French Fry Runner

Sorry this is posting a bit late! For the Fit Dish Link-up this week, the topic is “Try Something New!”

I like trying new things because you might end up finding something you love. For example, I used to hate running. I played sports way back in high school, so running was a punishment. In college I took up running for exercise because I needed a way to de-stress and I didn’t need any special equipment. I ran nearly every day. I got in great shape and ran my first 5K. I always go back to running first when I need to get in better shape. (Because I know I’ve let my fitness slide more than once! Yikes.) And now I’m training for my first marathon! Who would have thought?

Then a couple years ago, I found yoga. I found out that I loved it, and it’s one of my favorite exercises. It’s a fantastic way to center yourself and strengthen your body.

Finally, a couple months ago, I went to my first Body Pump class. Man, it was tough, but for some reason I loved how I felt after. I finally found a group fitness class I like! And I’m finally seeing muscles! Woo! Even though the class is challenging, I can’t get enough. Now I get so excited to increase my weight on the bar and make it through sets without breaks.

Here are some tips for trying a new class.

1. Think about the type of exercise you’re lacking in your routine. I was missing strength training, so I first took up yoga and then, later, Body Pump.
2. Check out your local gym’s schedule. Are there any classes on there that you’ve heard of but never tried before? Pick one that fits your schedule and check it out.
3. Go to at least three classes. The first class is always weird because you’re unfamiliar with how it’s run, the instructor’s style, etc. Three classes gives you enough opportunity to get used to things and see whether you want to continue.
4. Pick out the positive. If you end up not liking the new class, what were the things you liked the most? Use those positives to pick out the next class. For example, if you find you don’t like Pilates, but you really enjoy the stretching, maybe you can try yoga next.
5. Remember that no one is judging you. If you’re trying a new class, you might feel uncomfortable. This is totally normal. Take a deep breath and focus on yourself, have fun, and maybe you’ll just find the right class for you.

I’m linking up with April from Run the Great Wide Somewhere, Patty from My No-Guilt Life, and Erika from MCM Mama Runs for Tuesdays on the Run! Be sure to visit their blogs and others in the link-up.

This post is also linked up with others for The Fit Dish Link-Up. Thanks to Jill Conyers at JillConyers.com, & Jessica Joy at TheFitSwitch.org for hosting. Be sure to visit their blogs and others in the link-up.

What’s your new favorite class?

Yoga or Pilates?

How are you doing today?