For many people, committing to an exercise regimen can be challenging. In fact, a staggering 82.5% of Canadians do not achieve the recommended amount of physical activity and live a mostly sedentary lifestyle. This is due to several factors, like people feeling a sense of dread or getting intimidated when working out. By gaining a better understanding of what is involved in various fitness activities, it will be easier to get started and find something you enjoy. Here are some fitness activities to try and the gear you need to prepare:
Yoga
For those who prefer to stay indoors or focus on strength and flexibility, yoga is definitely an exercise to try. It is a fairly simple fitness activity to start with because it only requires one piece of equipment: a sturdy yoga mat. When choosing the right mat, ensure that you’re getting one with the right thickness and length. Even if you aren’t doing vigorous yoga practices like Vinyasa or Ashtanga, it’s best to invest in a mat that is at least a quarter of an inch thick.
A great budget-friendly option is the Yoga Accessories 1/4” Thick High Density Yoga Mat, which not only has great cushioning but length as well. While spongier than other mats, it still provides a decent grip and is a portable option that you can take wherever you go.
Running
Running is one of the easiest fitness activities to try when starting a new exercise regimen or simply choosing a new sport. Depending on your preference, you can either run on treadmills or any of Kitsilano’s trails, such as the West Side Run or the East Kitsilano Circuit. Running is simpler than most fitness activities because you only need to invest in one thing: a good pair of running shoes.
Ideally, you should have a pair that is lightweight and provides stability, especially when running on uneven ground. Investing in good gear will not only make any fitness activity, such as running, easier to start, but it will also protect you from injuries as you get into the sport. You will also need shoes that will last you a long time and are preferably biodegradable for when you stop using them. The good news is that there are many sustainable pairs on the market that are designed to be as low impact on the world, as well as your feet, as possible. One such pair is the Nike Space Hippie 01 green colorway, which isn’t just light, it is also eco-friendly. It’s made of “Space Waste Yam” (90% recycled polyester made from recycled plastic bottles, t-shirts, and yarn scraps) and Nike’s Grind Rubber sole, which adds support and comfort, especially if you choose to go on long-distance runs.
Barre
Barre may be unfamiliar to some, but it’s an exercise that can help you build endurance, gain strength, and improve flexibility with very little impact. It combines dance moves commonly used in ballet, yoga, Pilates, and aerobics.
To do barre, you’ll need to have a mat and wear socks with a good grip on the soles. If you’re doing these exercises regularly at home, then it’s best to invest in a proper barre. However, you can also use an object that is stable and the right height, such as the back of a chair. Make sure it is roughly 40 to 42 inches high to get the most out of your exercises. Doing barre can help you maintain a healthy weight, strengthen your muscles, and contribute to your overall fitness level.
Pilates
Another low-impact exercise, Pilates aims to target muscles with precision to increase overall strength. It can easily be done in your home or a class setting; all you need is a yoga mat. Doing Pilates comfortably will require a good amount of space, so ensure that the ground is flat and even and that you can extend your body fully in all directions while on the mat.
As you continue to do Pilates, you may want a bit more of a challenge. You can add some equipment to increase the resistance of your exercises, such as dumbbells, ankle weights, and resistance bands. Those who are in more advanced stages of Pilates can use specialized equipment, such as Balance Body wunda chairs, springboards, reformers, and other tools. These are not required, but they can help make the workout a little more intense so you can get the most out of it!
Trying a new sport or exercise can be a little daunting, but it can also be an exciting new introduction to a fitness routine you genuinely enjoy. Having the right
Last modified: August 3, 2021
