It’s time for Fitness Friday! Today I want to talk about enjoying the last couple of months of opportunity to be active outside (if you live outside of LA). As you’ll begin to learn as I continue to post on Fitness Fridays, I love mixing up my workouts. I got started in fitness in high school, lifting for football and other sports, so I’m definitely still a bit of a gym rat. However, after a month or two of lifting weights regularly, it just starts to get boring and once you’re bored, you’re beat. Enjoying the last bit of the availability to get outside and break a sweat is key to continuing your motivation through winter. I’m down with winter body just as much as the next guy, but you still want to do your best to take care of yourself.

When doing cardio building outside, I like to find an open stretch of street, sidewalk or field and bust out some sprints. I know that sounds outrageous, but they don’t have to be all out, 100%. You can build up to that. Run a 10 second sprint and rest for 30-45 seconds afterward and start again. Run 10-15 sprints and your heart rate will be racing. It’s a great way to squeeze as much cardio into 20 minutes as it would’ve taken you an hour to complete on a treadmill or elliptical machine.

When I get outside and run my sprints, I like to bring my yellow lab Emma along with me for motivation. She’s only 4 so her energy level is like that of a child on speed. She always keeps up with me and oftentimes leads me in my runs. My girlfriend and I always joked about inventing a product we dubbed “The Dog Belt” that was designed for when you’re taking your dog on a walk and you need full range of motion and use of your hands. Low and behold, my birthday rolls around this year and she found one for me! It’s made by Mighty Paw and it works awesomely. The bungee string attaches to a waistband so that there’s a little bit of give when Emma is kicking my ass in sprints but it still keeps her close enough that I don’t have to be worried about her running into something she shouldn’t.

Remember when it comes to your fitness that it’s only going to lead to you feeling better, even if it’s painful in the short term. Feel good, look good, dress well, live well. It’s a simple solution to living a more fulfilled life.

Thanks for reading!! I’d love to hear some recommendations of what you’d like to see in Fitness Fridays. Need workout suggestions? Need workout clothing suggestions? I’ve got something for everybody.

Stay smiling, my friends!

PYS