NiaDivas

Thought provoking article on the benefits of going barefoot and/or adopting footwear that simulates the barefoot experience. Anecdotal evidence mixes with scientific study in this article. One of the keys is learning how to walk in a manner consistent with Nia move #1 - the heel lead. You'll get more info on why by reading the article. There is even mention of the Alexander Technique in the text!

The author does a good job of pointing out that switching to barefoot may not go smoothly at first as the body initially continues to pursue bad habits developed from years of wearing shoes. It can take time to develop ones barefoot 'sensory IQ' and learn to remember to do the 'heel lead'.

NPR glossed this article. Read their take on it. and while you're there, you can also listen to an interview with the author.

Compare these recommendations to similar recommendations advanced by the Nia Technique. Awareness and 'listening' to the body are key elements of each recommendation.

Avoiding activity related injuries is a key determinate for how long most people will stick with a particular fitness program and how much they will enjoy it in the meantime.

From their very beginning, Nia movements have been designed to harmonize with the "Body's Way" and to give rise to enjoyable feelings - not injury. When practiced with awareness, as taught by the Nia Technique, we have the tools become our own "conscious personal trainer". Once we reach that point, our well-being and fitness rests in our own hands.

A key question brought up about exercise in that page is:

"How do I stick with it?"

Some suggested answers from the medical professions include: Choose something you like to do, Vary your routine, Forget "no pain, no gain" and Make exercise fun.

These are all core concepts of The Nia Technique, and have been since Nia was founded in the 1980's. Nia was one of the first fitness disciplines to diverge from the "no pain, no gain" mentality that was prevalent in the '80s. The potential for long-term sustainability is one of the many attractive features of the Nia Technique. If you're looking for a fitness program with staying power, try Nia.

This recent article reminds us that, in January, there is a lot of zeal for getting back into exercise and regaining fitness. However, that zeal often lacks staying power.

"Sadly, most people become frustrated and quit exercising before they see any real results. But it's not surprising given the common mistakes many people make with their training programs. Are you making these workout mistakes?" - Elizabeth Quinn

Nia is a great choice to help avoid many of these common exercise pitfalls. Nia routines are designed to give a whole body workout. Fresh routines are introduced on a regular basis to keep things interesting and to insure a fully diversified workout. Attending a Nia class is a good way to avoid the mistake of pursuing a haphazard approach to working out and provides access to a Nia instructor who can help with proper form and technique.

But, perhaps the best contribution that Nia made to the fitness scene was redirecting the focus from objective measurements, like body weight and muscle size, to the subjective experience of how to enhance the way a workout makes us feel. Finding satisfaction in the feelings that come from a good workout naturally dispells workout frustrations - no matter what the scale, tape or mirror may indicate - and makes it more likely you'll find time for it and still be working out come December.

If your current exercise program isn't doing it for you, give Nia a try and experience the Nia difference for yourself.