Got health and fitness goals? It’s the time of year for new aspirations and motivations. For many of us, that includes plans for living healthily. Just because Colorado is known for its healthy lifestyle doesn’t mean that everyone is at their peak. But it does mean our climate, environment and social circles can make it easier to find connections and opportunities to build healthy habits into our everyday lives. If you’re needing a little local inspiration, here is our list of ideas to jumpstart your health goals.
Many of these activities are free. Some can be built into daily habits; others probably work best as part of a longer-term routine. (We see and envy you, pro athletes, with your daily massage therapy.) The goal is to make them work for you.
If you’re wanting to build a habit around them, know that process will be different for everyone. The old adage that is takes three weeks to build a habit? Turns out that’s not really a thing, as Scientific American discusses in this interesting article “How Long Does It Really Take to Form a Habit?”
So choose an activity you enjoy and get out there. Enjoyment is a big factor in turning routines into habits that happen automatically, according to another helpful article “What Does It Really Take to Build a New Habit?” from the Harvard Business Review.
Of course, it’s always best to check with your doctor before beginning a new exercise plan, especially if you have any health concerns. But based on general health recommendations, there’s a good chance that building some of these Colorado Springs activities into your regular schedule can help improve your healthy lifestyle.
Here’s our list of 10 Ways to Live Healthier in Colorado Springs.
1. Go for a Hike
Nature is medicine for our physical, mental and emotional health, and Colorado Springs is home to hundreds of trails all over and around the city. Taking a walk outside can shift your perspective. Here are our Top 10 trail networks to explore if you need ideas to get started.
2. Set a Goal
Want some accountability and motivation to keep those fitness goals? Register now for a race, ride or event. It’s a commitment to putting in the training and testing your limits in a new way. You can find a full bucket list to choose from in our Epic Runs and Rides.
3. Hit the Gym
Having a place to go work out can help to form an exercise routine. You can also get guidance and accountability from a personal trainer at a gym or fitness center. If you’re wondering where to start, check out our guide to gyms and family fitness centers.
4. Climb the Incline
The Manitou Incline is a unique local treasure. With 2,744 stairs straight up a mountainside, it’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s an excellent training challenge if you’re prepared.
5. Get Centered with Yoga
Align your body, mind and breath with yoga. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced yogi, there’s a class for you in these top yoga studios in the Springs.
6. Rock Climb Higher
Want a fun, full body workout with Colorado style? Send new routes at a local rock climbing gym and find a community of likeminded people who can show you the ropes, literally.
7. Relax at a Spa
Rest and recovery are important. Find your bliss with a massage, facial or soothing treatment of choice. Our guide to the best spas in Colorado Springs can help you choose your favorite spot.
8. Take an Alcohol Break
There’s been a lot of recent news about the benefits of lowering alcohol consumption. If you’re sober curious, we explored some excellent cocktail alternatives in Drink Zero Proof.
9. Soak Away Some Stress
Channel your inner Scandinavian and tap into the health benefits of the sauna. Here are the 15 Hot Springs Closest to Colorado Springs where you can soak away your stress.
10. Get Social
According to the Centers for Disease Control, “social connections can lead to longer life, better health, and well-being.” Want to find your people in Colorado Springs, here’s a list of clubs, groups and meetups to get you started.
