Going on hardcore adventures is not for the faint of heart. You need to train yourself to be more flexible and hardy. Otherwise, you could get stuck in a situation where your physical and mental health is at risk. Physical performance can be improved with the help of steroids. Some people rely on supplements and protein powders to get their steroid fix. However, there’s a more natural way you can achieve the same results.
The body produces steroids naturally such as the testosterone hormone that helps with muscle development and other bodily functions. It also produces a hormone called cortisol, often referred to as the “stress” hormone. Cortisol increases glucose production in the liver, providing the body with appropriate levels of energy. It elevates body performance by improving the distribution of oxygen and other nutrients to different muscles and organs in the body when it’s under a lot of stress.
When it comes to strength development and fitness, the secret is knowing how to effectively manipulate your body’s hormone production and usage. Besides knowing how to effectively use your body’s natural supply of steroids, there are other things you can do to prepare and strengthen yourself before an adventure. Before you embark on your next adventure, make sure to prepare your body and your mind for the challenges that it may face.
Here’s a list of tried and tested tips you should consider:
Tip 1: Create a Workout Schedule
The last few weeks leading up to your trip will likely be filled with packing and finalizing documents. Thus, it can be easy to leave your physical health on the back burner. Unfortunately, this puts you at risk of injury and illness, as your body’s strength and immunity can decrease the longer you go without exercising.
This phenomenon is referred to as “detraining,” wherein you lose the beneficial effects of exercise the longer you avoid your usual routine. This results in reduced physical fitness and strength.
Even if it’s just a couple of minutes in the gym, a round of exercise is better than nothing at all. Treat your workouts like any other task on your schedule. Set a specific time for it and remember to mark it on your calendar. That way you’ll have no reason to skip your exercise routines.
Tip 2: Exercise on Your Trip
Traveling and adventuring are physically demanding. You want to get in as much strength training in between, to keep up your energy levels during your trip. When you’re not hiking or scaling the sides of mountains and hills, try and find time to workout in your hotel room or wherever you’re staying during your trip.
You don’t need fancy equipment to do this—just some simple body-weight exercises that you can finish in 30 to 45 minutes or less. There are plenty of free exercise programs that you can find and follow online. You can see more of them on Total Shape’s blogs, and healthy meal plans that you can pair with your workouts for better results.
As always, before you start an exercise routine, make sure to contact your physician and confirm that it’s the right exercise routine for you. After all, each person’s body responds differently to various types of physical activity. Avoid injury by getting a professional’s approval beforehand.
Tip 3: Set Aside Time for Meditation
Meditation is more than just a relaxation practice. It can also help strengthen the body and the mind. If you’re stressed or feeling overwhelmed in certain situations, meditation can help you refocus your thoughts and ease whatever tension you’re feeling. Beyond that, meditation can also help improve blood circulation in the brain and organs.
Exercising your brain via meditation can help reduce stress just as much as exercise. Meditation is shown to reduce the release of the stress hormone cortisol by engaging the parasympathetic nervous system. Controlling cortisol levels is critical for the body to operate effectively during workouts and recuperation.
Tip 4: Eat a Balanced Diet
There’s only so much exercise can do for your health and fitness. If you want to achieve better results, eating a balanced diet is essential.
Vegetables, fruits, seeds, nuts, and legumes are high in nutrients and antioxidants, which may protect you against illness-causing bacteria and germs. The antioxidants found in these food groups may also help you combat inflammation caused by free radicals. Inflammation is the leading cause for chronic illnesses like Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and heart disease—as well as certain cancers.
Plant foods contain fibers that support your gut microbiome, your gut microbiome, which is a collection of good bacteria in your digestive tract. Healthy gut microbiota can boost your immunity and prevent germs from entering your body through your digestive system.
Tip 5: Get Enough Sleep
Studies show that good sleep can improve muscle strength as opposed to getting less sleep. When you’re excited to go on a long adventure, sleep is often the last thing on your mind. However, foregoing adequate and restful sleep can make you more vulnerable to illnesses like the common cold and flu.
Getting at least 8 hours of sleep each night is essential for optimum performance and health. If you struggle to fall asleep at night, here are a few things you can try:
- Avoid bringing gadgets such as mobile phones and tablets into the bedroom
- Make sure your room is dark and cool
- Take a shower before going to bed
- Wear an eye mask if you can’t darken your room completely
If you have a sleeping disorder, talk to your physician about techniques you can use to help you get better sleep at night.
Final Thoughts
Adventures can give a person meaning and purpose in life. Despite the excitement you feel, keep in mind that your safety and health should always be your priority. Before embarking on that quest of a lifetime, ensure your body and mind are ready to face the trials ahead. Get plenty of sleep and exercise; furthermore, don’t forget to fuel your workouts with healthy and filling food.
Good luck on your next adventure!
We are not doctors and this is in no way intended to be used as medical advice and we cannot be held responsible for your results. As with any product, service or supplement, use at your own risk. Always do your own research before using.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.