Physical activity is one of the best ways to improve self-esteem. Why? Because when we exercise we feel good about ourselves. After I exercise I feel really good about myself because I feel that I have taken care of my body, I have spent time with myself. My muscles are toned, I feel flexible and with a lot of energy. Besides that, I had had fun and I have become aware of my body. There are many ways you can exercise to improve your self-esteem. Some people prefer aerobic exercises, or lifting weights or yoga. It does not matter what kind of exercise you do. The important thing for me is to choose some kind of exercise that I like and I feel comfortable doing . I have done a lot of different exercises through out my life, like rowing, running, aerobics, calisthenic, weight lifting. However, I usually try to combine what it feels best for me. I actually run 3 to 4 times a week and I go to the gym and lift some weights. I like to take advantage of the warm weather so when is warm I am usually walk or run instead of going to the gym. What I have learned is that is really important to choose something I enjoy doing instead of forcing myself to do some kind of exercise that I have to do because I was told that it was better than another. The idea for me to exercise to improve my self-esteem is to do something that I enjoy, that makes me feel good and that I am looking forward to do it again. Is not a torture, is not something that I have to do it. That way the results will be better. Sometimes if you want to loose weight or gain weight for example, is ok to commit yourself to a plan until you reach your goal. This will help you also to improve your self-esteem. Because you will feel proud about yourself regarding your commitment, and the achievement of your goals. However, once you reach your goal, I would suggest to keep exercising with something that you really enjoy and to adopt physical fitness as part of your daily life. Some tips when exercising: Make sure to drink water before, during and after exercising. Never impose exercises that you don't like. Always do something you enjoy. Exercise regularly, is better to do it regularly than all at once. For example, if you run, do it 3 to 4 times a week during 20 minutes instead of 2 hours every two weeks. Always listen to your body, if you have to stop, stop. Remember that sometimes we think that punching a bag will help us to get rid of our anger, it might do it temporarily. But the best way to get rid of these emotions is through internal work. "Take care of your body. It's the only place you have to live." -- Jim Rohn |
