Health

The Best Workout Is The One You Do

The key to staying fit is to adapt our fitness routines to our lives and not the other way around.

By Amanda Lauren2 min read
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There's a trendy workout everyone is talking about. The person who created it has over five million followers on social media. At this point, it's fair to call it a craze. Celebs won't stop crediting this program for transforming their bodies. But, to put it mildly, this workout isn't easy. So why didn't it change your life? There's just one reason - you didn't do it.

Let's Get Logical

Being constantly bombarded with fitness information is a part of our daily lives, and it can be difficult to decipher the truth. Today, Crossfit is the "best workout." The week before, barre was number one. But searching for the best workout is entirely irrelevant because there's only one simple answer - it's the one you actually do.

Fitness Isn't Easy

It doesn't matter what your goals are. Whether you want to lose weight, build muscle, or just tone your body - it all takes work. There are no shortcuts. While some programs are more clearly efficient than others, you still have to go to the gym or studio and do it. Instead of splitting hairs over expert opinions, you need to figure out what's the most sustainable routine for you personally.

Figure out what's the most sustainable routine for you personally.

Lifestyle Choices

We all make excuses about why we can't exercise. Sometimes, it's our schedules. Other times, we're trying to recover from an injury. Or it could simply be a challenge to motivate.

No one knows about this more than Nutrition Coach Chanel Kenner. Her fitness routine had to change when she became pregnant and then again after her daughter, Sophie, was born. She explained to me, "I've become much more creative and efficient with my workouts. And my goals have shifted. I like being athletic because it's when my body feels it's best. I've been an athlete most of my life, so it's in my blood, but with a baby, working out is a luxury I have to make time for."

A New Routine

Before becoming a mom, Kenner enjoyed a variety of group fitness classes. But during this new stage in her life, she simply has to do things differently. She received a Peloton bike as part of her "push present" from her husband. Peloton makes it possible to squeeze in a very effective 20-30 minute workout when the baby is asleep or otherwise occupied.

I've become much more creative and efficient with my workouts. And my goals have shifted.

Kenner also started doing lots of "Mommy and Me" workouts, including yoga, barre, boot camp, and HIIT training. She revealed, "I modify movements quite a bit, and have to take lots of breaks to get a toy she's thrown or entertain her. It's not easy. But taking care of myself is just as important as taking care of her."

Make A Plan

Think about your specific challenges when it comes to fitness. There is always a solution. Is it lack of time? Then think about ways you can fit shorter, but more intense workouts into your schedule. Do you live far from a gym or studio? Consider investing in a Peloton or subscribing to a streaming program or app. Do you need motivation when you workout? Then hire a trainer or try group classes. If boredom is your issue, then mix up your routine or consider getting ClassPass, so you can try lots of different studios, activities, and instructors. As long you're working out regularly, it will all be effective.