Body – Jenna Jamieson, Author

Believe in yourself and you shall achieve!

By Jenna Jamieson | September 28, 2015 | Comments 0 Comment

It’s been a long time since I have had the chance to write, to inspire, to motivate, to share fitness advice, and engage with readers. I am excited to have the opportunity (and time) to make this a priority again. After all, helping others is a passion, a goal, and a dream.

I haven’t been conscientious about fitness, nutrition, health, and wellness my whole life. In fact, I actually didn’t care about it at all in high school and weighed about fifteen to twenty pounds more than I do now. I didn’t care about working out, taking rest breaks to clear my mind, or eating fruits and veggies. Once I graduated from high school and started college, I realized I needed a way to clear my mind and relieve stress. I also wanted to develop healthy habits that I would carry with me through life. That’s when I changed my life and started working out as my personal way of clearing my mind, de-stressing, and making my workout “me” time. I changed my life. I changed my future. I developed a workout schedule, nutrition habits, and maintained a routine that would fit my lifestyle.

During this time, I tried several different types of exercise and different workout schedules to figure out what I liked, what I didn’t like, and what I thought worked best for me. First, I started working out at my house. I would go on jogs outside each day or jump rope. It was an effective (and cheap) workout and made me feel better once I was done. Eventually I bought a treadmill and usually ran five to ten miles each day. I liked this because I could fit it in when it was convenient and I didn’t have to think about the weather. I stuck with that for a long time, probably a few years. I got bored with the treadmill and wanted a change in pace. I decided I would start going to a gym rather than working out at home. I started using the bike, elliptical, row machine, and occasionally the treadmill along with the weight machines. I got much more variety which was great.

Then, one day I started experiencing pain in my shins and ankles. I went to an athletic trainer and physical therapist to see what I had done that was causing me to feel pain. They said the machine use was causing rubbing on my joints so I started nine weeks of physical therapy to help loosen up my body, joints, and muscles. It started to help, but the physical therapists suggested lessening my machine use as that can often be hard on your joints. It was back to the thinking board. I decided to invest in fitness DVDs and workouts (which are very expensive I might add)! This allowed me to workout from home, let me do my workout whenever it fit into my schedule, made me be accountable, and forced me to use my own body weight during the workouts. I found that when I did workout at a gym it was easy to change my fitness days or routine. I could easily skip the stop at the gym causing me to rotate a workout day or two during the week. The fitness DVDs helped to fix that problem! I always had the DVDs at my fingertips and could do my workout at my convenience – no excuses!

So, you might be thinking she just rambled on and on about working out from home, working out from a gym, having sore joints, etc. The point being that sometimes fitness changes over time. Sometimes you are completely dedicated (like I am now) or completely not interested like I was in high school, BUT it is never too late to start making changes to lead a healthier lifestyle. Small changes, large changes, or just adding more changes that will help you sustain your lifestyle. You might start working out at your house, as I did, then change to a gym, and then end up back at your house, in a fitness club, or creating your own walking group, etc.

Regardless of what you choose is best for you, there are always resources and people that can help you achieve your fitness goals. You can find resources all over the web, there are cookbooks and exercise books everywhere, but one of the most important things you can do for yourself to further your health journey is believe in yourself. In life, whatever your goals are personally or professionally, you have to take your goals and believe in them, own them, have a strong passion for them, and make them part of you. That’s part of succeeding in fitness, health, nutrition, and wellness (and in life). Own up to what you put in your mouth, challenge yourself to a workout, and remember to focus on your goals. If you can do that, you can do about anything and that includes changing your health habits for the better.

~jj

#ProjectKindnessBook

#AlwaysChooseKindness

You’ll only regret the workouts you don’t do!

