Intensity!
I was walking out of a Boot Camp class that I teach when I overheard one of our members speaking to another saying they could never do “that kind of workout”. It made me pause and ask why. One woman was in her mid to late 30’s. The other member was in her early to mid 50’s. They both seem to describe themselves the same. “I eat pretty well and I exercise on a regular basis but I just don’t see the results.” Now, keep in mind that I manage a relatively small club and know most of my members/clients. I can’t speak to these two ladies’ diets but I do see them workout. Yes, they may be at the facility two to five times a week, but their intensity is a 4 or 5 out of 10.
In order to elicit a change in your body you must push your limits. Intensity can be defined as great energy, strength, concentration, violence, forcefulness, or passion, as an activity, thought, or feeling. I often hear, “I walk my dog every day…” but how many people walk with any kind of purpose, passion, or intensity? Have you ever performed an exercise half way through range of motion? Or “sorta” completed a yoga pose? And do you break a sweat? Or get out of breath? These are signs in which you are working hard. There are plenty of ways to increase your intensity–which will help you want to workout or improve your current regimen. Here are just a few:
· Try listening to music that gets you going
· Take a group fitness class or workout with friends or a significant other
· Set a specific goal that you want to work towards. (i.e. Run your first 5K. Fit into a certain size dress. Compete in a sporting event.)
· Workout with Bo Knows Fitness owner, Bo Taylor!
In order to get a “10” body, you need to put in a “10” effort to your workout and nutrition. Take time to analyze your workout(s) or lack thereof, and ask yourself if you are working out intently.
Bo Taylor, M.Ed, is the Fitness & Aquatics Manager at the Daniel Island Club & owner of Bo Knows Fitness.
Bo can be reached at 843.478.8888, or check out www.boknowsfitness.com.