The Fitness Playground: Unconventional ways to train and have fun
In the modern world, where urbanization is on the rise and open spaces for physical activities are scarce, maintaining an active lifestyle has become increasingly challenging.
Coupled with sedentary habits and the prevalence of processed foods, a significant portion of the population faces the risk of developing metabolic disorders at an early age. In this context, inactivity itself can be viewed as a disease, contributing to the alarming rates of diabetes, hypertension, thyroid issues, high cholesterol, and more. Traditional solutions like gym memberships have become commercialized and may not be accessible to everyone, especially in urban areas where space is limited and costs are prohibitive. However, there is a growing movement towards embracing unconventional ways to train and have fun, promoting physical fitness as a lifestyle rather than a chore.
The Project Temple initiative by Nepali Youth Fitness & Calisthenics (NYFC) offers a refreshing approach to staying active without the confines of a traditional gym. With over outdoor calisthenics 35 parks established across the country, the project aims to provide easily accessible fitness spaces where individuals can engage in free community classes and exercise using local resources.
So, how does one embark on this journey towards an active lifestyle without stepping foot into a gym?
For beginners, the emphasis is on utilizing one's body weight through simple yet effective exercises. The routine includes movements like hip bridges, chair squats, reverse lunges, and plank holds, which mimic daily activities and enhance functional fitness. With a target of 50 repetitions per exercise, gradually increasing by 10 percent each week, participants can build strength and endurance over time.
Use the following as a simple template:
Day 1 - Hip Bridges, Tower Rows & Plank hold for as long as possible
Day 2 - Chair Squats, Kneeling Push Ups & Side Plank on Left Side for as long as possible
Day 3 - Reverse Lunges, Lying Y raises, & Side Plank on Right Side for as long as possible
Day 4 - Hindu Push Ups & Wall Sit for as long as possible
The target is to get a total repetition of 50 reps of each exercises and increase it by 10 percent in repetitions every week.
This should be done at least for 6 weeks.
Intermediate individuals can incorporate additional resources such as water jars, sandbags, and resistance bands into their workouts. Exercises like pike push-ups, towel rows, and walking lunges challenge the body in new ways, promoting muscle growth and cardiovascular health. Moreover, activities like stick slams and sprint intervals add an element of excitement and variety to the routine, keeping participants engaged and motivated.
Tempate:
Day 1 - Bodyweight Squats, Pike Push Ups & Pull ups, (add support if necessary)
Day 2 - Hip Thrust with Water Jar or Gas cylinder, Towel Rows & Push Ups
Day 3 - Walking Lunges (100 Total Steps) & Mountain Climbers for max time
Day 4 - Get a stick or an axe like equipment and slam it on a sandbag or a tyre.
Day 5 - 15 seconds Sprints followed by 3 mins rest for 5 rounds
The target is to get a total repetition of 50 reps of each exercises and increase it by 10 percent in repetitions every week.
What sets the NYFC Project Temple apart is its emphasis on community and inclusivity. By providing free access to fitness parks and organizing group sessions led by young enthusiasts, NYFC fosters a supportive environment where individuals of all ages and backgrounds can come together to prioritize their health and well-being. This sense of unity and friendship not only enhances social bonds but also serves as a powerful motivator to stay active and committed to fitness goals.
Beyond the physical benefits, embracing an active lifestyle has far-reaching implications for overall health and quality of life. By incorporating movement into daily routines and finding joy in physical activity, individuals can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental well-being, and enhance productivity. Moreover, the accessibility and affordability of initiatives like the Fitness Playground make it possible for everyone to participate, regardless of their socioeconomic status or geographic location.
In a world where inactivity has become the norm, it's time to reclaim our health and vitality by exploring alternative avenues for staying active. Whether it's through outdoor workouts, community-led fitness programs, or innovative initiatives like the functional approch to staying active, the path to a healthier, happier life begins with a single step – or squat, or push-up. So, let's lace up our sneakers, gather our friends and family, and embark on this journey towards a fitter, more vibrant future together. By reimagining the way we approach exercise and prioritizing health and well-being, we can break free from the chains of inactivity and build a healthier, more vibrant future for ourselves and generations to come.