By Jenna Jamieson | June 1, 2015 | Comments 0 Comment

We all have days when we feel unmotivated, don’t want to workout, feel lazy, want to take a nap, or just want to do other things, but on those days it is important to still do some type of workout, whether it be a short one or long one, cardio or yoga, or a quick run. Sometimes thinking about my favorite person who inspires me such as an athlete is enough to motivate me! If you are having one of those days, think twice before you skip your workout and remember all the positives of a great workout, including the reasons below!

100 Reasons to Exercise Now (Courtesy of Pinterest)

Because it makes you feel confident
Because it helps you get stronger
Because exercise helps combat depression
Because you’ll feel proud of yourself
Because you have goals you want to reach
Because you’ll feel bad if you don’t
Because you want to move forward, not backward
Because it burns more calories than not working out
Because it improves your heart health
Because you want a great butt
Because it prevents diabetes
Because you want to be a good example to your kids
Because you want to feel good in your clothes
Because it reduces your risk of cancer
Because your body was made to move
Because you want to be an athlete
Because you want to look better
Because it lifts your mood
Because you want to stand taller
Because it reduces back pain
Because it feels good
Because it makes you feel accomplished
Because you spend most of your day on your butt
Because swimsuit season is always coming
Because strong is the new skinny
Because dieting only works so much
Because it strengthens your bones, too
Because it helps you lose weight
Because it allows you to eat more food
Because it’s the best way to spend “me” time
Because it helps you de-stress
Because it’s cheaper than therapy
Because you want a strong core
Because you want to take care for yourself
Because you take pride in your body
Because it strengthens your legs
Because it helps your clothes fit better
Because you want to push yourself
Because you are capable of more than you ever imagined
Because moving your body feels good
Because it keeps your mind sharp
Because it helps you beat belly bloat
Because it helps you sleep better at night
Because it gives you energy
Because you want to stay healthy as you age
Because you want to look younger
Because you want toned arms
Because it improves your balance
Because it burns off last night’s dessert
Because it boosts your immune system
Because sweat is sexy
Because you want to live longer
Because you want to get better at your game
Because you want to catch someone’s eye
Because exercisers earn more money
Because you’re more likely to eat better when you exercise
Because you want to shave time off your running pace
Because you want to breathe easier
Because you want to see the scale drop
Because exercise improves your sex life
Because you are worth it
Because being fit makes everything in life better
Because you promised yourself that you would
Because you deserve a better life
Because it’ll help you drink more water
Because you want to do real push-ups
Because it reduces your health care costs
Because you’ll miss fewer days of work
Because you want to create a new future for yourself
Because it’ll help you like what you see in the mirror
Because it makes clothing shopping more fun
Because you want to look and feel incredible
Because exercising can be fun
Because it’ll give your skin a glow
Because it’s a good way to spend time with your friends
Because it’ll help you prevent the middle-age spread
Because it reduces your blood pressure
Because you don’t want to let yourself go
Because you don’t want to squeeze into an airplane or rollercoaster seat
Because it strengthens your spirit
Because it’s a cheap way to entertain yourself
Because you’ll be able to reward yourself
Because you need a reason to wear those new workout clothes
Because you’re tired of being tired
Because not working out is not going to get you very far
Because it’s a great way to spend time outside
Because you made a commitment to yourself
Because you’re tired of starting over
Because there will always be another wedding, vacation or reunion
Because you’re not a quitter
Because it improves your cholesterol
Because it boosts your metabolism
Because it prevents age-related muscle loss
Because if you can do this, you can do anything
Because a fit body is a healthy body
Because it beats sitting on the couch
Because everyone has at least 10 minutes to spare
Because you want to be stronger than your excuses
Because not working out isn’t working out for you
Because the only workout you ever regret is the one you skip

Now, GO WORKOUT! You will feel much better once you do!

~jj

Workout shoes matter…a lot!

