With the holiday season drawing closer and the weather warming up, the temptation to kick-start a new fitness routine is very real.
But after months locked indoors you may feel as though you’re in a bit of an exercise rut – so how do you get motivated to get active once more?
Working out with your partner can be a great way to boost inspiration when it comes to getting fit, so here are our top tips for an exercise routine that’s built to last.
Pick something you both love
If you love Pilates but your partner is all about lifting heavy weights, working out together might seem like an impossible task.
While you can both stick to the activities you love, make time to start something new together or work towards a common goal – like starting a running routine with the aim of being able to complete a 10-kilometre fun run together.
Alternatively, plan a workout that incorporates a little bit of what you both love. Head to the park for a fitness circuit that not only works for your individual fitness levels, but includes a bit of cardio (hello, skipping) and some exercises that require very little equipment but still work up a sweat, like push-ups, crunches, and squats.
Feel good with fitness prep
Getting sweaty and sore doesn’t sound like the most comfortable of activities, but there are things you can do to make it as enjoyable as possible.
Invest in activewear that not only feels good (like lightweight, breathable fabric that is absorbent and fast drying) but looks good, too. Dressing in workout gear that you’re excited about – whether it’s that perfect pair of leggings that feel like a second skin, or a bright coloured ensemble that brings an extra confidence boost – can make all the difference on days when motivation might be lacking.
Sunscreen, too, is a must-have if you’re choosing to work out together in the park or on the beach. Hamilton Sport SPF50+ is ideal for wearing during sport or heavy-duty outdoor activities. It’s sweat resistant, with a dry-touch formula, while still offering SPF50+ very high protection sunscreen and broad-spectrum UVA and UVB coverage.
Be supportive…and have fun.
Trying a new outdoor fitness circuit, or sprinting in front of strangers along the sand, can be a little daunting, even if you’re doing it with the one you love – so remind your partner that you’re in it together and stay supportive.
Motivate each other to get out of bed on days when hitting the snooze button feels easier and remind each other that you’re not working out just for looks. Getting your body moving has long-term benefits (like a healthier heart and mind) that far outweigh what can be seen from the outside.
And remember to have fun: trying something new is tricky but finding something you both love and enjoy means you’ll have a healthy habit for life.
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Always read the label. Follow the directions for use. Reapply frequently. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun.