1. Happier!
Cold water therapy releases endorphins, the happy hormone! It is also released during exercise, which is even better when swimming!

2. Boost immune system
Yet to be proven in myself, I think – Although scientifically proven to produce a hormone called norepinephrine. This hormone has been shown to help regulate the immune system and can increase white blood cells.

3. Social Element
There are a few swimming groups around – why not join one and make a couple of new friends! Or invite friends or family to come with you – share the benefits.

4. Stress reduction
According to research, cold water immersion can trigger the flight or fight response, the same response caused by stress and anxiety. With repeated exposure to this and your control, the stress response reduces, and your body adjusts – the same to everyday stresses and anxiety.

I think it’s always good to give something new a go – and if you can do it from your own home – what’s stopping you!

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Cycling
Obviously, you’ll need a bike for this one! Cycling is a brilliant form of cardio. It works your leg muscles and your core muscles really well. You can choose scenic routes, get in that fresh air, and explore new places.

Skipping (Jump rope)
It may seem a little boring at first, but actually, there are so many techniques of skipping that make it fun! Try different styles. Speed skipping. You could even try double dutch with friends!

Swimming
Not only is swimming beneficial for health, I personally find it very therapeutic being in the water. Swimming works the whole body! Being in Cornwall, surrounded by sea, you could try cold water swimming, which is proven to improve your circulation and help relieve anxiety and depression.

Aerobics / Zumba
Fun exercise! There are often classes within communities and gyms, but there are often classes online, e.g., on YouTube. Exercise to music and have fun with the dancing element!

With so many different exercises to try, cardio may not seem such a bore after all!

The post Exercise Alternatives! appeared first on Cornwall Cardiologist.

Goal setting

Goal setting might not be for everyone – but I now have given myself a target fitness goal. Alongside a lot of other people (so it seems!) I lost my usual fitness level during the lockdowns. I think I used it as an excuse when really, I probably could have been using my time in a much better way than slobbing out on the sofa! I’m someone who strives to complete tasks, and I find that setting myself a goal for how long I can run for, cycle for, row for, etc., really helps me. I turn it into a bit of competition for myself!

Have company

I always find going to exercise with a friend more enjoyable than going by myself. Having someone else to encourage you to work harder and support you is incredibly motivating. You could set a workout plan together. It is comforting to have someone with you who makes you feel comfortable and confident while working out. Alternatively, if you find yourself in the gym alone, a staff member would happily support you if wanted.

Reward yourself

Rewarding yourself is very important. There is nothing wrong with a treat! If you feel you have accomplished your goal/aim or worked very hard, why not treat yourself! After all, you deserve it.

The after feeling

Working out is proven to produce natural endorphins, a positive feeling in your body. I do feel happier after working out! I feel a sense of achievement. I tell myself I am a step closer to my goal. If I go first thing in the morning, I feel more ready for the day. That is enough to get me motivated!

I hope these tips give a guide on how to get motivated. Motivation does not have to be there every day; it is OK to have a lazy day too! But motivation does not have to be about just working out. It can be for work, or even just going out in general. Try using these tips in everyday life!

The post Motivation for Exercise appeared first on Cornwall Cardiologist.