By Jenna Jamieson | March 19, 2015 | Comments 0 Comment

My boyfriend and I recently went shopping and he ended up buying another pair of running shoes. This is something that people don’t always think about, but it actually is very important. Your shoes can either enhance and help you through your workout or they could be hindering you, causing damage and pain during your workout. There are several things to remember about your workout shoes: 1) Try to keep a general estimate of the number of miles you put on your shoes 2) Have a dedicated pair of shoes that you only use to workout 3) Be sure to find shoes that are specific to your activity–in other words, have running shoes for running, interval/circuit/cross training shoes if you’re doing multi-activity training, walking shoes for walking, and so on.

1) Be sure to estimate the number of miles you are putting on your shoes. Shoes need to be replaced typically after about 500 miles, but can range anywhere from 400-600 miles depending on your level of activity, type of activity, and how much “wear and tear” that is caused by your workout, or naturally occurs over time from extensive use. This is important because when your shoes start to breakdown, the padding which lends support to your feet starts to wear down. Further, your shoe laces get stretched over time and no longer keep your shoes snug and in place causing your shoe to be loose, causing your foot to lose valuable support.

2) Be sure you have a dedicated pair of workout shoes, or if possible two or three pairs that you can rotate to keep from having to replace shoes as often and to stretch their life a bit longer. I am definitely guilty of not switching mine out enough–shoes are expensive, so if you don’t either, you aren’t alone! Additionally, be sure to take shoes off properly—don’t step on the heels to take them off or pull them off without unlacing them. This causes damage and stretching to your shoes altering their protection and support to your feet. P.S. Be sure you are wearing the right size, too! This is vital and can prevent sores, chafing, and rough skin on your feet. If you aren’t sure, just ask to be sized, ask for advice, or even ask if they have a machine or computerized test that can look at each foot to determine where you put the most pressure. These are key components to not only successfully finding the right pair of shoes, but also to keeping your feet healthy and happy! 😉

3) Lastly, and maybe one of the most important tips to remember is to have shoes that are specific to the activity you are performing. Activity-specific shoes are vital to help with your overall success, performance, and can help enhance your ability to last longer, go farther, and challenge yourself more without pain, discomfort, or damage to your feet and heels. After all, your feet are a pretty important part of your body, so be sure to take care of them, appreciate them, and cherish them!

Maybe this gives you an excuse to go shoe shopping?! Or just an opportunity to reevaluate your workout shoes to ensure you have the right type and size!

~jj

Relax, Rest, & Recover!

By Jenna Jamieson | March 3, 2015 | Comments 0 Comment

We all like our recovery and rest days, right?! After all, recovery days are good for you, just like everything is (or can be) as long as it’s in moderation! It gives us a chance to rest our muscles and rejuvenate our bodies, but resting doesn’t mean or give you a pass to sit around and eat junk food! While it is great to have rest and recover days, it is also important to note that it is not an excuse to cram in the junk food and veg on the couch all day. It means that you might take a break from your cardio workouts, strength training routines, and heavy exercise regimes. On my rest days, I might enjoy a leisurely walk or do some extra stretching to help loosen up my body during my off days. You might consider a light yoga class to stretch out or a game in the park with your kids.

Each week, you should have at least 1 day to recover, but no more than 3 total days of recovery during the 7 day week. After all, you don’t want to be working out less than the days you are recovering/taking off. You should, and I do emphasize should, be making yourself workout at least more than half of the 7 day week, so workout at least 4 days or more if you can! On the flipside of that, please do remember that one full recovery day allows your body to rest and recover so that you are able to put forth your full potential, push yourself forward, and challenge yourself while still having enough energy to do so. If you are too sore or too tired from your previous workout days, you won’t be able to have a successful and challenging workout.

Just keep in the back of your mind that you should be working out more than half of the week so don’t take more than 3 days off during a single week period! Happy exercising with a day of rest or two to relax, rest, and recover! Just don’t take advantage of those days off by taking too many! 😉

~jj

Be the best YOU!

By Jenna Jamieson | January 23, 2015 | Comments 0 Comment

I was listening to fitness segments throughout the week and reading small health oriented articles, but I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to talk about. It’s a new year and I think it’s a great opportunity to reestablish yourself from time to time.

