Two prominent figures from the fitness and entertainment worlds, Denise Austin and Brie Larson, have recently opened up about their unique approaches to maintaining health and motivation through exercise. Their inspiring journeys highlight how different workouts can energize life and provide motivation, especially for those struggling to stay active.
Denise Austin, renowned for her fitness expertise and cheerful demeanor, recently shared her workout routines via Instagram. At the age of 67, she demonstrated three low-impact exercises focusing on toning the abs, underscoring the idea of consistent, manageable workouts. Austin, whose mantra of motivation resonates with many, stated, "#MotivationMonday with three of my FAVORITE moves to trim the waistline!! They are low-impact and will work wonders if you do them consistently!! Try to do each move for at least one minute!!" This simple advice reflects her core belief: small, consistent actions can lead to remarkable changes.
Austin's exercises include forward lunges with twists, cardio core twists, and standing side crunches. Each move not only targets the core but is also accessible for different fitness levels, making them particularly appealing for older adults or those new to exercise. For example, the forward lunge and twist works on the thighs and glutes, adding the benefit of twisting to engage the obliques. This combination ensures users can work multiple muscle groups at once, making their workouts effective yet manageable.
Following her lead, actress Brie Larson offers another rich layer to the exercise narrative. Known primarily for her role as Captain Marvel, Larson has committed to dance as her primary fitness focus. Having initially stepped onto this path last year after feeling the desire to dance, she has since ended up dancing for more than three hours daily. Larson says, "I realized I was not supporting my system for how much I was asking of it," hinting at the balance she seeks between pushing herself and honoring her body’s need for rest.
Finding joy and liberation through dance, Larson cherishes her time in the studio not just for exercise but as a means to escape from the constant pull of technology. She shares, "I don’t even think about my phone during [dance]. It's just time with my body and figuring out how to use it." This sentiment encapsulates the importance of exercise as not just physical activity but as mental and emotional wellness.
While these two women approach fitness differently, they each carry the same message: aligning exercises with one’s interests can lead to joyful, sustainable habits. Larson's dance classes revolve around learning choreography and enjoying the rhythm, emphasizing how exercise can be fun rather than just another task on the to-do list. The physical benefits are intertwined with emotional and mental satisfaction.
For those seeking motivation, experts suggest mixed strategies for finding the drive to work out. Luke Carlson, founder of Discover Strength, emphasizes the necessity of variety, declaring, "When I’m not feeling motivated to lift, I switch up my routine to spark some excitement." He reinforces the idea of viewing exercise as adaptable rather than something set in stone. For some, switching from one type of workout to another can ignite new passion rather than sticking to the same tired routine.
To introduce variety, personal trainer Josh York advises trying different forms of cardio or mixing up strength training methods. Keeping workout routines fresh can lead to unexpected enjoyment and discovery. If yoga becomes stale, perhaps hiking or swimming might ignite enthusiasm.
Beginning with shorter, more manageable exercise goals is another powerful strategy. Ellen Thompson, a personal trainer at Blink Fitness, suggests starting with just ten minutes of activity daily. This approach, often referred to as “exercise snacks,” can include walking, body-weight exercises, or simple stretching. Such small commitments mitigate feelings of overwhelm, gradually paving the way for longer, more intense sessions as one builds endurance and confidence.
Scheduling workouts is another technique recommended by Lee Holden, Qi Gong master and teacher. He stresses incorporating exercise time as one would any important task. Putting it on the calendar can reinforce its priority, reducing the likelihood of letting it slip through the cracks. Consistency is often more meaningful than perfect timing, and finding the time to blend workouts seamlessly with daily routines can instill long-lasting habits.
Smoothing over potential barriers makes exercise even more attainable. Alex Banta, therapist at Thriveworks, suggests anticipating obstacles the day before workouts. This may mean preparing gym bags or ensuring all necessary workout gear is ready to go. By preempting the small hassles, it’s easier to maintain commitment to the goal.
Having workout buddies can significantly boost motivation. Martyn Oakey, fitness head at Everlast Gyms, notes the benefits of community involvement. Finding friends or colleagues to join you for workouts or even classes can create accountability. Not only do these alliances provide the needed structure to one’s fitness plan, but they also add fun and camaraderie along the way.
Sometimes, treating oneself can offer the nudge needed to get moving. Kira Jones, CEO of Cacti Wellness, encourages associational rewards with exercise. By linking favorite podcasts or shows to workout sessions, individuals may find themselves eager to hit the gym, transforming exercise from obligation to treat. This strategy can turn workouts from tedious to enjoyable, leading aspiring fitness buffs to stay engaged longer.
Denise Austin’s heartfelt approach and Brie Larson’s dance-filled routine exemplify two approaches to fitness filled with energy and vitality. They not only shatter the stereotype of exercise as monotonous outreach but also highlight the interchangeable relationship between wellness, joy, and creativity. Whether you’re lunging your way to fitness or twirling through classes, it’s all about finding what resonates, pushing through inertia, and discovering the fun behind movement.