you an equal, if not a more significant workout. The beauty of working out of doors, is that you are actually outside reaping the benefits of what that does for your senses. I bet you probably never thought that your senses needed a work out did you? If you’ve been disciplined with your gym sessions your senses have “adapted” to that environment. When adaptation is achieved, it is time to shake things up, not only for your physical body, but for your senses as well. Instead of gym views, gym aromas and the gym “scene,” give your senses a jolt of fresh air, mountain views, seaside salty air, or a local park and see what that does for you. It is invigorating and akin to hitting a different gym—IT PUMPS YOU UP. Exercise is all about moving, getting your heart rate up and working
your major muscle groups. For adults, the Center for Disease Control recommends two hours and 30 minutes (150 minutes) of moderate- intensity aerobic activity every week. They also recommend muscle- strengthening activities at least two or more days per week. These baseline recommendations can be easily met outdoors and it can be fun doing it. When is the last time you took a hike? You get it all in this mode of
working out. Major muscle work as you climb a mountain is no problem here, particularly if you are carrying a backpack—maybe for a picnic. Moderate-intensity aerobic activity accomplished and then some, even more intense because of reduced levels of oxygen as you ascend. Did I mention the lift given your senses due to the fresh air, panoramic views, the smell of the trees and floral aromas? It’s no wonder that we sleep SO well after jaunts like this. We challenge our bodies in a different way, as we break routines, shake things up and renew our total body. Remember when inline skates were all the rage? I bet you’ve still got them stuck in a closet somewhere! I found mine and dusted them off and hit the boardwalk with all of the accoutrements; kneepads, wrist guards, helmets and the absolute must-haves—cool shades. To some, my friend and I may have looked dorky, but to us we’re totally cool. Talk about a great workout that’s fun, with a little hint of danger—which helps to elevate your heart rate even more! The quadriceps workout you get from skating is intense and the great cardio push is a much recommended plus. What’s not to like about this type of workout? Scared of in-line skates or tossed them, post fad? No worries, grab a
bike or go ahead and rent one (there are tons of options for rentals) and push those pedals hard—propel yourself into a fun scenic workout that breaks your normal routine. It is all about shaking things up to keep exercise fresh and to keep you excited and engaged. While we’re near the beach, do something simple; take those
Blake and Gwen Beckcom Owners of Fitness Together 4019 Goldfinch 92103 619.794.0014 Upscale private suite with one-on-one personal training and nutrition guidance.
blakebeckcom@fitnesstogether.com fitnesstogether.com/missionhills betterbodysandiego.com
shoes off, get in the sand and go for a walk. We’re talking about the loose stuff, not the hard packed wet near the water line—go for the dry. It is one of the best leg workouts you can take on, because the sand works your calves like no body’s business. The instability also works your core and balance simultaneously. Taking a brisk, good long walk will give you a real sense of a work out.—sand walks even strengthen your foot and ankle complex—it’s the real deal. It’s not always about going to the gym, or group class, or the
latest fad spazzercise session, martial arts throw down, tire chuck- ing or farm animal lift. Don’t get me wrong, most of these things are good for us... well, most of them anyway, but don’t overlook what is literally in your backyard at home, in your neighborhood or general area. Be creative, the list is as endless as our summers and the returns are huge—besides, fun has its own level of reward, because fitness is as much about the psychological, as it is about the physical.
58 RAGE monthly | JULY 2011
LET’S TAKE IT
OUTSIDE
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