We often read or listen to lots of different opinions, people, and news sources regarding health that range from how to lose weight to how to fit more vegetables into our diet and so on and so forth. This is a great opportunity to form your own views and opinions, and I do specifically mean YOUR views and opinions and how they relate to your workout, lifestyle, and goals. We frequently try to use someone else’s motivation, someone else’s diet success, or someone’s else’s workout routine in order to have or see success in ourselves. For example, even reading my blog for tips, tricks, and ideas is doing this, which is great, just remember to make changes accordingly! 😉 Once you read or listen to these diets, nutrition suggestions, and workout routines you must determine what will work best for you and adapt or change it based on your lifestyle. Rather than using a replica and thinking it will create the exact same effects and changes, you need to remember that we are all at different fitness levels and have different experiences. We are all YOU-nique (unique) with different body shapes and sizes, which means we respond differently to different exercises and different foods so we must be cognizant of that when we try something that someone else has had success with.

It is important to remember that you should take suggestions and make adaptions to determine what works best for you! For example, if a journal keeps you accountable and helps you then you should consider that (I suggested that in a previous post…see Fitness and nutrition goals to the rescue!). If looking in the mirror daily is a great reminder to workout and keep pushing towards your goals then do it! If jumping on the scale to see what that 3 digit number is going to be then by all means jump right on! In other words, don’t let a study, an article, or a news program tell you what you should or should not be doing. Listen to your own body, follow your own lifestyle, and accomplish your goals by adapting programs, tips, tricks, and fitness routines to fit for you. In other words, do whatever triggers your inner fitness and remember that sometimes the biggest challenges and obstacles that you face when working toward your fitness and wellness goals in 2015 may end up being the best things in life!

Happy New Year and may this be the year for new goals, new accomplishments, and new transformations!

~jj

Stay-cation or vacation, just make it an active one!

By Jenna Jamieson | January 7, 2015 | Comments 0 Comment

Sorry for the almost-a-month long hiatus. I took a short break to spend time with family over the holidays, enjoy some relaxation, and go on vacation with my boyfriend to Europe. Our time in Europe was quite lovely and what I liked most about it was that it was an active vacation! After walking mile after magnificent mile going from place to place in Europe I realized how much I absolutely love it there. I have always dreamed of having a job where I can either walk, bike, or bike/walk to work. That is something that was a majority in Europe (biking and walking everywhere and by everywhere I literally do mean everywhere, everywhere, everywhere 😉 ) and is probably one reason why you don’t see many, if any, obese people there. I would say Americans could learn a thing or two from them! I found it to be refreshing and fun, and a little exhausting, too! My point is that whether you go on a vacation like me or enjoy a stay-cation at home remember that you can always make it an active vacation, which is my favorite kind! You can go to Europe where staying active will not only be easy, but also unavoidable 😉 You can go on a beach vacation and take walks or jogs along the beach or you can go on a mountain vacation and go skiing. Just remember that when you go on vacation, don’t just throw your workout out the window. Consider small workouts, walks, and exercise routines that will keep you moving. If you’re enjoying a stay-cation, consider hikes, organizing and cleaning to keep you busy, or other small routines that keep you active.

Once I got home and gave myself a few days to recover from the vacation and get back into the correct time zone after the jet lag, I got myself right back into my workout routine. The week I would be starting back my workouts just happened to be Christmas week, but after taking 9 days off it was important to get myself back into the groove of life. I got up Christmas morning and decided to hit the workout room before any Christmas festivities got under way. Plus, all my Christmas fun is typically on Christmas Eve. Anyway, back to this Christmas workout when my mom decides to semi-jokingly and semi-sarcastically say, “You just have to workout, don’t you?” As if somewhat sickened, yet proud that I hold the will and motivation to workout on Christmas Day when many people do not hold the same discipline or expectations. I know she knew in her mind that either way no matter what that I was going to workout because we had no plans or restrictions that would prevent me from fitting in a quick 30 to 40 minute workout. Not to mention, for me, it is important to stay true to myself and my health, meaning I make it a priority even during the holiday season. As I expressed to my mom, it’s the time of year when we all tend to eat a little more, eat a little less healthy, and eat until we feel like we might pop because we are so full.

