Everyone knows that getting a little more exercise would probably do them some good. But what you may not realise is just how many benefits aerobic exercise can have on the body. Not only will it make your body feel great, but it can actually have a very similar effect on your mind. So, here are 7 classes you can join that will help you achieve a healthy body and healthy mind.
Benefits of Aerobic Exercise
Aerobic exercise has a wide array of benefits on both the body and mind. For one, aerobic exercise helps improve heart health by strengthening the heart muscle and reducing the risk of heart disease. It also helps reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which can lead to a reduced risk of heart attack or stroke.
But it’s not just the body that wins when you get your heart going with aerobic exercise. It can help reduce stress levels and anxiety, and can improve moods. It can also help improve cognitive function, memory, and focus.
1) Gentle jogging/walking
The slower pace makes it easier for people with mobility issues (or anyone who wants a less intense workout). It’s also good for joints since there is very minimal impact on them. And if you need motivation, make yourself a clear target of the number of walks you want to do each week, or set yourself a goal on your phone by tracking the distance you have walked. You’ll start to feel even more determined to get out and get walking once you see the miles stacking up. The NHS ‘Couch to 5k’ plan is a great place to start.
2) Swimming
Swimming is a great exercise for both the body and mind. In the water, your body becomes lighter and you are able to move more freely. This makes swimming a great workout for everyone and it is often a mode of exercise used to help with muscle conditioning and joint strengthening. Swimming is also great for the mind because it is a meditative exercise that allows you to zone out of daily stresses and feel completely in the moment. Check out this article from Healthline for more insights on the benefits of swimming.
3) Dance
Classes like Zumba and hip-hop are fun ways to get cardio without feeling overwhelmed. The instructors will also teach you proper movement that helps with balance to ensure you’re having fun and using proper form to protect yourself.
4) Aerobics
Types of aerobics like these give more intensity than gentle jogging/walking or swimming but are not as intense as running. Most aerobic classes also include a warm up and cool down which makes them easier on your joints and are lots of fun too, often happening in a group with others all there to spur you on!
5) Yoga
Classes like slow flow and gentle yoga can be great for people who want to improve flexibility but don’t feel as comfortable in more high intensity fitness classes. The instructor helps guide you through the poses safely without making it feel like a workout, so you can take it at your own pace. With regular practice, yoga is a brilliant way to work towards a healthy body and a healthy mind.
6) Zumba
You might think this is an intense cardio class (because of its reputation), but it really doesn’t have to be. If the instructor goes too fast, just stop and take deep breaths if necessary. Plus, Zumba has plenty of benefits: increases endurance, strengthens muscles, improves coordination, and boosts memory. So if you love to dance, this is the class for you!
7) Resistance training
Even without running or high intensity cardio, resistance training can be an important part of keeping your bones strong and healthy in the long term. You can make friends through these classes (or online), so it never feels like working out alone again!
While it’s easy for your mind to immediately go towards big heavy weights, the reality is you can definitely take a slower and more casual approach with things like bands and calisthenics, all of which are available online for not too high a price tag.
Find your class
If you’re getting excited about joining an exercise class then there is no better time to get involved. You can start by looking for classes in your local area but you certainly don’t have to limit yourself to that.
Nowadays, there are many online options that ensure there is a class for everyone regardless of interest or ability. A great place to look is right here at The Joy Club – the online activity club for people who enjoy keeping busy!
When you join The Joy Club, you’ll find many of the activities listed in this article and more, all of which are geared towards giving you a healthy body and a healthy mind. We also share daily reads for those looking for inspiration of the more relaxed kind. Premium membership costs just £5 per month and all new members get a one-month, no obligation free trial.
Interested? Click here to find out more and sign up for free today!