Shape Up This Summer
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Tracy Evans never attends an event, birthday, or grand opening without someone asking her for tips on getting in shape.
Tracy Evans never attends an event, birthday, or grand opening without someone asking her for tips on getting in shape.
As the owner of Woodward Wellness Center, she has helped many people start their fitness journeys.
Evans isn’t alone in this endeavor. Two other fitness experts from Woodward mentioned that many people feel motivated to improve their health and fitness during the summer, and they encourage locals to find a routine that suits them and stick with it.
"The best exercise is the one you'll stick with," Evans said. "Lifting is crucial, especially for women. Even though people spend more time outdoors in the summer, it's important not to skip weightlifting."
An article in Healthline states that weight training can boost muscle mass while reducing fat. Although the numbers on the scale might not change if muscle and fat levels shift equally, the body often looks and feels different.
You might notice a slimmer waist, for example. Strength training also helps maintain bone health.
Besides exercising, Evans emphasized the importance of staying hydrated during Oklahoma's hot summers.
"I always tell people, if you're thirsty while running and only then grab a drink, you're probably already dehydrated," she said.
"Stay hydrated during your run, and make sure you have properly fitting shoes to avoid injuries."
Woodward Wellness Center offers comprehensive fitness packages, including spin classes, yoga, boot camp, and dance classes.
They provide multiple sessions of each class every week. For more information, visit woodwardwellnesscenter.com.
Melissa Burling of Peak Fitness in Woodward echoed Evans' views, emphasizing the importance of summer exercise.
"Exercising in the summer is essential for your overall health," Burling said. "It provides strength now and as you age. Exercise also boosts both strength and confidence."
Burling highlighted the importance of leg exercises in any summer fitness regimen. She mentioned that squats and lunges with dumbbells are her go-to exercises for improving balance.
She urged Woodward residents to maintain their fitness routines during summer.
"Summer can get busy, and we often neglect our overall health," she said. "It's easy to lose progress, which is why sticking to a routine is so important."
At Peak Fitness, Burling said members always support each other.
"We have many iron weights, and our members, ranging in age from 13 to 90, come in to lift," she said.
"Everyone at our gym is like one big family, always helping each other achieve their goals."
Source: woodwardnews
The opinions shared in the GymNation blog articles are solely those of the respective authors and may not represent the perspectives of GymNation or any member of the GymNation team.