Exercising Outside the Box with Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding

Developing a fitness routine can be challenging and fun, because there is always something new to try. But sometimes people find themselves in an exercise rut. Maybe you have the consistency part down pat, but the routines have become a bit stale. Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding presents some new and unique fitness routines to spice up your workouts.

Group Motivation

Fitness gurus are always reinventing exercise classes. Some fads come and go, but the following unique fitness routines are worth trying out. If you’re shy, coax a friend into trying one of these new fitness programs with you.

• Aerial dance/yoga – Both aerial dance and yoga, also called “anti-gravity” yoga use hanging apparatuses or “silks.” The silks are used to help people go into poses or movements. You’ll improve your balance, strength and flexibility.
• Karaoke spin class – A new trend worth trying combines indoor cycling with karaoke. As you build your endurance and cardio health, you can sing to songs you love. Some people say it’s so much fun, they don’t realize how long they’ve been exercising.
• Rowing – While rowing machines are not new to gyms, they’re making a comeback. Rowing classes are becoming widespread, with many aimed at beginners. This workout burns calories rapidly and strengthens many muscles in your body. Not only does it help with weight loss, but also with stress reduction.

Unique Fitness Routines at Home

These exercises can be done at home, which is helpful when you’re pressed for time. Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding suggests recording at-home workouts in your fitness journal to keep track of details.

• Exercise cards – For a varied workout each day, try exercise cards. Each card has a different at-home exercise you can do, such as leg lifts or arm circles. You can even create your own workout plan simply using a deck of playing cards and a timer.
• Chair workouts – These low-impact but effective strengthening exercises are great for everybody. Begin with four basic exercises 2-3 times a week and increase from there. These routines are great to intersperse with your cardio exercise.
• Step up to the challenge – Have a flight of stairs in your home? Try stair workouts at varied pacing for a strength, cardio and endurance workout. Stair workouts can take as little as 10-15 minutes, but you’ll continue burning more calories afterwards.

There are many ways to keep your workouts interesting. While sticking to one time of day for working out is ideal, you can always vary the length and type of workout you do. If you’re on the lookout for unique fitness routines, you’ll have no trouble staying motivated.

Consultations with Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding

Are you interested in learning about your weight loss options, including gastric sleeve? Contact an expert like Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding. Visit the NYU Weight Management Program today.