Are You Getting The Most From Your Fitness Routine?

Today’s gyms have a staggering array of fitness equipment, in fact, many people comment that they can work muscles they didn’t know they had! The brains at the heart of the fitness industry recognize an almost insatiable thirst for new machines to work our bodies in ways they haven’t been worked before. But is all this equipment really doing us any good?

When you use the latest machine to build a muscle so obscure even your physical therapist would struggle to locate it, ask yourself whether you think this muscle should be used in this way. Sure, the equipment manufacturer will try to convince you that your life will be much improved if you develop your illiobicolatismus muscle – okay, I did make that one up :0) – but just stop for a moment and think whether your body would naturally use it in this way?

Movement Not Muscles

Every muscle in your body is involved in some way or another in every movement you make. Whether it’s Flexing a limb, preventing injury to a joint or stabilizing the rest of your structure, every movement involves every muscle in an integrated and coordinated way. Could exercising individual muscles with modern gym equipment upset our natural coordination? When you are using a high-tech machine ask yourself whether it is a movement you would use in your sport or daily life. If it isn’t then how are you benefiting from it?

Being In The Moment

Another question that needs to be asked is whether working out in this manner really enhances our well being. Of course exercise does produce feel good hormones such as endorphins but does it engage and challenge our whole organism? Is using an exercise bike or treadmill whilst watching MTV as good for you as a ride or jog outside? In my opinion, unless we are fully ‘present’ or ‘in the moment’ we do not get the full benefit from any activity. How invigorating is a walk in the woods at autumn time? It’s not just the activity, how you feel and interact with your surroundings is vitally important as you will get a whole body/ mind experience and not just an aerobic work out.

Remember how much fun you had as a child playing basketball or soccer with your friends. A good competitive game would challenge you on all levels as you had to think about strategy, tactics and technique. Your brain, all of your muscles and cardio-vascular system would get a great workout not to mention your self-confidence, social skills and ability to negotiate.

Read More: How to Motivate Yourself to Stick to a Workout Routine

Alternative Sports Activities to Gym Workouts

I believe participating in a sport will offer us all of these benefits and then some. Why not learn a new sport or pick up where you left off before you thought fitness was about going to a gym. Look at your physical activities as a way to develop your whole self and you will learn skills applicable to life in general. And, you will get fit and stay fit in the process anyway.

1. Swimming

Swimming is often dubbed the perfect workout, engaging almost every muscle group. It combines cardiovascular exercise with resistance training due to the water's density. This full-body workout increases lung capacity, tones muscles, and enhances cardiovascular health, making it a superior alternative to gym routines. Plus, water buoyancy reduces the impact on joints, decreasing the risk of injury and making it ideal for all ages.

2. Rowing

Rowing, whether on water or a machine, offers intense full-body conditioning. It primarily targets the back, legs, arms, and core. The repetitive motion combined with resistance provides both strength training and cardiovascular benefits. This low-impact sport can burn significant calories while also improving muscle tone and cardiovascular endurance.

3. Trail Running

Trail running provides a dynamic alternative to the treadmill. The unpredictable terrain challenges stability and engages different muscle groups compared to flat surfaces. Besides building stamina, it also improves coordination and balance. The natural environment can offer therapeutic mental benefits, reducing stress and boosting mood.

4. Rock Climbing

Rock climbing is a powerful workout for both the upper and lower body. Scaling walls or natural rock formations demands strength, endurance, flexibility, and problem-solving skills. Climbers engage their core, back, arms, and legs, promoting muscle definition and strength. Plus, the mental aspect of navigating routes enhances focus and determination.

5. Dancing

Dancing isn't just a recreational activity; it's a comprehensive workout. From ballet to salsa, each dance form offers unique fitness benefits. Regular dancing boosts cardiovascular health, improves balance, agility, and coordination, and tones various muscle groups. It also stimulates the brain, enhances memory, and uplifts the spirit.

Of course the gym still offers an excellent place to ‘get fit’ but stay focused and ‘in the moment’ and you will benefit more than just your ‘physical’ self.