Spring is in the air and hopefully the Minnesota winter is behind us. Have you put away your winter coat and slipped on your flip flops? Have you started or thought about spring cleaning? What about cleaning/ straightening up your fitness and health?
Spring health starts with scheduling a physical. Did you know that only 20 percent of Americans get an annual check-up? You may look and feel just fine, yet it’s important to keep tabs on things like blood pressure, cholesterol and any vitamin deficiencies that you may have. What about your hydration? Especially when the temperature starts to rise, water is important to avoid muscle cramping and fatigue. The more you sweat, the more fluids you will need to replace. Take a break from the scale. Muscle weighs more than fat, so you may not be shedding pounds at the rate you want; instead use a tape measure and measure yourself every two weeks to see the inches you are trimming. With spring comes the opportunity to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at the farmers market.
Spring fitness is a time for you to reevaluate your fitness program. Set a new schedule for outdoor exercise into your routine and to be realistic. Get sporty with your fitness with tennis, golf, disc golf, outdoor volleyball. You don’t have to be athletic to play. Partner up with someone who will help you stick to your fitness plan. It is important that you have similar goals and schedules so that you can get together two to four days a week. Adding races to your routine will give your workout purpose. Look for local races — a 5K is perfect for beginners. It’s a great way to be a part of fitness in your community or surrounding area.
Don’t forget to take care of your hard-working body with a massage. It is a nice way to pamper yourself, eliminating toxins. Yoga and Pilates are great ways to add stretch and flexibility to your routine. Spring is an opportunity to start new, just like the season.
Reminders
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• Youth soccer is April 30-June 2 for kindergarten through grade five. A preseason clinic is set for April 30 at Wescott Athletic Complex with Austin High School coach Jen Levisen and soccer players. Kindergartners and first-graders will meet from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and grades two to five from 11 a.m. to noon. The cost is $37 for members and $47 for non-members. For more details, contact Ruth Chamberlain, youth director.
• The 11th annual YMCA 5K Run/Walk is May 14. The cost is $20 before May 7 and $25 after that. The race starts at 9 a.m. on Main Street by the Y. If you have any questions, contact me.
