Prevention (Australia)

Movements for EVERY MOOD

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1 WHEN YOU’RE BORED

Whether you’ve lost interest with your exercise routine or just bored in general, a dance class might be the answer. “It’ll challenge your co-ordination, because you really have to think about what you’re doing,” says Tally. “You’re learning as you’re doing it, but you can have so much fun.”

2 WHEN YOU’RE TIRED

Feeling exhausted after a long week at work? Firstly, question whether you need to exercise at all. However, if you really feel your body needs some kind of movement, then make it gentle. “I’d recommend yin yoga for relaxing into varied positions,” advises Tally. It involves holding different poses for a long time, and your body will thank you for matching your low energy levels with a slow-paced practice.

3 WHEN YOU’RE STRESSED

If you’ve had a tough day, the last thing you should do is go into another stressful environmen­t such as the gym. “When you’re stressed, that need to ‘sweat it out’ seems like it’d be helpful, but actually the most useful thing would be to slow down,” says Tally. “I recommend going swimming. You’re moving your body, but you really have time to yourself. There’s no one talking to you and you can’t check your phone or listen to music.”

4 WHEN YOU’RE STIFF

Too much time at a desk can leave you feeling achy and rigid, and that doesn’t lend itself well to something such as a run or a team sport. “Reformer Pilates is a great one for stiffness, although classes can be pricey,” says Tally. Reformer Pilates is more intense than the mat-based variety, as it involves a reformer machine complete with springs, ropes and pulleys that provide plenty of resistance to stretch and loosen up your body.

5 WHEN YOU’RE SLUGGISH

It’s the weekend and you’re feeling lethargic. We’ve all been there. Nothing will give you an energy boost quite like interval training. “A HIIT-style workout that’s only about 15 minutes will get you sweaty and give you the endorphins you need for when you’re feeling sluggish,” says Tally. And the best thing about interval training is that it’s short, sharp and effective – so you can go back to your day feeling spurred on.

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