Melissa captures dawn to midday while participating in Wadi Bih in Dibba, Oman
This morning, I met my friend Melissa for our fourth 5am cardio session in my tower’s gym. We completed our second week of Mornings with Melissas, an attempt to replace and rekindle our former Abu Dhabi Education Council carpool. While living in the same building and teaching on the same high school campus, she drove us to and from work allowing ample opportunity to wind up and wind down during our 40-minute commute.
I suspect Melissa initiated our sessions to make up for lost time and time to be lost – sadly, this is my last column since I’ll be leaving the country in April – but perhaps, more importantly, she enlisted a partner for scheduled physical activity at the beginning of the day. Camaraderie, weight loss, mental clarity and a renewed sense of purpose for the coming day are simply by-products of our time spent sweating side by side.
So, even if you’re only inclined toward yoga, Tai Chi or basic calisthenics – understandable given the pre-dawn hours – at least you’re setting intention for a productive day. You will spike your metabolism, work up an appetite and likely choose healthier options for breakfast. I’m guessing, with consistency, you’ll also increase time spent on the mat or in the gym and begin scheduling additional time during lunch or after work challenging your fitness.
Based on attending a “Being Superhuman” fitness seminar in Dubai recently, Ben Greenfield, a fat loss coach, nutritionist and Ironman Triathlete, said our greatest cardiovascular efficiency and muscular strength peaks between 4-6 pm. However, if you can’t fit in a session within those hours or twice daily, then commit to starting your day strong. Just start.
Jimmy Pena, an exercise physiologist, bestselling author and founder of PrayFit says, “After writing countless articles on health and fitness…and even after co-authoring six health and fitness best sellers, I can say with certainty that the most effective form of exercise is whatever you’ll actually do.” So, no matter what time or activity you choose, developing a practice will enhance calorie burn and ultimately, impact the quality of your daily life.
Now before you set your alarm, set your intent (think yoga here) and contemplate gratitude. While running the rugged, mountainous terrain for Wadi Bih in Dibba, Oman in February, I counted my kilometers and my blessings. Grateful for each moment on the treadmill and pumping iron in the gym – each moment leading up to the race – I used positive energy (perhaps, it was adrenaline but I milked it) to maneuver the winding, rocky desert roads and bypass negative thoughts about what some would consider a grind. By eliciting appreciation for time well spent, I spent my time well.
by Melissa Lowry
