When was the last time you played?

According to Stuart Brown, MD, author of Play, we are designed to play, however our society negates the idea of play when we approach adulthood.

The result?  We want to play, but feel we should not engage in this behavior.

Fortunately, our society is beginning to encourage new, acceptable types of play for adults, such as exercise.

The next time you plan your week ahead, approach exercise as your time to play.

 When will you “play” this week?

3 Key Reasons to Address Exercise as  Play

• More positive attitude
• Increased retention to your exercise routine
• More attracted to exercise
• Become revitalized, committing to adopt and maintain an active lifestyle

Research says…

• Play excites nerve growth in the brain regions that process emotions and executive function.
• Play promotes open-mindedness, facilitating the development of stronger relationships with friends, family, and colleagues.
• Play develops new neural networks, which aid your unconscious mind to solve problems.  Have you ever figured out a solution to a problem while exercising?  That why!

Current Trends in Play

Punk Rope

• www.punkrope.com

Obstacle-Course Racing

• Tough Mudder:  www.toughmudder.com
• Men’s Health Urbanathlon:  www.mhurb.com
• Spartan Race:  www.spartanrace.com
• Warrior Dash:  www.warriordash.com

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)

• If you love jumping into the ring and fighting, you may want to consider earning a MMA Conditioning Specialist credential in which you will educate clients about Mixed Martial Arts and inspire them to participate in this type of play. 
  
• For more information about this certification, visit www.nasm.org/mma.

TRX Suspension Training

• www.trxtraining.com

Is a specific program, like the ones mentioned above, of no interest to you?

You do not need a specific program to play – It is a mind-set. Think like a kid!

If you are a gym-rat, you may consider performing a “triathlon” using a rowing machine, treadmill, and bike.

If you prefer to be outdoors, you may consider playing hide-and-seek or tag in a safe park.

Just think:  How can I return to me inner child?

You are a kid at heart!

Reference:

Fiske, B. (2014). The Power of Play. The Training Edge, Spring, 22-25. Retrieved from http://thetrainingedgemagazine.com/issues/NASM-Training-Edge-Spring-2014.pdf.