From the Mat to the Mountain: Why One Sport is Not Enough

I've always loved sports. Whether I'm good at them or not has never really mattered; it's all about how they make me feel. From netball teams and running races to canoe clubs and outdoor pursuits, trying new sports has always been a passion of mine. One thing I've realised as I've gotten older is the importance of continually exploring new activities and encouraging others to see that one sport is never enough.

As a Pilates instructor, I can tell you that doing just one class a week or relying on a single type of exercise isn't enough. It's like expecting to get all your nutrients from one type of food. Just as we aim for a balanced diet by eating a variety of foods, we should strive for a balanced exercise routine by engaging in different types of sports. Think of your fitness routine as a colourful palette, similar to the "eat the rainbow" approach to nutrition. Each sport brings its own benefits, contributing to your overall health and well-being.

But don't worry, you don't have to join multiple clubs or attend numerous classes to achieve this balance. There are plenty of ways to incorporate exercise into your daily habits without sticking to a rigid schedule. To help you paint your exercise rainbow, we've categorised different types of sports and activities by colour. Try to incorporate these into your week and see how vibrant your fitness routine can become.

RED:Cardiovascular Sports
Running or Jogging: Great for your heart and lungs, and it’s easy to start.
Cycling: Whether it’s a spin class or a bike ride, cycling boosts your endurance.

Orange: Strength Training
Weightlifting: Helps build muscle and improve bone density.
Bodyweight Exercises: Push-ups, squats, and lunges can be done anywhere.

 Yellow: Flexibility and Balance
Pilates Enhances core strength and flexibility.
Yoga: Promotes balance and mental well-being.

 Green: Outdoor Activities
Hiking: Connects you with nature while providing a full-body workout.
Gardening: Surprisingly effective for strength and flexibility.

 Blue: Water Sports
Swimming: Low-impact and excellent for cardiovascular health.
Canoeing/Kayaking: Builds upper body strength and coordination.

 Purple: Team Sports
Netball/Basketball: Improve your coordination and teamwork.
Soccer/Football: Great for cardiovascular health and leg strength.

Remember, the key is variety. Mix and match these activities to keep your routine exciting and comprehensive. By doing so, you’ll not only stay motivated but also ensure that you’re giving your body the balanced workout it needs. So go ahead, try something new, and keep painting your fitness rainbow!

Hope you like our colourful approach, please comment below if you have tried this?

thanks Anna