Workout Song of the Week: Paramore

The sudden turn to summer-like weather here in DC has inspired me to choose a more uplifting song as the workout song this week.  Thanks to Paramore releasing their new album this week, I actually have the perfect song: "Still Into You"

Anger can be a great motivator for a good workout, but happiness can too!  This song deals with joy of knowing that even after being with someone for a long time, you can still get butterflies around them and have fun with them.  Love doesn't have to get stale!  Thinking about that can really cheer you up, and sometimes a positive, uplifting message can be just what you need to have a great workout.  This song is particularly upbeat and makes you want to dance your happiness into the world, or least that's what it does to me.  I hope you all enjoy it!

Weekly Tip: Have Fun!

In honor of my Spring kickball league starting tonight, this week's tip is simply to HAVE FUN with whatever physical activity you decide to do.  The concept behind this is very simple: the more you enjoy doing something, the more likely you are to keep doing it.  When it comes to starting an exercise plan, you have to choose activities that you know you enjoy so that you don't burn out early and completely give up.  If you hate running and you think that overnight you're going to start running 5 miles 5 days a week, you're sorely mistaken.  Choosing something more enjoyable, like a brisk walk or bike ride, will make your exercise plan more realistic and your goals more attainable.

For example, in the beginning of this challenge I discovered swimming for exercise.  Swimming has always been something I enjoyed, so turning that fun activity into quality exercise time means I'm more excited about sticking with it.  I also have my kickball team, and while it doesn't always give me the best workout, it's a way to get outside and be somewhat active with my friends, which is why I keep coming back to it.  If you like dance, try signing up for some classes at a dance studio.  If you enjoy team sports, consider joining a baseball league, etc.

Getting in shape and exercising more does not mean you have to make yourself miserable 7 days a week.  You just have to figure out what you like and then try to do those activities more often.  My plan so far throughout this challenge has been to stay realistic about my goals, and I know that workouts that feel like torture will not hold my interest for very long, no matter how effective they might be.

So get out there and start having fun with your workouts!