Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - One of the many things I love about Puerto Vallarta is that it provides me with 365 days of great ‘work out’ weather! Eating is one of my favorite past times so it's imperative that I keep a consistent, exercise regime. However, lately I’ve been doing more eating than exercise and when you're in your forties, there's no mercy for slacking off! It’s time for me to get back into action!
There are many gyms to choose from in Puerto Vallarta but there are also many things you can do outdoors. My winter workout consists of power walking, hiking and climbing the stairs at Los Muertos Beach. I would like to eventually add paddle boarding to my regime as I hear it does wonders for your core.
So what does one do for exercise during our summer months? Staying in shape in the heat and humidity can be quite challenging and requires you to get up and out early. If you were to go by Puerto Vallarta’s Municipal Stadium Sport Complex around 6 am, you will find a track busy with people running or walking. The stadium is actually quite a great resource for exercise if you're on a tight budget. They offer early morning aerobics classes and box training at a very low cost.
Swimming is another great form of exercise. I especially like it because it's one of the best ways to achieve a full body workout without all the sweating! If you don’t have a pool, the ocean is just as good for doing laps since the water is warm and usually quite calm in the summer mornings.
Speaking of oceans, Puerto Vallarta will be hosting some of the Pan American Game competitions this year which includes the Men's and Women's Triathlon. On Oct. 23, 2011, 70 athletes will be gathering at the Terminal Marina area to start the swimming portion of the race. Something you surely don’t want to miss!
Another great alternative to early morning power walks and swimming is yoga. Puerto Vallarta has become a Mecca for yoga enthusiasts with some of the best yoga instructors and yoga studios found right here in our beautiful paradise.
One example is Alma Aguilar, owner and operator of Yoga Vallarta. I purchased a one month pass and after only three classes I was already feeling the difference in my body and soul. There are so many aspects of yoga that I'm enjoying and one, which really stands out for me, is the breathing part. We often forget to breathe when running around in our busy lives, so taking some time out to do this can really make a difference in your day. Breathing helps keep you grounded.
I’m really excited about my new found passion and look forward to achieving some incredible Yogi poses. When was the last time you did a headstand?
Whatever form of exercise you choose, there is no time like the present to begin.
Sylvie Scopazzo is the owner of Tours du Jour, a travel company dedicated to meeting the needs of the everyday traveller who seeks the warmth of Mexico during the winter months. Based in Puerto Vallarta, Tours du Jour is committed to providing the best service possible, whether one is travelling by motor home, boat or arriving by air. For more information, visit ToursDuJourMexico.com.