It doesn't really matter what time of the year it is, if you're looking forward to your upcoming African adventure, I highly encourage you to join a gym, a bootcamp, or a workout program ASAP.
And, my love.. when you're working out, do that workout with OOMPH and do it with intention because these African streets will humble you!
Most Africans are quite fit- their diets are naturally healthy, filled with organic goodness, and they haven't even heard of half the processed junk we've become accustomed to.
It seems like they have energy for days! Not to mention, most of the fellas I've met on the continent love to play soccer, work out, go bike riding, hike, run and jog on a REGULAR basis.
But the MAIN REASON why you'll need to start exercising is because you're going to need more stamina than you think.
Depending on the time of the year, the weather can be intense! Ninety degrees in Ghana feels completely different compared to 90 degrees in NYC. I don't know why, but it's a fact! Is it because of how close Ghana is to the equator? The intensity of the sun rays? Babe, I don't know.. but it's different.
And those streets? Some aren't even paved, so be ready to have your core shaken AND stirred.
I'm not trying to scare you, but packing comfy footwear is a MUST! And allow me to stress the word COMFY. (read: crocs, quality running shoes, etc)
But don't worry. If you don't work out, it wont be the end of the world- your body will have no choice but to kick into gear but let's try to make the transition a bit smoother, shall we..
Huffing & puffing, gasping for air on what was supposed to be a chill afternoon stroll is nasty work, let's do better. LOL
Of course, everyone's experience will be different, but ask yourself:
- Do you drive practically everywhere when you're in the US? How much walking are you really doing, if any?
- Is your home town filled with drive-thru's for everything from food to pharmacy to banking?
- When was the last time you hit the gym consecutively, for three days in a row?
- Is that work-from-home position encouraging a sedentary lifestyle?
The hustle and bustle of Africa is waiting for you and I know sometimes I can get winded just running up a flight of stairs. Not a good look!
Now on the plus side, there's a HUGE chance that you'll lose some excess weight while traveling throughout the continent, between the heat, fresh fruits, and your exciting itinerary- you're bound to drop a few pounds. But who wants to spend the first half of their trip gasping for air while trying to complete the most basic tasks?
Strengthen your body as you prepare for this exciting moment in your life. My personal goal is to look and feel good within my body so if that means doing a few extra reps in the gym, i'm in there. If that means dragging myself into the gym after an extended hiatus, so be it.
One of the most inspiring people I come across at the gym will forever be the elderly. I always think, if they can push themselves to come and do their workout, why can't I. I recently saw an elderly women walk into the gym using a cane and put that thing to the side to do her time on the treadmill. I also saw an older gentleman with osteoporosis making the most of his mobility to get his gym session in. So what's my excuse? What's your excuse?
As a fluffy sistren, one thing I've noticed about my continental cousins is: they love to comment on your weight! So come prepared and don't be easily offended. Laugh it off and keep it moving. Or do what I do and comment on their weight lol cuz I'm a bit petty. At the end of the day, it's not that serious so don't let comments like these spoil your mood. A little fluff never hurt nobody and they don't mean it in a malicious way so let it roll off your shoulders.
I'm not saying you need to be an athlete.. nor am I encouraging some unhealthy nonsense where you're in a race to lose the most amount of pounds before your flight. I'm just saying, understand where your health level currently is and make an intentional choice to build from there. Build up your stamina so you don't mess around and pass out while traveling.
I love you and I want to see your soar.
Now let's get these workouts in!
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