My point? Remember that you should try to keep the promises you make to yourself and goals you have for yourself, even during the holiday season. That means sticking to your workouts, taking walks, and doing short exercise routines in-between holiday parties, festivities, etc so your friends and family understand that health is very important to you. This keeps you in your normal routine and rhythm so that come January you are already in your same workout routine and schedule rather than taking a long hiatus from Thanksgiving through the New Year when you eat more calories and can easily slip into the winter slumber of not working out. If you take a hiatus be prepared for a difficult time when you start back up again. It makes it that much harder to get back into the swing of things, get your body and routine back in sync, and fulfill new resolutions that you should have never given up or done away with for a month to begin with. Don’t feel guilty if this is what you did, but consider making changes next year to keep your healthy lifestyle routine all year round!

So whether you are going on vacation, enjoying a stay-cation, or intertwining the two as I did during my holiday season, make it an active one that keeps you moving, gets you going, and helps you maintain a healthy lifestyle in the process!

Happy New Year, may 2015 be the year for exercising, good eating, and healthy lifestyle choices for you and yours!

~jj

Small progress should make you happy!

By Jenna Jamieson | August 23, 2014 | Comments 0 Comment

Small progress may be frustrating, but small progress is better than no progress, moving backwards, or having setbacks. While you may wish to see more progress in terms of weight loss, muscle tone and definition, or in your energy level, remember that progress takes time, especially when it comes to changing your habits and body. It is safest to see slow, steady results that are consistent and maintained over time.

Changing your habits and making changes to your body through exercise and nutrition can take time (and should take time). Quick weight loss and sudden food changes such as eliminating caffeine, sugar, or carbohydrates may not only be dangerous, but also may present side effects including mood changes, increased anxiety and stress levels, or even could be harmful if you have rapid weight loss in a short period of time.

It is important to be happy with small milestones as those add up and help you achieve your overarching fitness and nutrition goals. So as you workout and make fitness and nutrition goals (see Fitness and nutrition goals to the rescue!) remember that your small progress should be motivation to keep you going and further your desire to see your end result. My boyfriend likes to sign up for 5ks as a goal to work toward for himself and is now signed up for a half marathon in October. It is a great goal and is something that he can slowly train for. He signed up for the half marathon in April to give himself plenty of time to train and work up to the 13.1 miles he will be running. Setting large goals for yourself that are 3-6 months or more out is great because it allows you to slowly make progress over time. For example, my boyfriend can set a goal of running 3.5 miles for 3-4 weeks (he can already do that because that’s about the distance of 5ks) followed by increasing his distance to half of the marathon of about 6.5 miles and do that for about 2-3 weeks and then do three fourths of the race by increasing to about 9.75 miles for 2-3 weeks and then do the full 13.1 miles for at least one week. This is just an example, so do what you feel the most comfortable with and works best for you based on your fitness level and experience.

Just remember that building yourself up by slowly making progress over time is much healthier than pushing yourself too hard in a short period, losing weight rapidly, or cutting out food or food groups too quickly. Small progress is not only great progress, but will make life less stressful over time and is proven to make it easier to maintain and sustain.

~jj

Superhero in action…busy building muscle!

By Jenna Jamieson | August 7, 2014 | Comments 0 Comment

Last week my boyfriend unintentionally came in to see me while I was working out. He didn’t realize I wasn’t done working out yet, but it did throw off my rhythm for the last 15 minutes (cool down portion) of my workout. It is important to realize that working out each day is a chance to take a break from your normal activities. It gives your mind and body a break from the routine of life while giving you fresh energy.

