With the explosion of online workouts and bombardment of exercise YouTube videos, how do we know what should we be doing and which exercises are actually good for us? Have you found yourself jumping from one so-called exercise leaf to another? Or are you actually stuck in the “I have always done so and so” state of mind?
As online workouts are here to stay, and it is essential to find a source that is reliable and pays attention to the safety of the program through the video tutorials they are delivering. Taking time to research our new instructors, can literally save us from a painful experience!
As the instructor is most likely unable to see us whilst in the flow, all responsibility essentially lies with the receiver. So, before committing to the experience, find someone, regardless of style and type of workout, who really cares about not only the fun aspect and calorie count, but most importantly the safety of the movements performed! The instructor should be able to deliver lost of teaching points relating to the exercise performed, eliminating, or at least minimising risks. They should be able to provide you with options to make the exercise easier, or harder, and even adapts it to your needs if you are not in the position to perform it at all. Expect knowledge, demand a solid delivery, and settle for nothing else, because your very body is in their virtual hands!
Keeping the above in mind, choose a variety of sessions from joy bringing, core strengthening and relaxing to those that make you reach the highest of heart rates, and those that turn you into a warrior. And if the sessions agree with your needs and make you feel better (even if initially that’s not the case!), then create a new routine incorporating them into your day. How often, you ask?
Get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week, or a combination of both. Essentially, greater amounts of exercise will provide a greater health benefit. Ideally, reach out to the trainer you are following, and ask away. They should be able to help you find balance!
Agata Davies 