Keeping Your Body In Shape
Contributed by Shyla Woodkurm — Speak Up for Kids Student Intern, a homeschooled student with a passion for writing and music, self-taught pianist, and historical fiction author who enjoys editing, storytelling, and faith-based community engagement.
Overview
Fitness is important! Just like eating healthy, being active is just as necessary. And the best part about exercise is that it can be incorporated in your everyday routines, simply walking, squatting, or just a few jumping-jacks a day gets your blood pumping and helps reduce stress and anxiety, benefiting your health and mind.
Set Goals
When you set your mind to a specific goal, it helps your mindset and develops determination, which is really important for your fitness journey. Self-discipline is something we all should learn once in our lives, especially when we realize we harbor bad habits and need to maintain self-control. Whether your goal is losing weight, strength training, or improving flexibility, it’s important to know what you are aiming for as you go through fitness training. That way you can keep your mind on a clear vision and goal.
How do I Start?
Remember — everyone’s body is different. What works for one person might not work for another, so listen to your body and do what feels good for you. Online workouts, like those on YouTube, are a great, free way to try new things. If you can, a gym membership or fitness coach can help too. But honestly, the easiest way to stay active is by moving throughout your day — walk around the block, do some jumping jacks, squats, or push-ups. It all counts!
Develop a Schedule
Once you have an idea of your fitness goals, write down a simple plan and schedule to stay on track. It’s always smart to mix up different workouts. Running is great for burning calories, but doing it too often can be tough on your joints. Most experts suggest limiting running to once or twice a week and adding more walking since it’s low-impact and safe for almost everyone.
Also, remember to write down a good idea of what your days will look like and strive to stay consistent in your workouts and schedule, reaching that goal! It’s okay to have a rest day, and you can also switch out a workout with an easier, more moderate one if you're tired that day. You can alter your schedule as much as you want, so long as you have a goal, your determination will get you there.
Popular Workout Strategies
Pilates ( A mix of yoga and stretching with also gaining strength and core flexibility)
Yoga (stretching out tension in your muscles and bringing a calming mindset)
Strength training ( lifting weights and building muscle)
Cardio (usually running, walking, swimming, or jumping to improve your heart health and burn calories)
Final Thoughts
Fitness isn’t about being perfect — it’s about progress, consistency, and taking care of your body and mind. Whether you're just starting out or looking to stay motivated, remember that every small step counts. Stay patient with yourself, celebrate your wins, and don’t be afraid to adjust your routine as you grow. The goal is to build healthy habits that last and support a strong, balanced life. You’ve got this!