I workout almost everyday and mostly so my mind and body has its own time away from everything and everyone. Therefore, when I workout, everything and everyone waits. I put music on and get into a different mode. I do not stop for Facebook, Twitter, or any other social media. Instead I avoid it because how can you really be working out and clearing your mind if you are on social media?! I literally take a break from everything…tv, internet, social media, technology, socialization, etc. Whatever might be on social media, any posts you are tagged in, or texts you are sent can wait. They will still be there when you are done. Unless there is a medical or family emergency that cannot wait, I suggest you consider doing the same thing. Give your mind and body a break…from everything! You will be happy once you start doing your workouts without interruptions and in peace so that you can actually wind down, refresh, and have time to yourself. After all, your workout may be the only time all day that you ever get to yourself. Take advantage of it!

Realize there is reason behind not allowing interruptions or pausing during workouts. Once you are in your workout, you get into a rhythm and pace that keeps you going and motivates you not to stop. Being interrupted can throw off your rhythm and your workout, making parts of your workout stressful or chaotic if you lose your motivation and pace. My tip to you is to make it a habit to not stop in the middle of workouts!

Aren’t convinced that interruptions, distractions, etc are a problem when working out? You should think again and that’s because you will get better results and see results more quickly if you maintain a steady pace while keeping the correct form. In other words, try to maintain pace without stopping for interruptions or distractions such as children, pets, etc so that you can consistently keep your heart rate up. And on a side note, how do you think athletes keep in shape?! Through heavy discipline and training without and yes, I repeat, without interruptions or distractions! They train and continue to train each day with a strict and steady regimen that keeps them on track to improve their mind and body.

As for the superhero reference in the title (in case you are wondering), it refers to the Under Armour dri-fit workout shirts I wear when I workout…I have a Batgirl, Supergirl, and Wonder Woman one! So each time I set out on my workout, I envision myself as a girl on a mission. A mission to conquer my workout as Batgirl, Supergirl, or Wonder Woman! It’s more fun this way and it’s healthy for us all to have a little bit of kid in us at heart! 😉

~jj

Simplicity might just be key!

By Jenna Jamieson | June 30, 2014 | Comments 0 Comment

One constant for most people is that their schedule is always filled, life is always busy, and there never seems to be enough time in the day to do everything on the “to do” list. People often want short, simple, and easy workouts and quick, healthy meals that keep us on track to maintain or reach our fitness goals. Why? Because spending time with family and friends is what most, if not all, of us want. We basically want the cake and to eat it too! Shocking, right? Well, obviously, not really. That is the majority, not the minority, so if you feel this way, you can rest assured that you are not alone. So, what can you do to still make the most of your day, save time, and not feel like your entire day is dedicated to health and wellness? Let’s face it, we are often so busy we don’t necessarily think about all the choices (or lack of) that we are making that impact our health.

My solution (and challenge to you) is to find several small and simple (key word is SIMPLE!) health oriented things that you can do that will help change the big picture over time, then incorporate those into your schedule. I will give you an example of some fitness and health choices that will assist you in creating a more simple, less overwhelming lifestyle.

First off, start with steps and walking. Grab a fitness tracker, a very basic one that counts steps is all you need. If you prefer a more fancier fitness watch/tracker, by all means, get what suits you best. It used to be that 10k a day was the fad and maybe it still is, but don’t stick with fad diets and exercises. Strive for what works, so get your count to 14k a day! Yes, that seems like a lot of steps, but think of walking to the bathroom, in the kitchen, at work, etc. And just in case you aren’t convinced that getting steps are great for you, walking helps with digestion, is great for your bones, and can improve your mood! You can do it and it really isn’t difficult. You may be surprised by how many you get!

Next, the fabulous 5: basic weights, lunges, crunches, squats, and push-ups. This will help build strength and tone your body. Do sets that work best for you. I suggest 3-5 sets of 10-15 reps depending on your lifestyle and fitness level. You can do these in the morning when you wake up, in the evening to de-stress, while you are outside, while you are watching television, etc and it takes a total of 15 to 20 minutes, if that.

