Hating exercise is not really about hating exercise. For most Trinis, we live a “work hard, play hard” lifestyle that leaves us depleted at the end of our long days, with little to no energy for any physical activity. After a gruelling day at work, to return home to start the second shift also known as parenthood, the last thing you may want to do is drive to the gym for a workout that does nothing to energise or invigorate you. The reality is, 30 minutes of daily exercise will do wonders for your state of mind, energy levels and heart health. And with the Carnival season fast approaching, getting road ready means sticking with a routine that’s easy to maintain and can promise serious results. So what can you do that’s low impact, doesn’t take you far from home, and can be accomplished in as little as 20 to 30 minutes? Run!

First things first – Know Thyself

There is a lot of conflicting information about the best time of day for exercise. One study may tout the caloric effect of an early morning workout, only to be debunked by another that says a night time session boosts metabolism. Be that as it may, the best results come from committing to a course of action that’s true to who you are. If you absolutely hate waking in the morning one minute before you have to, you won’t be able to stick to a 5:00am running routine. A cool evening jog around your neighbourhood as the sun goes down might be more your speed. If your energy levels peak as the moon rises, use that to your advantage! Don’t get flustered with conflicting accounts of the best exercise times. In this case, know thyself.

Ensure you have the right gear.

Before you pull out your credit card for the latest in moisture wicking fabric that can Tweet and Facebook how many steps you took, stop! A loose fitting cotton t-shirt and comfortable shorts or tights will get the job done just as well and keep the weight right where you want it – your wallet. The one thing that you do need to invest in is a proper pair of running shoes. Before you visit a sporting-goods store, do your research and know the key factors in selecting a pair of sneakers that are comfortable and will last in the long run (pun intended!) When you’re ready to make the purchase, be sure to ask the sales associate to size your feet. The last thing you want is to develop blisters on your first lap around the Savannah!

Next – the essential running playlist

Hey-hah! There is nothing like a good power tune from the Boy to get your blood pumping and your feet itching to move. Getting the playlist right will go a long way towards a successful run. For the uninitiated, we recommend a balanced mix of power and groovy soca, with a few dashes of the latest pop and R&B. Alternate songs with fast, medium and slow tempos, and match your pace to the beat of the music. Sprint for the length of a power tune, jog to groovy, and walk to the slower paced songs. This strategy alternates quick bursts of energy with enough rest breaks so that you are not overwhelmed and avoid the risk of over-exerting yourself.

Fuel the fire!

Do not carbo load. Repeat: do not carbo load! Running on a full stomach can only lead to (messy) disaster. However, it is important to raise your blood sugar so that you have the energy to push yourself through the third lap around Eddie Hart Grounds. A small snack of tuna and avocado seasoned with shadon beni, lime, tomatoes, onions and pimento on top of a rice cake provides just enough delicious nutrients for a great run. After the run, another serving of protein will aid your muscle in repairing itself after all that exertion. The classic meal of brown rice, veggies, and chicken is highly recommended, but it’s also boring and bland. Toss the veggies in Dijon mustard, salt and lime, and roast your chicken breast with ginger, garlic and rosemary for a flavour punch.

Take Away Your “Outs”

If you lack the proper motivation to make a daily run part of your life, remaining consistent will always be an uphill battle. But even if you are motivated, life tends to get in the way of even the best intentions. Don’t be hard on yourself! There will be days when driving home in traffic saps your energy, your sinuses act up, or you opted for an after-work lime instead. Stay on track by removing the “outs” that make it easier later to make excuses for not running that day. Take your workout clothes with you to work, and change into them before you leave the office. Announce your goals publicly on Facebook – you can trust that your tanty and uncle will hold you accountable!

At the end of the day, your level of determination and motivation will determine how well you incorporate running into your lifestyle. We hope these tips help to keep you on the path to your best health!

Hungry for more? Read all our Health and Wellness tips!