It’s not unusual for fear to keep us from trying new exercise classes or physical challenges. If you find that you are avoiding a new activity because you think you won’t measure up, the only way out is through. Sign up for the activity, put the date and time in your calendar and get your butt out the door. No excuses!
Here’s my example. I’ve always wanted to try Bikram Yoga and an “instructor friend” invited me to her class. Unfortunately, I feel quite a bit of pressure to perform when the instructor knows that I’m a trainer. Also, after years of taking tamoxifen for the breast cancer I had in 2006, I don’t always tolerate extreme heat well. As you may or may not know, the class is done in a room heated to about 100 degrees. Well, I went to my first Bikram Yoga class last night and I don’t think I’ve ever sweat like that. I found it profoundly therapeutic and can’t wait to go back. Learning a new activity will keep both your exercise adherence and your personal confidence high. If you don't have any medical contraindications, I challenge you to schedule your class or activity in the next 15 minutes.
Takeaway: If you do decide to try Bikram Yoga, drink plenty of fluids during the day, have a piece of fruit or light snack several hours prior to the class and take an extra towel or two and a water bottle with you. And be sure to tell your instructor that it’s your first time. If you have any health conditions that might make hot yoga unsafe, be sure to get your MDs OK first.
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