Some Thoughts about Working Out
 | My HIIT Workout: |
Working out is not just about sculpting the body and looking good. Sexy muscle tone and a slimmer physique only provide part of the story. The real benefits of a consistent workout routine go far beyond ripped muscles, sleek flat bellies, juicy pecs or tight thighs. In fact, those sculpted bodies featured in ads and the media take a lot of work. By a lot of work, I mean at least 8 hours of intense exercise every week and 24/7 dieting that strips all the pleasure from eating. Say goodbye to craft cocktails (or any alcohol for that matter), heavy cream sauces, anything deep-fried, desserts other than fruit and most bread and pasta.
Only models, actors and others whose careers depend on perfectly sculpted physiques need go through such extremes of working out and dieting. Most people just need to get moving and eat less to start on a journey to better health and an improved sense of well-being. Working out is really about getting to experience the body on a visceral and physical level. Once the body begins to move, the heart must pump faster to provide working muscles with more oxygen and nutrients. Soon, sweat starts to drip and muscles burn and shake. The burn marks the point of transformation when the muscles actually tear apart in order to rebuild and become stronger.
Going deeper into the burn is a difficult yet critical part of working out. The mind usually resists the intense sensations that result from going all out at maximum effort. There is a natural tendency to back off from the physical effort and stop the burn. Facing the burn involves finding the inner strength to keep going past the burning, shaking and breathlessness. Yoga instructors often refer to the burn as heat that purifies the body and eliminates toxins. In a way, the burn does purify the body through sweat and increased circulation that brings fresh oxygen and nutrients to the organs.
The burn creates endorphins and produces a post workout glow that increases a sense of well-being and confidence. Increased well-being and confidence, along with more energy, better sleep and reduced stress are the real reasons to workout. Focusing on these benefits helps motivate me to workout when the temptation to skip the workout arises.
Only models, actors and others whose careers depend on perfectly sculpted physiques need go through such extremes of working out and dieting. Most people just need to get moving and eat less to start on a journey to better health and an improved sense of well-being. Working out is really about getting to experience the body on a visceral and physical level. Once the body begins to move, the heart must pump faster to provide working muscles with more oxygen and nutrients. Soon, sweat starts to drip and muscles burn and shake. The burn marks the point of transformation when the muscles actually tear apart in order to rebuild and become stronger.
Going deeper into the burn is a difficult yet critical part of working out. The mind usually resists the intense sensations that result from going all out at maximum effort. There is a natural tendency to back off from the physical effort and stop the burn. Facing the burn involves finding the inner strength to keep going past the burning, shaking and breathlessness. Yoga instructors often refer to the burn as heat that purifies the body and eliminates toxins. In a way, the burn does purify the body through sweat and increased circulation that brings fresh oxygen and nutrients to the organs.
The burn creates endorphins and produces a post workout glow that increases a sense of well-being and confidence. Increased well-being and confidence, along with more energy, better sleep and reduced stress are the real reasons to workout. Focusing on these benefits helps motivate me to workout when the temptation to skip the workout arises.
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