The soft girl lifestyle is having a huge moment right now because more and more people are being more gentle with themselves. With all the years we've been taught that hustling is the *best* way to succeed, we realized that it's okay to take things slow.
This slow-living approach has trickled down to fitness. Post-pandemic, we've embraced low-impact workouts. Collectively called soft girl workouts, these focus on health and well-being rather than fitting a certain clothing size or achieving a number on the scale. Learn more about soft girl workouts below:
What is the soft girl lifestyle?
As we've mentioned earlier, a soft girl aims to slow down. This lifestyle is a response to the hustle culture we grew up with. Not to be confused with "slacking off", the soft girl lifestyle teaches that life should be nurtured and enjoyed, not just something that passes you by. Self-care and mindfulness are priorities. Living in a calm, comfortable living environment is important.
What is a soft girl workout?
Jumping off from the definition of a soft girl, the workout counterpart involves low-impact exercises. Instead of fixating on achieving a certain physique, doing soft girl workouts values enjoyment, comfort, mindfulness, and sustainability over intensity. The goal is not to push oneself to exhaustion.
What Soft Girl Workouts can I try?
Cozy Cardio
TikTok content creator Hope Zuckerbrow introduced the concept of Cozy Cardio. She aimed to help heal how we view exercise. It's a self-care activity, a way of thanking our bodies instead of punishment.
Cozy cardio mainly involves walking on a walking pad or treadmill, while watching your fave show. You can be extra by lighting scented candles to create a warm cozy ambiance.
@hope_zuckerbrow cozy cardio???????? #fyp #cardio #cozy #weightloss #walkingpad ? Blue Moon - Muspace Lofi
Pilates
You'll be pleasantly surprised how toned your body will be after some Pilates sessions. This "gentle" workout challenges even the tiniest muscle in your body. Unlike HIIT workouts that also improve muscle tone, Pilates won't leave you feeling exhausted.
Pilates also offers flexibility (no pun intended), depending on your lifestyle. You can do mat Pilates at home FOR FREE or sign up for a reformer Pilates class.
We are obsessed with Olivia Yang's Pink Pilates Princess aesthetic. She is one of those ultimate soft girls on the internet.
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Jennie Kim swears by Pilates to keep her body fit and toned.
RELATED: This Is How Pilates ~*Changed*~ My Life—And Why You Should Try It Too
12-3-30
The 12-3-30 workout is a popular treadmill routine that started on TikTok. Content creator Lauren Giraldo introduced the trend. The name gives it away: It requires setting the treadmill to incline at 12 percent, the speed at 3, and the length at 30 minutes. This workout claims to improve stamina, cardiovascular health, and lower body strength.
@laurengiraldo Game changer honestly
? original sound - Lauren Giraldo
Walking
Almost all of the workouts in this list involve walking. It is the most doable and sustainable workout on this list. Walking is an underrated exercise. It is a low-effort activity but it has great health benefits. You don't need equipment or fancy sneakers. It can help trim body fat and boost energy, mood, and cognitive function. It also improves overall fitness. (Read Mayo Clinic's report to learn why walking is *the best* workout.)
If you're not a fan of the great outdoors, try this "walking workout" on YouTube.
Shop like a soft girl: fitness edition
Adidas Techfit Printed Leggings, P2,600
This cute workout gear can support your puson and booty, but it doesn't feel constricting.
Adidas Amplimove Trainer Shoes, P3,800
A no-nonsense trainer that makes every step comfy and supported.
KISSME Mommy! UV Aqua Milk, P525
A waterproof and sweatproof sunscreen that can be used by those with sensitive skin (and babies!).
First Aid Beauty Anti-Chafe Stick with Shea Butter + Oatmeal 48g, P1,400
You can prevent your thighs from chafing every time you walk with a few swipes of this moisturizing anti-chafe stick.
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