By Amanda Gabriel
Elm Staff Writer
Working out has transformed from simply allotting a specific amount of time to spend in the gym to burning calories in numerous atypical ways. Although Chestertown is a small area and does not appear to have as many resources as a large city, if you get creative with your workouts, then sweating no longer has to feel like a chore.
One of my favorite unconventional ways of working out is incorporating the tires and sledgehammers available in the JFC into my movements. Flipping tires is not only a full body workout, but also a great way to relieve stress and anger. However, make sure that your fitness level is ready to take on this challenge and a trainer is present, because if your form is improper, you could end up hurting yourself.
Another great way to burn calories is to go for a run. One of my favorite pastimes is running a mile from the crosswalk to the river. Running is a great way to clear your mind, and you can go at your own pace. Additionally, the change in scenery is a marvelous way to switch up your routine and the view by the water is stunning.
After running to the water, I also like to participate in a park workout that I create on the spot. You can follow my lead and double up on cardio and body weight movements with a park workout, or if you are not comfortable doing both, then take time to walk down to the water and do a park workout as your main exercise instead. Usually I will run to the water by the Fish Whistle and walk to the boat pavilion as my recovery. Once I arrive, I will create some type of workout for myself by picking a few types of targeted movements such as squats, lunges, sit ups, pushups, dips, box jumps, etc. Next I will decide the number of reps and rounds. Your workout is completely up to you, which is part of the fun because you get to decide how hard you push yourself.
Lastly, make sure to take advantage of the variety of workouts that are available here at WAC. Yoga, Insanity, dance classes, and Zumba are all offered in the studio room in the JFC. Moreover, the tennis, basketball, and wall ball courts are at your disposal as well. Playing a sport for fun with a friend or friends is an excellent way to stay active.