TAPPING INTO SPORTY SPICE

With summer in the air and real-life re-emerging, you can inevitably find me, the self-proclaimed “introvert ironically stimulated by external action,” finding any way to be in the sun running around. Good-bye to the days of sitting in my roommate’s window sill attempting to absorb the sun and mimic the hot summer feeling, when in reality, New York was flirting with below-freezing temperatures. Excited by the summer air and the action of the city, my body is ready to move. Of course, the heat waves cause exhaustion from time to time, and running around gets a bit overwhelming- but alas, my mind has me antsy for free movement unbound by my apartment walls. 

Undoubtedly, my excitement to find ways to make the most of my summer movement has me nostalgic for my sports days. I miss the camaraderie of team spirit, the competition fueled by thrill, and the feeling of flying freely on the ice or field. Although I am no longer engaged in a formal sport, I believe that the inner athleticism in me deserves to buzz this summer. As I begin to tap into this athletic energy, I can not help but notice that many people around me are also itching to get moving. 

Finding ways to mimic and re-create these feelings is a challenge. For those resistant to my proposal that this is the summer of embracing your inner athlete, let me offer you a rephrased version: this is the summer of embracing movement and giving back to our bodies after a long, extended winter of sitting inside. Realistically, how each person embraces their inner athleticism will look be unique and personal. Here are some basic but never failing ways to get moving this summer and embrace your inner athlete: 

I’ll be honest: I am most definitely not a distance runner. But there’s nothing like moving freely through space that ignites the fire in me. Put on a good playlist, equip yourself with a hot girl/boy fit, and get yourself going. You would be surprised by the confidence that comes with fire background music, a strong fit, and a go-getter attitude.

Whether in a city or your neighborhood, consider walking to your destinations. Walking is not only an efficient way to sneak in some movement on a busy day, but it is also a great way to tap into the mind and realign yourself with your thoughts. Not in the mood to decompress or potentially overthink? Walking is also a great way to socialize with a friend or catch up on all those podcasts you’ve wanted to listen to. (some of my favs include: “Thinking is Cool,” “Friend of a Friend,” and “Anything Goes”) 

Growing up, my sister was a competitive tennis player, which naturally forced me to chose a different sport early on (for hopefully apparent “sister rivalry” issues). But, this did not stop me from growing to love the sport recreationally. Round up friends and make this weekend’s activity a day at the court or field. 

If social distancing taught me anything, it’s that community is a significant contributor to my wellness motivation. I won’t lie; I have learned to find pleasure in simple and efficient workouts rather than needing to join the intense hour-long (sometimes overhyped) workout classes. But, sometimes, those loud music sweaty rooms filled with class goers who made the same decision to show up is what I need. Especially when I’m in a slump or in need of that extra sweat, group fitness classes rarely fail to remind me of why I love movement so much.  

Whatever your movement of choice will be this summer, make sure you give back to your body and mind by listening to what they really want from you. Get moving, stay hydrated, and embrace the heat!