The next one may be somewhat difficult for many, but it is important and will make the biggest difference on your waistline and energy level. Avoid baked goods. These are salty, sugary foods that provide little to no energy. While you avoid cookies, brownies, and cakes, turn to water. Drink at least a gallon of water a day to stay full, focused, and alert, aiding in keeping your energy level high. Also, turn to fruit and veggie smoothies that you make at home. Buy frozen fruits if you are rushed for time or buy fresh fruit and have it pre-cut and in containers so it is ready to be thrown in the blender in the morning or evening. (This doesn’t mean you can’t have ice cream, this specifically eliminates baked goods, BUT like I continually say, everything in moderation, so don’t go overboard with the ice cream!) 😉

That’s it…simple as that! 5 small and simple tips to incorporate into your busy schedule so that healthy choices are being made without even thinking about them! 1) 14k a day 2) Fabulous 5 exercises 3) No baked goods 4) Smoothies 5) 1 gallon of water per day. That’s it, an easy exercise and nutrition guide to fit into each day without a workout or a special diet.

~jj

Workout lifestyle…when & where should you workout?

By Jenna Jamieson | May 15, 2014 | Comments 0 Comment

I have to say most days I look very forward to my workout. It’s the “me” time of the day when I can de-stress and be away from everyone and everything (computers, technology, phone, etc). Anything that is bothering me such as studying all night, an argument, or even just daily stress can simply be moved aside for the moment so that I can get a good sweat! One thing that’s important about exercising is to recognize that when and where you exercise can make a big difference in your energy level, mood, results, and how enjoyable your workout will be.

First, when should you exercise? In order to maximize your results, you should consider when the best time is for you to exercise based on your schedule, energy level, and personal characteristics. For example, if you are not a morning person and you work at 8am, consider an evening workout rather than a 6am workout. If you are a morning person and work at 8am, consider the 6am workout as a possible option. On the other hand, if working out helps you wake up because you are not a morning person consider an exercise routine that will help with that balance such as yoga. It is important to remember that it takes energy to get through a workout so try to find a time when you have a high energy level and are not tired or lethargic. It will be different for everyone so determine when you can maximize your workout results based on your schedule and lifestyle. For me, I workout best in the evening. I feel energetic, look forward to clearing my mind, and my body feels ready to workout. Remember sleep is vital to having energy so make sure you are getting enough sleep consistently each night. A night with little sleep, followed by a full night’s rest, followed by another night with not much sleep throws off your body and is a sure way to not only dread your workout, but also make it hard to do.

Second, where should you exercise? This is an interesting and very subjective question because it really depends on a person’s personal fitness goals and schedule. Possibilities might include at home, at a gym, or outside. Personally, I like to workout at home because I can alter the environment to fit me. For example, I utilize the pictures of my family and friends on the wall to influence me and encourage me to get through my workout. I also like having quotes and inspirational sayings on the wall that I connect with. If you’re at the gym and don’t have the luxury of choosing what is on the walls, bring a picture of your favorite celebrity crush or in my case I would probably bring Andy Murray because of his killer work ethic as a tennis player or Jennifer Garner because of her portrayal of badass spy Sydney Bristow! 😉 It could also be quotes/sayings or something inspirational. There are no requirements on what you can use, but make sure it is something that you connect with and helps push you through your workout.

Third, how do these impact your overall workout? Easy answers to this one! Happiness, efficiency, and results! Once you can find a rhythm that works for you, it makes working out easier and less thought has to be put into it.

So, get your workout on in your garage, in your room, in the gym, or outside and do it in the morning, in the afternoon, or in the evening, but just remember to be sure to DO IT! It’s all subjective, so find what works for you and don’t give up! We all have good days and bad days, but if you can find a schedule and rhythm that works, then you will be more likely to follow through and more likely to enjoy it!

~jj