Let’s face it - one of the best things about winter is indulging in hearty comfort food, and snuggling up inside. But months of fondu and hot cocoa without access to the great outdoors can lead to a little softness–often conveniently shielded from judging eyes by equally soft and snuggly sweaters. As the seasons change and sweaters yield to swimsuits, many of us get the itch to get back out there and exercise. Running! Swimming! Biking! Suddenly so many activities are available to us again, but after months of lethargy, it can be difficult to know where to start. But building a workout routine, whether for the first time or just after a long time, doesn’t have to be so daunting.
To get the skinny on getting fit, we asked fitness guru and creator of VIPE, Marlies Korijn to share her motivational secrets. Check out Marlies’ simple suggestions for kick starting your fitness routine this season. Then stop reading, and get out there!
(Commissioned article for Darling Magazine)
What are some simple ways to ease into a new workout routine?
Set realistic goals! The key is consistency, so try to define a routine and stick to it.
Work out at least two or three times a week with recovery days in between.
Dress for the gym right away to give yourself less opportunity to back out of a workout.
Drink a protein shake 2 hours before my workout to get the best results – Body Brilliance Vegan Protein Formula in chocolate flavor with almond milk is my favorite. Protein takes time to kick in which is why you have to drink in advance.
Then set a fun playlist and get pumped up! Have fun with it!
“Remember that exercise can include games and team sports as well, which can be more fun than going to the gym.”
Where can we find exercise inspiration?
There are so many amazing options on how to exercise these days! Find something that appeals to you personally so that you’ll actually want to workout. I personally love spin, TRX and boxing because I get inspiration through action and sports! Remember that exercise can include games and team sports as well, which can be more fun than going to the gym. Plus working out with friends helps to keep you motivated.
How else can we stay motivated?
Choose a friend to work out with who is at a similar level. Accountability is key. At Vipe, we take breaks and go to exercise classes together. I am certified in TRX, Power Plate and spin so give the team pointers on form. We will work out together and then grab a high-protein lunch afterwards! It’s fun to go as a group so we encourage each other. Fitness and health should be a priority in our daily lives.
It’s also important to switch it up. Trick your muscle memory by gradually increasing to heavier weights with fewer reps or alternating between upper and lower.
What are the biggest pitfalls to keeping up a workout regimen?
Overeating when you feel like you’ve “earned it” can be a problem for a lot of people. My personal biggest pitfall is licorice candy when I’m feeling indulgent. Especially since I just had a baby and am constantly breastfeeding! As a healthy alternative I’ll go for Wasa multigrain cracker with a slice of low-sodium turkey or cut celery sticks and radishes dipped in hummus. I recommend snacking on healthy snacks frequently and don’t allow cravings to get in the way of your workout routine. I will also splash some Organic Stevia Sweet Drops in my water bottle to switch it up (peach mango is my favorite).
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PHOTO CRED: The Vipe
Still beating yourself up over unkept promises to yourself? Learn how to turn bad habits into good ones by getting inside, and outside of your own head. (Written for Darling Magazine's Fall Issue)