Creating Your Exercise Space
The type of exercise you do will determine, at least in part, where you will exercise. For example, walking can be done outside in the neighborhood, on a treadmill in your house, outside at a track, inside at the mall, or even inside on a track. All of these locations would be appropriate for walking.
However, it is wise always to have alternative plans in place should something come up, either weather- or life-related, that would make your location plans change. For example, in the heat of summer many avid outdoor walkers become mall walkers. It is free and air-conditioned!
Fact
Walking clubs abound at many local area malls. Some hospitals and health centers even have clubs designed for mall walking; many are geared toward women. You might even find that some programs are pregnancy and/or new mom specific. Try calling your local mall or hospital education programs to see if there is such a walking club in your area.
Exercising at Home
If you are a person who prefers to work out in your home, there are accommodations to be made there, too. This area of your home should be a place that you can easily change into your workout area, or even better, leave as your workout area. You want a well-ventilated and open space in which to do your workouts.
Which room works best, you ask? If you occasionally do a pregnancy workout tape, you will want your space to be near a television and a VCR. If you like to see the outdoors while doing yoga, choose a spot near a window. The actual room itself is not the question, except when dealing with issues of space and practicality. Nearly any room will do.
The flooring surface might be an issue, depending on what type of exercise you choose. You might not have a choice of flooring, but you definitely want to ensure that you remove rugs that you could easily fall on or trip over, as well as pieces of furniture that are too close to the exercise area. (This does not mean moving large pieces of furniture on your own as a part of a weightlifting routine.) Know what accessories, if any, will be needed for your workout and keep them nearby.
Alert
Phones, doorbells, and pagers — they all have a way of going off while you are working out. Remember that this time is your time to work out. Avoid all unnecessary interruptions for the workout period. This will help ensure a better workout and give you a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of life.
Once you have chosen your space, remember to gather supplies before you start. There is nothing more frustrating than having to pause a tape to run to get a chair for balance, or remembering halfway through your yoga workout that you left your props in the trunk of the car. Also remember to bring your water bottle with you. You might want a towel if you perspire — anything you might need during the course of the workout.
