Keeping Healthy By Joining Community Events

​For some of us it seems to be a continual struggle to stay on track when it comes to our fitness goals. But joining community events is a great way to get your exercise, socialize and have fun all at the same time.
 
Last Saturday, August 6th Natatia and 14 of her clients participated in the annual Rideau Paddlefest 2016. The Rideau Paddlefest is a free daylong event held at Lower Reach Park. Not only does the event host canoe races but offers paddling demonstrations, canoe tours, food and live music. It’s a great way to celebrate the Rideau Canal, stay active and have fun.
 
Natatia’s team’s name was Natatia’s One On One Warriors with Natatia herself leading the team. The 200m race against Real Action team started off pretty strong until Natatia broke her seat in the bow, which caused the team to lose synchronization, which slowed them down. But the team lost by only 0.64 seconds to Real Action. Natatia’s One On One Warriors’ second race was a 500m race against Spur of the Moment in which they won by a good spread of 35 seconds. At the quarterfinal they raced against Kilmarnock Enterprise and was forced to go around a police boat that was in the way at the turning point, which set them back once again. Despite the losses it was a fun and enjoyable time for everyone and Natatia was so proud of the team's efforts.
 
The point is exercising with others is a great motivator and if you’re currently sedentary it’s a positive way to start an exercise routine, and to stick with it. Competition is a great motivator as well as the camaraderie, which can help you cope with stress, decrease the likeliness of illness and speed recovery.
 
Three of the highlights of working out with others are:
 
1. Motivation: If you’re the type to get out of bed before you get ready for work to get in your fitness routine, kudos to you, but most likely your like so many others that need that extra push.
 
2. Accountability: Naturally we don’t want to let others down and that fear of letting your fitness partner down is sure to keep you on track.
 
3. Camaraderie: The majority of us like to be around others, laughing, sharing and just having fun. Adding friends to the equation of working out only enhances your experience, and you just may find yourself looking forward to exercising.
 
And, although it’s definitely okay to exercise alone doing so with a fitness buddy, a group class, or simply a community event may just bring out the Warrior in you.