Love the Way You Move

By now, most of us know that moving our bodies comes with a long list of benefits, from boosting our mood to improving our physical health.

But what’s not always clear is how we should be moving. The health and wellness world can be overwhelming, filled with conflicting advice and rigid routines. From 7-minute quick-fixes to influencers clocking two-hour gym sessions, and not to mention trying to balance strength, cardio, speed and agility, flexibility... it's no wonder many of us feel stuck before we even start.

I believe that part of the confusion comes from how we define movement in the first place. It doesn't have to be hitting the gym or a formal workout, movement can be anything that gets your body in motion- an activity that gets the blood flowing.

Depending on your goals, the movement you want to be doing can look very different, but from a general wellness perspective what matters most is simply that you’re moving and that it feels good for your mind, body, and spirit.

Because here’s the truth: If you're doing a routine you hate, or one that doesn't fit into your life, you're not going to stick with it. Period.

Since I was a teenager, I’ve always wanted to be a runner. I grew up watching movies and shows with those effortlessly cool girls running through Central Park or down some scenic trail and I wanted that girl to be me. I wanted to be the “main character” out for a run, headphones in, wind in my hair. I’d heard of the runner’s high and wanted to experience it so badly! So, I tried.... I tried treadmills, running apps, guided programs, new sneakers and workout gear and I gave it all a shot, even as recently as last year. But the truth is, I don't like running. It’s just not for me. And you know what? That’s okay. Because there are so many other ways to move and I’ve discovered plenty that I do enjoy. That's not to say that you won't see me at some point in my life trying to get into running again, or going for an occasional run, but it doesn't need to be "my thing" right now.

That’s what this post is about, helping you explore different ways to move your body and get it moving in a way that lights you up, not wears you down. Movement should be joyful, energizing, and sustainable. It’s about fueling your body, showing it care, and celebrating all that it can do, not punishing it.

We only get one body in this life. Let’s treat it with love.

Here are just a few of the many ways you can get moving, some traditional, some unexpected. The goal? To help you find something that excites you, nourishes you, and fits into your life.

Dance:

• Ballroom Dancing

• Salsa

• Zumba®

• Pole Dancing

• Belly Dancing

• Tap Dancing

• Dance Parties in Your Living Room

• Square Dancing

• Dancing at the Club (are clubs still a thing?)

• Dance Fitness Apps like The Fitness Marshall

Sports & Games: Beyond the usual team sports, try:

• Disc Golf

• Dodgeball

• KanJam in the backyard

• Bocce Ball

• Bowling

• Karate

• Pickleball

• Ultimate Frisbee

• Kickboxing

• Hula Hooping

• Rollerblading

• Laser Tag

• Jump Roping

• And hey—if you do love running, go for it!

  
  

Nature Activities:

• Surfing

• Hiking

• Skiing

• Snowshoeing

• Swimming

• Walking Clubs

• Kayaking

• Rock Climbing (They even have indoor facilities for this)

  
  

Group Fitness Classes:

• Yoga (Vinyasa, Restorative, Power—so many styles!)

• Pilates

• HIIT Classes

• Cardio Drumming

• Step Aerobics (yes, it’s back!)

• TRX Suspension Training

• Water Aerobics

• Bootcamp

• Indoor Cycling

And an old person favorite, Horseback Riding. At one point in my life, horseback riding brought me so much joy and really helped me through a lot of hard times.

Of course, it’s not for everyone, but when I did it regularly (20+ years ago!), I felt strong, connected, and at peace. It was a full-body experience and that’s the power of finding what works for you. I'll have to 'get back on the horse' someday and see if I still got it.

At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter how you’re moving—what matters is that you’re doing it in a way that honors your body and feels right for you. Don’t be afraid to try new things, mix it up, or even circle back to old hobbies. Many of these activities also offer hidden perks like learning new skills, connecting with others, and boosting your mental health.

You can even do many of them at home or virtually, so there’s truly something for everyone.

Let's keep the list growing, what’s your favorite way to move? Did I leave anything off the list? I’d love to hear what lights you up.