Four Types of Fitness to Help Build Physical and Mental Strength
Fitness is one of the key components for maintaining well-rounded physical and mental health. Both of these play a fundamental role in the development of intrapersonal strength. There are a variety of exercises that cultivate a balance between internal and external needs. Each of them is designed with unique characteristics that help individuals build a positive relationship with exercise. Below, is a list of four common types of fitness that can be used to support your physical and mental growth.
Cycling is a prime example of an exercise that works to challenge both physical and mental strength. In recent years, indoor cycling has gained an immense amount of popularity due to the increase in community spin classes. Spin classes are a form of cardiovascular exercise that utilizes intensity and endurance. Cardio is typically labeled as tedious and tiresome, but cycling is an exception to these lackluster qualities. During a class, people are led by an instructor through a series of stationary bike circuits. The circuits include periods of fast and slow pace intervals. At any time, the participants can adjust the bike’s resistance in order to accommodate their preferred level of difficulty. Upbeat music and rhythmic motions are used to distract participants from the fatigue they may be experiencing. The instructors strive to create an enthusiastic, engaging environment that pushes people to the best of their abilities. Spin classes allow people to get lost in the beat of the music and drain themselves of mental stressors.
Luckily, the Aztec Recreation Center has a wide range of cycling classes. These classes have some of the highest attendance rates, which is why they are offered at various days and times throughout the week. If you are not able to attend a group class, they also have bikes in the multi-purpose room that are open for everyone’s convenience!
Running is a classic, yet controversial approach to exercise. Many people appreciate its simplicity, but others dread its monotonous movements. Despite these differences, running remains to be a reliable source of physical and mental self-care. It is a cardiovascular exercise that primarily strengthens lower body muscles. One major benefit of running is the variety of customizable speeds and distances. If a long-distance jog does not appeal to someone, they still have the option of experimenting with things like a short distance sprint. One thing to note is that while all exercise has the potential for injury, running is known to be especially taxing on the joints. Prior to a run, it is crucial to incorporate a proper warm-up regime that will help prevent injury. Beyond the physical component, running is also an excellent source of mental exercise. The motions are instinctive, which makes it easier for people to clear their mind and let their feet lead the way.
The Aztec Recreation Center does not have a class designated for running, but they do arrange an Outdoor Bootcamp that incorporates running circuits into the workout. In addition to this class, the gym’s track is also open on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7-9pm!
CrossFit is another unique form of exercise that provides its participants with a challenging, yet therapeutic environment. It is relatively new amongst the fitness community but has gained an immense following from people all around the world. They form tight-knit communities that welcome diverse groups of people to come and join their workouts. No matter your experience level, gender, or age, the exercises are created to accommodate anyone who wishes to join. CrossFit uses a combination of strength training, gymnastics, Olympic lifting, and cardiovascular circuits. Most of the workouts are performed in groups, which generates a constant sense of perseverance and comradery. CrossFit embraces physical and mental capabilities; it promotes skills that participants can use beyond the gym.
The Aztec Recreation Center has one CrossFit group fitness class, called AztecFit, that is offered a couple times each week in the Performance Center. If you prefer to try a community-based CrossFit gym, there is a vast number of them throughout San Diego County! You can contact a local gym near you and ask about the options they have for people interested in trying it out for the first time!
Yoga is one of the most prominent sources of mental and physical self-care. Many people recognize its association with mental well-being, which may be the root cause behind the stigmas surrounding its physical relevance. Yoga is often disregarded as an easy form of exercise, but in reality, it provides some of the highest levels of physical difficulty. The poses require equal amounts of strength, balance, and flexibility. Most of the movements are strictly body-weight, but that does not take away from the challenge. It requires dedicated practice in order to achieve proper technique, however, that does not mean you need to be an expert to participate. Yoga teaches its people about the importance of mindfulness both inside and outside the studio. A serene atmosphere with calming music and comforting materials allow the participants to stimulate their mind and body. Yoga is a beam of positive energy in the fitness community that proclaims the message of overall wellness.
There are many yoga classes at the Aztec Recreation Center, which include a variety of styles such as, power, vinyasa, strength, and deep stretch yoga! All of these classes provide their own free mats and blocks for participants to use during class.
Exercise is an essential component of maintaining a happy, healthy lifestyle. If you explore all of your options, it will be easier to identify the one that best suits your needs. Once you find something you enjoy, the exercise can feel gratifying, opposed to burdensome! Fitness is not meant to be miserable. It should be used as a form of expression that provides you with physical and mental relief. Always remember that your well-being deserves to be treated with love and respect; exercise is just one of the many ways to provide it with that support.
