It’s no secret that regular physical activity promotes fitness and wellness, and it’s a fact that exercise on the regular strengthens muscles, improves endurance, and helps with weight loss. Consistent exercise, even just 20-30 minutes each day, even helps prevent chronic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes. But did you realize that regular exercise also promotes improved memory, mental clarity, and problem-solving skills?

Though not completely understood how, exercise serves several functions in helping us feel more focused. First, exercise gets your heart pumping to increase oxygen and blood flow throughout the body. Short bursts of exercise also release hormones and chemical messengers (like serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins) that influence mood, promote better sleep, and relieve stress and anxiety.

Simply put, exercise fires up our internal engines for better mind and body performance.

Lace Up Your Gym Shoes

So what type of exercise is best?

Aerobics are the most effective for revving your heart rate, and it could be as basic as taking a walk on a treadmill. Start off with at least 30 minutes a day, walking at your own pace, starting slowly if needed, and then picking up the tempo as your endurance and cardio fitness improve.

Don’t like to walk? Stationary bikes at Freedom Fitness make cycling in Corpus Christi a breeze!

Group fitness classes, like Zumba, are another enjoyable way to work in some exercise. You’ll dance, sweat, and have fun — but you’ll also get your heart pumping, blood circulating, and endorphins flowing. Circuit training, a combination of cardio and strength training, is another great option.

There’s no limit to the ways you can workout at Freedom Fitness, and if you’re new to the gym, it can be overwhelming. We’re here to help! Personal training can help you get started in the right direction.

A personal trainer will assess your current fitness level, determine your expectations and goals, and then help you find a routine that you’ll enjoy. If you prefer to workout on your own, you’ll find plenty of machines, like treadmills, rowers, bikes, and stair climbers, for a no-wait cardio workout. If you prefer the dynamic vibe of group exercise, our class schedule offers both low impact and high intensity programs.

Mind and Body Balance

However you choose to workout, be present. Train your mind to be intentional as you exercise, concentrating on your breathing, your movements, and your body. This practice strengthens your skill to focus as you discipline your mind, together with your body, to achieve clarity of thought and improved focus.

Feeling drained? Thoughts in a whirl? Re-prioritize your activities and add exercise to your daily routine. Be your best!