“Play” some sports or activities
It could be anything you enjoy – dance, rock-climbing, biking, running, rowing, team sports, social team sports, hiking and adventuring, kayaking, squash… the list goes on.
The beauty of “playing a sport” is that it allows you to use the skills you master in the gym. We can now “express” our physical skills in an environment that more closely resembles “Real Life”.
Remember, playing a sport is just that. PLAYING. Have fun, enjoy it!
We want to choose things that bring an element of joy, that uplift your life and bring energy to you – keep this in mind when you re-integrate into sport.
Why this is integral
Expression through “sport” and/or adventure gives MEANING to the work you do in the gym.
Most people don’t particularly want to be bodybuilders. Most people just want to be stronger, healthier, and FEEL BETTER to preform better in OTHER things!
If you resistance train in the gym 2-3x week for the things that you love to do “out there” – you are more likely to stick with it, to feel motivated to do it, and to enjoy it. This is important as the success of any programme relies more so on consistency and adherence than the actual programme itself!!!
It means your “workouts” have a bigger purpose. They go into the bank in order to be expressed (withdrawn) a little later down the track.
There is also an inherent element of risk when we take our skills “out there”. There are certain variables that we can’t control (weather, terrain, other people) and this makes for a spicy experience! So our training in the gym, prepares us, and builds confidence in order to overcome bigger challenges. This can be a really awesome way to build a sense of accomplishment, purpose, and pride in your abilities.
How do you start?
Make a list of all of the sports, adventures, physical activities that you can do.
Is there something in this list that you might like to return to? Ask around, hop back in!
Want to try something new – do some research and investigating… start something fresh and new, be the learner again. This is another way to develop other life skills – along with supporting your motivation in the gym.
As the world becomes more and more technologically focused, doing REAL things, with REAL people will be our saving grace. Most clubs, organisations, and groups are more than happy to welcome in new members and share the love of their sport/activity with you.
Get out there and learn something new 😉
