I don't like working out in a gym!
I know...this doesn't seem like something a health coach would admit.

BUT...I know how important it is to lift heavy stuff!  I just prefer to do that outside of a gym setting.  I do have a variety of workout options at home which include resistance training (X3 Bar) and kettle bells, among other equipment.  However, I also work my muscles by participating in things I enjoy (and also in my daily chores).

Because I am blessed to have my horses at home, lifting hay bales is part of my daily routine.  I also need to replace boards on my fences all too often due to a very busy young horse.  These eight foot boards can get heavy!!

We just finished pumping up our paddle boards for tomorrow's outing.  We use a hand pump, and it is a welcome challenge for me.  Tomorrow I will need to load the paddle boards into the back of my truck, unload them and trek them down the hill to the lake, and then back up to the truck...you get the point!

Why am I sharing this?  Two reasons:
1 - We are often getting movement and strengthening in that we overlook throughout the day, and it counts!
2 - There are often opportunities to add in movement, or lifting heavy things throughout the day, and it is way more fun if it is connected to something you enjoy!

We tend to lose muscle as we age, unless we are proactive.  Building muscle can strengthen bones, improve stability, reduce joint pain, speed up metabolism, enhance cognition, increase energy, and allow us to continue to enjoy our passions.

Please note:  we are all different, and have different needs at different times.  I couldn't have done any of the things I mentioned above eight years ago.  It is essential to listen to your body and build slowly.

And, if you like working out at the gym, GOOD FOR YOU!  Keep doing it!  It is great!

Take Action

Assess your daily and weekly routine.  Are you intentionally strength training?  Are you lifting heavy stuff throughout your day?  Where can you up-level?

Extra Credit

Hit reply and let me know your favorite way to get strong.

ps. And whenever you're ready, these are a few other ways in which I can help you:

1. Subscribe to The Inspired Living with Autoimmunity™ Podcast
2. Take my 5-Day Challenge: Take Your Power Back
3. Apply to work 1-on-1 with me.