I’m going to try out a series of experiments that all claim to boost self-confidence. I’m not going to lie to you, I’ve been quite lazy and cut out the research part pretty much entirely. Meanly it’s because I wanted these experiments to be realistic, and most of us won’t have hours to spare on Google. So I’m going to go ahead with these experiments as any other punter would: without much background knowledge.
So for my first ‘experiment’ I went for exercise. It seemed like a pretty obvious choice and I always seem to lack the motivation to keep up an exercise routine. Again I’ve missed out the research as we constantly get bombarded with information about how good exercise is for our health blah blah blah.
We all know that exercise will make us fitter and toned in the long run, which will (most of the time) make us feel more content with our bodies. This is one reason why it’s part of this blog. The main reason however it’s is short-term advantages. Some of you may or may not be aware that exercise is connected to feeling good. (Don’t quote me on this because as I’ve said, research is out the window – but I think the same ‘happy hormones’ that are in chocolate and bananas are released when you exercise.) So even just exercising ONCE can lift your spirits. Now I can matter of factly say that this is true as I have tried and tested this. To name just a couple of ‘mood busters’, the best ones I’ve found for grumpiness or gloominess is going for a nice long walk outside or for angriness is doing some sweaty cardio. Even if I am in a good mood, going for a walk or swim or whatever I fancy at the time always lifts my mood. Another short-term benefit of exercise is to beat that tiered streak we all seem to get late afternoon/early evening. Which I am very prone to getting. All day.
So my plan is to start a proper exercise routine and keep at it so that I will start to see the short term and long term advantages. I will keep you up-to-date with my progress and tell you what I’ve been up to. The way I’m going to go about it is NOT by going to a gym for two reasons: money (I probably could afford to pay for a gym membership but I personally feel that it’s a waste of money, I checked prices of my local gym and didn’t even think twice) and also I feel very self conscious about exercising in front of others who can see me. I like to be in the comfort of my own home so that I can make a fool of myself.
One type of exercise that this is not an option is swimming, which I love, and I’m not rich therefore cannot afford to buy my own 25m swimming pool. Unfortunately.
My two main types of exercises will be going for a walk, which is very convenient, and swimming. Walking and swimming are two of the types of exercises that don’t put any strain on joints therefore have thumbs up from me. I’ve also recreantly bought some exercise DVD’s that I will be doing reviews on once I’ve tried and tested them. I’ve mainly bought them so that I will know how to target certain areas and they will be more motivating than just exercise on your tod. My theory is that on your own you can just say ‘oh that will do’ whereas a DVD you have to keep up with the pretty and fit girls on screen.
If anyone is joining me, or on an exercise plan just now please do get in touch.
I’ll try and keep you up-to-date as much as possible.
