Well, Now: Creating an Exercise Routine That’s Right for You
Nov 24, 2024
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In this discussion, Gabby Reece, a retired professional volleyball player and co-founder of XPT Fitness and Laird Superfoods, shares her journey from athlete to advocate for sustainable fitness. She emphasizes the importance of creating a personalized exercise routine, highlighting the integration of nutrition and mental wellness. Gabby explores strength training's benefits for women, encouraging resilience over societal ideals. The conversation also touches on building community support and the motivation to maintain consistent fitness practices.
Finding a sustainable and enjoyable exercise routine is essential for long-term health and emotional well-being.
Understanding that even elite athletes face motivational challenges can help individuals feel supported in their fitness journeys.
Deep dives
The Benefits of Physical Activity
Establishing a consistent workout routine is crucial for both physical and emotional well-being. Engaging in regular physical activity provides numerous health advantages, including improved mood and increased energy levels. The importance of finding a routine that is enjoyable and manageable is emphasized, as many individuals struggle with consistency in their fitness regimens. It is suggested that even 30 minutes of activity most days can significantly reduce health risks, highlighting that movement is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Grit and the Reality of Elite Athletes
Elite athletes, while exhibiting remarkable physical capabilities, share the common trait of grit—a mindset that embraces perseverance despite challenges. The discussion reveals that even professional sports figures like NBA players experience days when they dislike training, showcasing their humanity and the need for motivation just like anyone else. This perspective serves as an encouraging reminder that passion does not always coincide with commitment, and that developing a strong work ethic over time is key to success. Understanding this can help everyday individuals realize that they are not alone in their struggles with maintaining motivation.
Finding Your Unique Fitness Routine
Creating a personalized fitness routine involves experimentation and recognizing one's own health needs and preferences. It is important for individuals to assess how various activities and dietary choices affect their well-being in order to determine what works for them. Rather than adhering to rigid guidelines, the emphasis is placed on starting slowly and making small, sustainable changes over time. The benefits of weightlifting, particularly for women, are highlighted as essential for overall health, enhancing independence and physical functionality.
Staying Consistent and Motivated
Developing consistency in fitness practices often hinges on support and accountability from others. Engaging with friends or workout partners and integrating physical activity into daily life are effective strategies for maintaining motivation. Planning and structuring workouts, along with keeping a record of progress, can significantly increase adherence to fitness goals. Understanding that it is normal to have days when motivation wanes, and shifting focus to the overall journey rather than perfection, helps individuals cultivate a healthier and more fulfilling relationship with their well-being.
Regular movement is crucial for lifelong health, but finding a routine that fits well in your life can be challenging and overwhelming.
On this week’s episode of Well, Now we speak to retired volleyball player Gabby Reece on transitioning out of professional sports and talk about ways to realistically bring performance-level fitness to every kind of exercise routine.
Podcast production by Vic Whitley-Berry with editorial oversight by Alicia Montgomery.
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