The world is made up of 2 types of people: those who love sport and exercise, and those who want to love sport and exercise, but life (and excuses!) get in the way. Does this sound familiar? You may have heard of the runner's high. It's the rush of feel-good brain chemicals released during high intensity exercise, that seasoned runners know well. This could be a tempting prospect for many, who are waking up to summer and all its promise. However a word of warning to the novice: as powerful as they are, endorphins cannot override an injury or lack of training, thus newbies aren’t likely to feel elated when they are just starting out.
So if we can't expect a runner's high, should we give up exercise and go home?
The simple answer is no. Not everyone has the time or inclination to go straight for a triathlon or marathon training. But we all know know the truth in the phrase "Rest is Rust". Like all well-oiled machines, the human body needs regular "lotion" to keep it moving smoothly without seizing up and experiencing pain. Where can we get this "lotion"? Quite simply, through movement. The more we move, the more we can move. Movement (and drinking plenty of water) keeps our fascia hydrated (the network of connective tissue beneath the skin keeping in place muscles and internal organs), allowing us a greater range of movement and less pain.
Ideas to keep moving:
So if we can't expect a runner's high, should we give up exercise and go home?
The simple answer is no. Not everyone has the time or inclination to go straight for a triathlon or marathon training. But we all know know the truth in the phrase "Rest is Rust". Like all well-oiled machines, the human body needs regular "lotion" to keep it moving smoothly without seizing up and experiencing pain. Where can we get this "lotion"? Quite simply, through movement. The more we move, the more we can move. Movement (and drinking plenty of water) keeps our fascia hydrated (the network of connective tissue beneath the skin keeping in place muscles and internal organs), allowing us a greater range of movement and less pain.
Ideas to keep moving:
- Take up a new class
- Dust off your bike and go for a ride instead of driving (it's kinder to the planet)
- Wear a pedometer and aim for 10-12k steps a day. This can help you walk more by reminding you to walk, and by setting new goals.
- Go to a gig and dance all night
- Begin your day with a stretching routine (there is a multitude of resources online if you need some help in this area)
- Wear comfortable shoes and aim for a 20 minute walk every day, where you can walk at such a pace (preferably uphill or sufficiently brisk) to get slightly out of breath for 2 mins, followed by 4.5 minutes of rest or slow-paced walking, and repeat.
- Get off the bus early or park further away from your destination, and walk.
- Buddy up- Various studies show that, exercising with a friend is linked to increased fitness levels.
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