The best way to stick to a new exercise routine is to do something you love doing! If you struggle to hit the gym, then maybe you’re just not a gym person. Or if running isn’t your thing, that’s okay too! The key to staying motivated is finding the right activity for you. So in today’s post, we’re going to look at a few lesser-talked-about activities you may not have thought of yet. You never know… you might find the one for you right here!
Horse Riding with Lizzie
It may come as a surprise to hear that we have a bonafide equestrian queen in our ranks here at Terra Health. Horse riding is more than just a leisurely activity; it's a full-body workout that strengthens your core, improves your balance, and is the perfect way to zone out and take some much-needed “me” time. To give you a better idea of whether it’s right for you, we sat down with our team member, Lizzie, who has been an avid equestrian for years.
"I started horse riding when I was a kid, and it quickly became a passion. The bond you create with your horse is unlike any other, and the physical benefits are incredible. It’s not just about sitting on a horse; it’s about controlling a powerful animal with your body movements, which takes strength, balance, and coordination.
What I love most is the connection with the horse and the tranquility of being outdoors. It’s therapeutic and offers a sense of freedom. Plus, it’s a great workout! Your core, legs, and even upper body get a great workout without you even realizing it because you're having so much fun."
Getting Started as a Beginner
Although Lizzie has been riding for many years, she knows that this will be very new to a lot of our readers, so she talked us through how you can get the ball rolling. "To start, find a local stable that offers lessons. You don’t need to own a horse to begin; many places offer riding lessons with their horses. Wear comfortable clothes and a helmet for safety. It’s also helpful to have a good pair of riding boots. Start with beginner lessons and progress at your own pace. Enjoy the ride and the companionship of your horse!"
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) with Syd
Next up is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), a martial art that’s been gaining popularity not just as a sport, but as a way of life. Our team member Syd is a serious pro at the martial arts, holding a BJJ brown belt with 3 stripes, and his passion for the sport shines truly through when he tells us more about his story.
"My journey into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu began the summer after high school when I was seeking an activity before starting college. Intrigued by this new style of fighting introduced at UFC events, which was dominating all other fighting styles, I decided to check out a local school. Initially overwhelmed by the complexity of the sport, I was put at ease by the friendly owner, (and now close mentor) Paul Tom, and have been hooked ever since."
Syd tells us that "the early years were challenging, filled with humbling lessons in vulnerability and resilience. Over time, BJJ transformed from a physical activity into a journey of self-discovery. Now, as a brown belt with three stripes, I appreciate the balance of knowledge and freedom to experiment. BJJ is less about ranks and more about personal growth and continuous learning, lessons which I try to apply to my everyday life."
Mind & Body Fitness
As you’ve seen, BJJ was about more than the physical aspect for Syd, and this is something that applies to everyone who decides to enter the sport.
"BJJ revolutionized my fitness. Each training session is a full-body workout that hones cardiovascular endurance, enhances strength, and increases flexibility. Mentally, BJJ sharpens strategic thinking and resilience, turning fitness from a routine chore into an exhilarating challenge. It taught me that true fitness is a blend of physical prowess, mental toughness, and proper nutrition."
Syd's Advice for Getting Started with BJJ
"Begin by finding a reputable BJJ school with supportive instructors. Invest in a good quality gi and attend beginner classes to learn the fundamentals. Be patient, as progress takes time, and focus on consistent practice. Proper nutrition is crucial for recovery, so fuel your body with balanced meals to enhance performance and aid muscle repair. Enjoy the journey and the community you'll join along the way!" You’ll also find lots of helpful tips on Syd’s Blog: Protect Ya Neck BJJ.
Skateboarding with Aspen
Last but certainly not least, let’s dive into the world of skateboarding with Aspen.. What started as a simple way to get from A to B for Aspen quickly became a full-fledged passion, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. Her enthusiasm for the sport is contagious and it just goes to show how quickly a hobby can quickly transform into a lifestyle.
Aspen shared, "I first leaned into skateboarding as a method of transportation but got really into it during Covid-19 as a way to get more fresh air. The balancing nature of it forces you to build confidence very quickly. Even without access to a skatepark, street skating can be very challenging. Back when I was skating every day, my body was at its peak of coordination, balance, and ab definition. It helped me build so much core strength and cardio stamina without even realizing it. The thrill of mastering new tricks and the sense of freedom while cruising around are what keep me hooked."
Since first hopping on a board, her experience highlights how skateboarding can help you to work on your physical fitness whilst having lots of fun at the same time!
Aspen’s Tips for Getting Started
"All you really need to begin is a board and a helmet. I started with a longboard, which I would 100% recommend for beginners. You won’t have to worry as much about rocks or cracks in the road, and it’s less energy to expend compared to a normal deck. Plus, the added weight can help you go faster down hills! As you build your skills and gain confidence, you can always upgrade to a regular skateboard if that’s your goal."
As you can see from Aspen’s experience, skateboarding might be more accessible and enjoyable than you initially thought. It’s not just about getting from one place to another - it’s about finding a new way to have fun and stay active. Whether you're looking to improve your balance, get some fresh air, or just enjoy the thrill of learning new tricks, skateboarding could be just the thing you need!
Finding the Joy in Fitness
Fitness doesn't have to be boring and monotonous. By opting for something you actually enjoy, you’ll be much more motivated to stick with it, and it will soon become a normal part of your daily routine! The key is to have fun and enjoy the process. So, why not give one of these activities a try and mix things up a bit? Whether it’s horse riding, BJJ, or skateboarding, there’s something out there that’s perfect for you… you just have to get out there and find it!
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