Along with eating well and cultivating good sleep habits, regular exercise is key to staying fit, physically and mentally. But Arkansas professionals can find it difficult to integrate an effective fitness regimen into their schedules.
Fortunately, there’s options. In Arkansas, running, cycling, barre and hiking are popular. But there are others you might not have considered.
Each workout offers different benefits. By considering your personal fitness goals and available time, you can make an informed decision about the workout that’s right for you.
Below is a list of key workout options available in Arkansas, their benefits and about how much time they require.
Running
Running boosts your immune system and increases bone mass and lung function, reduces heart attack risks and helps you burn the maximum amount of calories. This workout’s for you if:
• you want to lose weight.
• you’d like to avoid the gym.
• you need to detach and de-stress.
Time commitment:
As long as you want!
Calorie burn:
500-1,400 calories per 60 minutes*
Weight Training
Weight training keeps muscles lean and strong, which helps mobility and prevents injury. Experts suggest sessions just two to three times a week to see results. This workout’s for you if…
• you prefer reps to timers.
• you want muscle definition.
Time commitment:
30-60 minutes
Calorie burn:
180-260 calories per 60-minute class*
CrossFit
CrossFit workouts combine elements of weightlifting, body-weight exercises, gymnastics and calisthenics for exercises that stress functional movements. This workout’s for you if…
• you want to lose weight or get ripped.
• increasing strength is a priority.
• you love a challenge and are goal-oriented.
• you prefer to workout in groups.
Time commitment:
60 minutes
Calorie burn:
700- 1,200 calories per 60-minute class*
Cycling
An intense but low-impact cardio workout that’s easy on the joints, cycling is great for those starting out with big weight-loss goals. This workout’s for you if…
• you’re looking for a strong community of enthusiasts.
• you want to protect your joints.
• you love getting outdoors.
Time commitment:
60 minutes
Calorie burn:
250- 900 per 60-minute ride*
Barre
Barre promotes improved posture, muscle definition, weight loss, increased flexibility and reduced stress. This workout’s for you if…
• you want to tighten up your booty, thighs and core.
• you prefer a slow pace (but still need your butt kicked).
• you’re pregnant.
• you like to make new friends.
Time commitment:
60 minutes
Calorie burn:
Up to 500 calories per hour class*
Yoga
As rejuvenating for the mind and soul as it is for the body, yoga is built on a series of poses and movements. This workout’s for you if…
• you need to reduce stress.
• you’d like to be more flexible.
• you’re pregnant or have arthritis or diabetes.
Time commitment:
60-90 minutes
Calorie burn:
150- 300 calories per 45-minute class*
Pilates
Pilates is a low-impact resistance-training exercise targeting back muscles, obliques, gluteals, thighs and abs, while improving flexibility and balance. This workout’s for you if…
• you want to improve flexibility.
• you prefer a relaxing setting.
• you want something you can do on a lunch break.
• you prefer small classes.
Time commitment:
45-60 minutes
Calorie burn:
200- 500 calories per 45-minute class*
Aerobics & Dance
Aerobic and dance improve the cardiovascular system. You’ll see increases in muscle mass and ligament and tendon strength. This workout’s for you if…
• gym equipment intimidates you.
• accountability helps keep you motivated.
• a personal trainer is not in your budget.
• you value the fun factor over everything else.
Time commitment:
45-60 minutes
Calorie burn:
350- 850 calories per 45-minute class*
Hiking & Rock Climbing
These activities offer improved cardiorespiratory health, affecting your lungs, heart and blood vessels. This workout’s for you if…
• you enjoy challenging yourself one-on-one.
• you seek adventure (or an adrenaline rush).
• you don’t mind (or prefer to be around) wildlife.
• you like puzzles.
Time commitment:
As long as you want
Calorie burn:
360- 700 per 60-minute hike/climb*
Tennis
Tennis offers a great anaerobic workout. Tennis players develop enhanced speed, balance, agility and cognitive ability over time, in addition to sharpening reflexes. This workout’s for you if…
• you want to combine many workouts into one.
• you need someone to help push you.
• you like to engage your mind while exercising.
Time commitment:
1-2 hours per match
Calorie burn:
420-620 calories per hour match*
Swimming
Swimming tones and builds lean muscles and gets your heart rate up while improving posture, coordination and balance. This workout’s for you if…
• you have bad joints of stiff muscles.
• you want to build endurance.
• you’re looking to improve your breathing.
Time commitment:
40-60 minutes
Calorie burn:
475-975 calories per 60-minutes*
*Based on 155-pound adult; averages sourced from SparkPeople.com
Sign up for Daily E-news
