You have to exercise, that’s just a fact of life. Even in our steamy tropical climate, with its intense sun and the certainty of sweat before you even set foot on the street (or gym). Your body needs it and you know it.
The benefits of exercising
“Depending on your goals, you will achieve the results you choose,” we were told by Angel Perdomo and Rossy Díaz from Asgard Mid. However, it is possible to categorize the benefits of exercise into two groups: physical and psychological.
In terms of physical benefits, there are definite advantages in preventing diseases such as various types of cancer and high blood pressure, which can lead to heart attacks. At the same time, it helps improve the neuronal connections in your brain, which are related to having a better memory. It can also help increase bone and muscle density, and gastrointestinal circulation.
When people talk about the influence of exercise or sport on your psychological well-being, biochemistry often comes up. Stress, anxiety, and depression are all reduced. If you exercise with others, you’ll get a sense of both community and healthy competition, which will make you strive to do better. “If this other person can jump two meters, I can, too,” is an example that Angel gives us. It is also a good way to meet other people and have a social circle with people with similar interests (or, at the very least, one hobby).
We shouldn’t forget that doing exercise is a good way to build our self-discipline, which can then be translated into other aspects of our lives.
It’s not just about being active
Your body and mental health will not get better with exercise alone. To really achieve the best results, it is necessary to combine it with a diet that is adjusted to the amount of exercise, and above all, staying hydrated.
How to exercise in Yucatán + options
As can be expected, each and every city has its own particulars when it comes to exercise. For example, in Yucatán, it doesn’t matter where, you will find high temperatures and high humidity, and the above-mentioned intensely hot sun. Nobody will suggest that you go outside walking or running after 9 am or before 5:30 pm when the sun sets. On the other hand, for indoor exercises, there are many gyms and pilates, dance, and many other discipline studios for your exercise needs.
Are you looking for exercise options in Merida? There are many gyms for weightlifting and machines. Of course, it is wise to look for a place that is conveniently located near you so that the “long” distance doesn’t become an excuse to not go. Schedules and air conditioning are also important considerations. If you are looking for something different, I have friends who adore Top Barre because of the many classes that are offered (yoga, pilates, dance, and weights) featuring a ballet bar. There are various payment packages and trainers so you can personalize what you want. For those who enjoy calisthenics, Sthenos Mx offers a Monday – Saturday membership.
Personally, spinning is my favorite form of exercise. If it is also yours (or you’re looking to explore), I recommend Rodé Cycle, La Strada (which also has other exercise options), and Bicyclo. Do you want a more personalized exercise plan? Check out Asgard Mid, where they are more focused on health, performance, and helping people achieve their goals, which adds up to more personalized training (and at home!)
Now, if what you’re looking for are outdoor activities, Yucatán has plenty of those too. Besides skating and biking, there are hiking groups, running, and mountain or off-road bike riding groups that regularly organize outings online so they can get together.
Here is a list of some contacts that you should find helpful:
Asgard Mid
FB: asgardmid
Bicyclo
www.bicyclo.mx
FB: Bicyclo
La Strada
FB: La Strada
Rodé Cycle
www.rodecycle.com
IG: rodecycle
Sthenos Mx
FB: Sthenos Mx
Top Barre
www.topbarre.com.mx
FB: Top Barre
MTB Mérida
FB: MTB MERIDA
Senderismo Yucatán
FB: Senderismo Yucatán
Runners Team Mérida RTM
FB: Runners Team Mérida RTM
Editorial by Olivia Camarena Cervera
Yucatecan communicologist. Your favorite Assistant Editor. Writer, blogger, and bookstagrammer in her spare time. She also experiments with TikTok.
Photography by Rodé Cycle, Sthenos, and Asgard Mid for use in Yucatán Today.
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