Just because your New Year’s resolutions have faltered, or it is not the “beginning” of a season or time of year, doesn’t mean you can’t take on some new fitness or activity goals. In fact, spring is the perfect time to try new activities because the weather is so nice outdoors. Fitness centers are also experiencing a lull in new memberships and attendance (again, due to all the New Year’s Resolution drop-outs!) so they are offering some great deals right now as well.
Here are some ideas for how to get fit and active in Spring and The Woodlands areas right now – whether on your own or in a motivating group setting.
• Walking, hiking, and running. Nothing is easier than lacing up a pair of sneakers and hitting the sidewalk or trail. The Woodlands and Spring have so many options of great places to take a walk that you’re sure to find something close to home.
o Montgomery County Preserve has 71 acres of forest and wetlands with multiple trails. Look for box turtles, American Beautyberry plants, and blue birds along the way. http://www.bayoulandconservancy.org/montgomery-county-preserve
o Spring Trails Preserve has well-maintained trails and lots of beautiful nature to encounter as you hike. http://www.springcreekgreenway.org/peckinpaugh.htm
o Looking for a group to help motivate you? Try a run with The Woodlands Running Club (http://thewoodlandsrunningclub.org/) or Goose’s Acre Running Club (http://www.thegoosesacre.com/run-the-woodlands/) – they enjoy a free buffet and drink specials after each 5K!
For most people, setting a goal helps with motivation to work out regularly and eat healthier. Registering for an event, whether a 5K, half-marathon, or even a triathlon is something that is achievable if you put your mind to it. No prior experience is necessary and just the fact that you can say you completed the race is a major accomplishment.
• The Woodlands is home to many race events throughout the year. Here are a few upcoming events that you still have time to register and train for!
o Sprint Triathlon (swim, bike, and run but in shorter distances than a “regular” triathlon) on July 9 http://www.active.com/montgomery-tx/triathlon/races/texas-star-tri-2017?int=72-3-A8
Still scared? Try a tri clinic first on April 29 at The Woodlands Rec Center http://www.active.com/the-woodlands-tx/triathlon/clinics/triathlon-first-timer-s-clinic-2017?int=72-3-A6
o Don’t like to swim? Try a duathlon – run, bike, run some more – at the XTERRA Magnolia Hill event July 15 http://www.active.com/navasota-tx/duathlon/races/xterra-magnolia-hill-off-road-triathlon-and-duathlon-2017?int=72-3-A9
For more event information in The Woodlands and surrounding areas, visit http://www.active.com/houston-tx/