Give Yourself Priority in the New Year

As a teen, my father used to challenge me to do 50 pushups. I worked up to it and eventually did that many. I recall a new boyfriend meeting my parents for the first time and my dad bragging about my ability to do pushups. He even had me demonstrate. I don’t recall the boyfriend’s reaction, only the face of my dad, all lit up.

I tried to do pushups earlier this fall and failed miserably. My father would not have been proud. Needing motivation, I joined Anytime Fitness and even participated in a couple of personal training sessions. With an instructor watching my form and cheering me on, bringing back memories of my youth, I persevered. I’ve increased my strength. It could happen for you, too.

2022 is the year to give ourselves priority, beginning with caring for our health. Exercise is not only beneficial for our physical health, but our mental health too, giving us an endorphin rush needed on these short, cold days. It’s also a great way to work out frustrations or stress.

During some of the most stressful years of teaching, I joined Baraboo’s karate studio. I worried the commitment was just going to compound my stress level, but building strength, learning the moves and how to maintain focus, saved my sanity. I’m not alone.

I spoke to a woman who is a caregiver. Her time at the gym is a healthy release, something she does for herself. She said, “Anytime Fitness is wonderful. I’m able to strengthen my muscles and my outlook. I can feel myself relaxing, laughing and having fun. I need that as much as the physical fitness.” I also met a young mother who feels her short time away from her child makes her a better mom. The quote Take care of yourself; you can’t pour from an empty cup is an excellent motto.

Let’s consider a new year’s challenge in which we give ourselves priority with a regular exercise program. If going to a gym isn’t an option, you can still prioritize your health with these alternatives.

1. Form a neighborhood group and work out in someone’s home. Being accountable to another person will keep motivation high.

2. Join one of the growing pickleball groups that meet indoors (“Just-A-Game” has one) and have such a great time you don’t realize you’re exercising. If pickleball isn’t your thing, check out area classes such as yoga, zumba, or strength building.

3. Explore the many online options (YouTube has a ton) and choose from stretching, strengthening, or aerobic to name just a few. Or simply download an app such as “7 Minute Fitness Challenge” and set a weekly schedule. In just seven minutes you can get in a great workout—and one that includes doing 10 pushups.

4. Make it fun. Walk or jog on the treadmill while watching an enjoyable TV show or prep for healthy meals while listening to your favorite music or a compelling podcast.

According to healthline.com, it takes an average of 66 days to form a habit. If we begin an exercise routine by January 1, it will become an ingrained habit before the start of spring. By then, I just might be back to pumping out those pushups.

Consider giving yourself a gift in the new year. Prioritize your health.

2 Replies to “Give Yourself Priority in the New Year”

Joy and Dale Maher

Dale is 84 soon. He just paid up for another year at Pulse (3 times a week). It is a very social event for him, as well. I just walk the Wal-Mart aisles while he is there. Then dance in the kitchen sometimes. Our 3 daughters (teachers) also have scheduled work out times. I am enjoying your posts, Amy. Merry Christmas.

I’ve found that planning & prioritizing exercise helps make exercise become a habit. I’ve got a great 7-minute workout post with 7 easy exercises, one minute each that takes almost no time at all. (OK, 7 minutes!) Even 7 minutes has proven mental and cardiac benefits! Here’s the link! https://susanberkkoch.com/blog/does-the-7-minute-workout-work/

Good for you to start working out, Amy!

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