My weight loss journey took a hit, but playing badminton kick-started it again

Although the lockdown has opened up, I have still been working from home, and trust me, it’s way too boring. Following the same routine every single day feels so mundane; there’s no fun in life! 

In fact, my workout routine had also become pretty run-of-the-mill, and for a fitness fanatic like me, it was hard to understand why my weight loss game hit a plateau. Moreover, I was someone who was always enthusiastic about working out, but I saw myself turn into a “let’s sleep for 5 more minutes” type, and that got me wondering what really happened!

I also realised that stagnation was one of the biggest reasons. Well, this was bound to happen because I’ve been following the same old routine for six months, due to lack of equipment. But as my birthday is round the corner, I decided to shake up my exercise routine, and start playing a sport! 

Bingo, what an idea! And guess what? I decided to go for badminton, maybe because that’s the only sport I know, but I am glad I made this choice. Oh and also, it fulfils social distancing (haha, that’s very important). 

Just like an excited kid, I got myself a pair of rackets and corks, and got up the next morning to kick-start this new routine. The first day was a little tough, I experienced a little soreness in my body, but it only got better from there. 

So, let me share how badminton helped me:

1. I lost weight, 2 kilos to be precise
As I mentioned earlier, my weight loss had hit the pause button, and I was worried. But playing badminton helped me to lose 2 kilos in 20-25 days. I know it’s not a big number, but it got my motivation back for sure. And you know why I am even more ecstatic? That’s because my arms have become leaner, FINALLY!

2. I don’t have to do boring cardio anymore
Good riddance from that cardio session, and the credit goes to my husband, who ensures that I run to almost every corner of the court to hit the shuttlecock. And boy, that makes me sweat like a pig.

The best part is right after that, I can begin my strength training exercises. Let me tell you, only an hour-long session is enough to burn calories, and you don’t have to do any more cardio training after that! But yeah, I did my post-workout stretches after a good badminton sesh.

3. I felt more energetic after playing badminton
I think it was because I had a lot of fun, and it was my competitive streak that took this game to a whole new level. That’s why I didn’t feel the lethargy I would experience otherwise. Plus, I felt a sense of calm, something that was missing earlier. It acted like a great stressbuster for me, and today, almost 75% of my workout regime is devoted to badminton.

It’s fun on the run for me, and who can forget the complementary weight loss? So, if you want to shake up your mundane exercise routine just like me, go for a sport. You won’t regret it!