Whether working out every day, for special occasions or once a year, most people follow some of the same routines for every sweat session. Hydration, music and pre/post stretching are common elements. After implementing a few more, I felt my time at the gym improved. Now these practices have become rituals I never leave out.
Participants run for a cure at Southeastern Louisiana University Colleges Against Cancer Gleaux Run benefiting the local Relay for Life.
Fresh Breath
This routine originated from my yoga practice. Apart of my morning routine, I don’t talk to anyone, God included, before I brush my teeth. Breathing through stretches was so refreshing I started brushing before my weekly cardio. Being a night runner, it’s one less thing I have to do when I return from the gym.
Fresh Face
Most people never see me without make up, and the gym was no exception. After all my future husband could be running or lifting next to me. There’s nothing more energizing than returning home from work and changing my environment, makeup, hair and clothes. Reapplying foundation before exercising started to feel insane and incredibly vain. Once I opted not to, I never looked back. Now I remove my makeup before any workout; so, if my hubby-to-be is at the gym, he’ll see me fresh faced first.
Fresh Focus
Although I’ve tried various types of cardio from group classes to individual trainings, nothing satisfies me quite like running, but every time I hit a trail or treadmill I set a new objective. Focusing on past records distracted me from the present and left me disappointed. Now going into each run with a new focus based on various factors, I start and end my workouts with positivity. Getting to the gym is a win in itself.
Members of the Inland Empire United Way Team joined for a photo at the 2016 5K Reindeer Run and Rudolph’s Dash benefiting the Ontario-Montclair Promise Scholars
Finding what works for you is important in life no matter what area you apply it, and it’s key when maintaining an active lifestyle. What are your workout rituals?
Share below.
XX,
Jasmine C. Tate