So we’re stuck – of sorts – and we’re bored – no question – well, Summer’s approaching – what does that even mean nowadays – and is it even possible to stay true to my fitness intentions now? Some of us are fumbling with the questions and juggling the options while trying not to run out of steam both mentally and physically. There’s good news. Exercise is made for such a time as this. It is possible to jerry up things a bit to get you some focus, me-time, and address the pressing look good – feel good factor. As always, I’m sharing based on personal experience and what I may have come across that appears interesting and reasonably safe.
Running
Discover Runs – Google Maps can actually take you places. Who knew. You can look for interesting landmarks in your area via Google maps and plan a weekly workout run to a preselected spot and back. I’ve recently come to know a few undiscovered lakes, parks, and sites of interest in my area of Queens, NY that I have never visited before now. Thanks Google!
Tempo Runs – Choose a short distance to run at a steady upbeat pace, 3-5 miles is a good place to start. This run can be done in your neighborhood, a nearby park or on a running path.
Early Morning / Sunrise / Sunset Runs – Warmer weather is here and it’s perfect for either time of the day. Run with your phone to capture these awesome moments that will ignite your heart and social media feed. Running with nature is as good a hashtag as any and better than most.
Long Runs – In times past, I would save my long run for the weekend. These days weekends are everyday and it’s easy to pick a day after deciding on a destination with noteworthy views. A bridge route always offers some good views and the opportunity to run into new territory or, as in the case here in New York City, another borough. Hey to know your city or town.
Jogging and Walking
Nature Walks – I love going to the larger parks in the area and walking or jogging the trails. Pay attention to the trail colors, which determines the level of difficulty and keeps you from walking in circles. Though, that’ll work too.
Hills, Stairs, and Track Workouts – These are really good options for those of us looking to up our fitness level through conditioning, repetition, and consistency. Power walking or jogging in any or a combination of these locales two to three times a week for 30-40 mins each time is a good workout any day. Pretty soon you’ll be running and you won’t even know it.
Hiking – One of my favorite things about the good weather is the opportunity for hiking. These days there are limits to that – the nearest park with trails – for those of us limited to public transportation. Butt for others, who can drive out to a starting point, there’s nothing like climbing a mountain with the reward of some incredible vistas for your effort. Hiking in the mountains along well known/ travelled paths are just about the best way to get your walking and exercise in. Here in New York, we have the amazing Catskills Mountains which is a treasure trove for newbies and veteran hikers alike.
Walk-Jog Intervals – This is a good anaerobic workout for those wanting to work on skill or getting into running. Choose a distance of say 1-2 miles and alternate between jogging and walking. For example; jog 2 minutes, quick walk 2 minutes. Repeat.
Cycling
Cycling is still somewhat new to me and while it was in the plan from the get-go, I didn’t really jump on – pun intended – until this pandemic forced us into isolation. Thank God for knowing, before I did, what I needed because it has turned out to be a blessing. For the most part, I’ve been going on long-ish discovery rides of my neighborhood and its environs while learning the rules of engagement on the roads. I’ve discovered some new areas and found that I can take my bike hiking – of sorts – where I ride to the park and then walk the trails, bike in tow. Turns out that is a great way to get a workout in too!
Do your due diligence folks and vary your workouts. Chances are very good that they can be fun and learning experiences. Quite so!
runningwithfaith 