Start your new fitness routine

Many of us start the new year with good intentions to be healthier and happier, committing to a new exercise routine or gym membership. But, after a few months or in some cases a few weeks, this can fall down - a number of studies actually suggest that between 40%-60% of gym memberships are paid for but not actually used - can you relate?

Getting your regular dose of physical activity in a social environment is not only a great way to stay accountable to your goals and stay motivated but is also an opportunity to do some 'sweat-working', one of many predicted fitness trends for 2014. Working out with a partner is also highly beneficial. A female only study conducted by Indiana University showed that women who exercise with friends will do so for longer and burn more calories than those who are going it alone.

Another great way of maintaining motivation and interest in fitness is to mix it up, here’s a sample schedule that you could adapt to your lifestyle:

Monday – morning walk or run before work with a friend
Tuesday – morning or evening group Clinical Exercise class
Wednesday – resistance circuit training in the park or at the gym with a friend or two
Thursday – rest day
Friday – morning walk or run
Saturday – morning group Clinical Exercise class
Sunday – rest day

This plan incorporates a mix of low intensity aerobic activity with strength (resistance) training and then Clinical Exercise to bring it all together.  Benefits of Clinical Exercise include improving core strength and stability as well as rehabilitation of injuries or existing niggles. Two rest days also provide your body with ample down time to repair which is vital for those new to a exercise routine or the more seasoned fitness fanatic. Depending on your situation, you can mix this up leaving a day between any two of the same activities or including more or less activity if your lifestyle permits.

The Back In Motion Health Group is known as a loved and trusted provider of physiotherapy and related services. We offer a range of group classes, from private and semi-private Clinical Exercise classes for women of all ages, Mums In Motion specific for mums-to-be to aid the body in managing pregnancy and preparing for childbirth as well as Mums and Bubs which is great for healing your body following child birth and socialising with other mums and their babies.