We’ve heard the common question, “Where do you want to be in 5 years?” How have you answered it?

“I want to have $___ in the bank.”

“I want to be working for ___company.”

“I want to be retired, own a house, volunteer more …” You get the idea.

Have you ever thought about how you want to be moving your body in 5-10 years? What are you doing today to invest in your 5-10 year future self? What you do today is changing you for tomorrow.

Our human bodies are meant to move in all different ways and on all kinds of terrain. During most days, we are indoors, walking on flat, smooth surfaces, wearing cushioned and supportive shoes, and sitting while looking at screens.

I challenge you to get outside and walk barefoot in the grass or sand (it will help ground you and calm you too). Sit on the floor or on a low surface. Lift heavy weights at least twice a week. Climb up things higher than a step, balance on downed trees, duck under things, step over things, reach high for things. Place daily use items in your kitchen so you are reaching and squatting down more. Jump and move fast - sprint if you can. Change direction fast. Doesn’t it sound like being a kid again?

Think of movement like we do food. If your days are packed, get some movement “snacks” throughout the day. Skip from one room to the next. Side shuffle to your kitchen. Squat down to pick something up and stay there for a moment.

All of these fun ways for us to play can be done at home or in your neighborhood. If you are in our area, we have Outdoor Classes and private training. Follow us on Youtube, Instagram, and Facebook for exercise videos and tips.

Written by Kristina Cagno, MA Exercise Science