Yesterday, I was sent a question by a lovely lady who asked if I knew what exercises were good for her to start back working out. She is a plus size lady who in the past had an ankle injury, and thus wanted something low impact to start with.
I think walking is so effective, but most people dismiss it as not “intense” enough. Whether it be on a treadmill, or outdoors (which I personally love) find a pace that is comfortable for you and warm up at that pace. After a good five, ten minutes pick up the pace a bit and challenge yourself. Walk places you need to be! Making exercise practical is the perfect way to fit it into your day.
Dancing is also so underrated as a means of getting fit. Making a playlist that’s, let’s say, 20 minutes long and committing to jamming out to it burns calories and builds endurance! Plus you’re having fun. For me, dancing is not only a way to move, but a way to get in touch with my body, and learn to love it more.
When I first started working out, I loved racquetball. It was fun, and intense, but I set my own pace, so it wasn’t overwhelming. Swimming and biking are also great cardio workouts.
If you have a membership to a gym, I would try the elliptical at a low resistance; it is very low impact which is good for that ankle of yours. And some simple weight lifting; bicep curls, tricep extensions, etc. with a small weight, perhaps 5lbs, in each hand.
What are your favorite exercises? Let me know, add to the list!
