Transforming Fitness into a Lifestyle: Insights from Advantage Physical Therapy

Regular physical activity is among the most beneficial actions you can take for your well-being.

It aids in maintaining your strength, promotes heart health, and elevates your spirits. Engaging in physical activity can enhance your sleep, improve clarity of thought, and boost your energy levels. Most importantly, you don’t require expensive gear or extensive workout time to reap these advantages.

Yet, initiating an exercise regimen is one matter – adhering to it is a different challenge. Here are some validated strategies to incorporate exercise as a continual aspect of your daily routine:

Begin Small, Achieve Great

• Even 5-10 minutes of activity is beneficial
• Gradually increase as you find it easier
• Don’t forget to acknowledge your minor achievements along the journey

Integrate Exercise into Your Daily Activities

• Attempt 10 squats while your coffee brews
• Perform counter push-ups while your meal is in the microwave
• Stretch during commercial breaks
• Practice engaging your core while lifting your children

Make it Enjoyable

• Select activities you find enjoyable
• Experiment with various forms of exercise until you discover what resonates
• Join a walking group, fitness class, or work out with a companion

Ensure it Becomes a Habit

• Studies indicate that exercising 4 times a week for 6 weeks is the minimum required to develop a habit
• Schedule workout sessions in your calendar and regard them as significant as any other important appointment
• Packing your gym bag the night before may be beneficial

Seek Assistance

• Engage in workouts with friends or family
• Participate in group fitness classes
• Find an exercise partner

Need Guidance to Get Started?

As physical rehabilitation professionals, we specialize in movement and exercise. We can assist you in:

• Developing a safe workout plan tailored to your requirements
• Adapting to any discomfort or physical limitations
• Mastering proper techniques to avert injuries
• Safely enhancing strength and flexibility

Whether you are entirely new to exercise or returning after a hiatus, we are here to support you. Don’t allow pain or uncertainty to impede your progress – schedule an appointment to embark on your exercise journey correctly. If you are located in the Falls Church or Arlington, VA area, feel free to contact our office if you need any help!

Remember, the most effective exercise regimen is one that you will adhere to. Start small, progress gradually, and prioritize consistency over flawlessness. Your future self will express gratitude!

About The Private Practice Section of the American Physical Therapy Association

Established in 1956, the Private Practice Section of the American Physical Therapy Association advocates for the success of physical therapy-owned practices. Our members are trailblazers and pioneers in the healthcare landscape. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) represents over 85,000 physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and physical therapy students nationwide. For more details, please visit www.ppsapta.org.

Author

Alana Hamilton
Alana Hamilton is a physical therapist at Advantage Physical Therapy in Falls Church, Virginia. She is a proud Virginia Tech alumnus with a major in Biology and a minor in psychology and sociology. Right after graduating, she earned her doctorate in Physical Therapy from Radford University. An enthusiastic fan of Pilates, running, and hiking, she spends her weekends enjoying time with her family and baby, as well as participating in Spartan races with her former physical therapy classmates and friends. Alana truly believes that during recovery, “Motion is the Lotion” and that staying active is crucial for good health.