Are you struggling to get excited about exercising? Or perhaps you just can’t find that perfect physical activity that brings you joy? Fear not, because we’ve got the key to making exercise enjoyable and fun – just think of it as playtime! In this article, we’ll explore various playtime activities and give you some helpful tips to make the most out of your exercise routine. So, let’s dive in and discover the adult version of playtime!
Choosing Your Playtime Activity
As adults, we often forget the pure joy and happiness that comes with letting go and simply playing. When considering your playtime activity, think about the activities that make you feel good. Here are some categories to consider:
- Flexibility and movement: Yoga, Pilates, chi gong
- Aerobic playtime: Running, bicycling, swimming, Zumba, dance aerobics, etc.
- Strength training: Weightlifting, pullups, pushups, situps, etc.
- Sports: A wide selection, from tennis to basketball
When choosing an activity, ensure it’s something you can do consistently regarding location and weather. Consider if you’ll be playing alone or with a friend – sometimes, having a workout buddy can make all the difference in how enjoyable the experience will be.
If you’ll be exercising solo, consider using music to enhance your mood. Studies show that music can significantly boost your overall enjoyment of a physical activity, particularly in aerobic dance classes [1]. So, whether you’re lifting weights or jogging the local park, toss on your earbuds and let your favorite tunes carry you through the workout.
Flexibility and Movement Activities
Activities like yoga, Pilates, and chi gong focus on both flexibility and strength, providing a wide array of benefits and leaving you feeling rejuvenated. Many local fitness clubs, community centers, or even senior centers offer classes in these disciplines.
Yoga, in particular, encourages proper relaxation, strengthening, breathing, and diet, all while promoting a positive mental focus. Through yoga, release muscle tension and experience inner peace, making both stretching and strengthening enjoyable experiences.
Aerobic Playtime
Are you a runner or a swimmer? Perhaps you prefer bicycling or Zumba? Regardless of your preferred aerobic exercise, maintaining a moderate intensity level of activity has been found to boost mood and even reduce fatigue [2][3]. However, pushing yourself into high-intensity anaerobic activity can result in pain or negative feelings that counteract the mood-boosting benefits [4].
A consistent moderate intensity level is key for a great aerobic exercise experience, with studies indicating that this intensity provides lasting good-mood effects [5].
Strength Training Playtime
Strength training can be a great way to bond and compete with friends. Opt for classic exercises like pullups, pushups, and situps to maintain muscle strength. Equipment like a doorframe pull-up bar or a home gym setup can help you maintain your routine even when you can’t make it to the gym.
Even older individuals can take part in strength training – just remember to use less weight and more repetitions for toning muscles. Consult with a trainer or gym staff to learn proper techniques for a wide variety of strength training exercises that target all major muscle groups.
Breathe New Life Into Your Exercise Routine
We hope these ideas inspire you to inject some fun into your exercise routine by introducing elements of playtime. By choosing activities that not only make you feel good but are also consistently accessible, you can make your exercise routine both enjoyable and sustainable. So let go, remember the joy of playtime, and uncover the perfect workout for you.
