Resolve to get healthy……Another year has arrived and many of us are still trying to dig our way out from the holiday rubble and wondering how much damage we might have done to our bodies as we feasted our way through party to party while our workout schedules were disrupted or maybe forgotten.
The good news? Resolving to make a positive change in health and fitness has never been easier. Even just exercising 2 times a week can yield measurable results if done the right way. But becoming healthier requires that we make small changes in other areas of our lives too- in what we eat and our attitudes. So here are just a few tips on how to make this New year the best one yet for your body, inside and out.
- Choose any life change with a solution based mind-set…… choose a plan that is convenient and you will be more likely to succeed.
- If you are ready to commit and make this resolution, diet will be key. Choose good sources of lean protein. Stock up on good complex carbohydrates. Avoid anything with refined white flour and sugar. Remember that fats help satiate hunger. Rely on the good fats (extra virgin olive oil, nuts)
- Make yourself a priority and don’t feel guilty about it. You cannot care for others if you don’t care for yourself.
- If you want to improve your fitness level and stay in shape long term, you have to build lean muscle. Lean muscle burns more calories and revs up your metabolism even when your body is at rest.
- Schedule your workouts like any other important item on your to-do list. People who do not have a plan -fail! Commit to it and really make that time important for you because it’s where and how you are going to transform your life.
- Most importantly-REMEMBER TO START SMALL! Break your goals down into small chunks to ensure success. The journey of a thousand miles begins with one single step. Select an activity that you enjoy. Do 5 minutes of it for 4 days. Do this for a week. If successful, then add more days or add more minutes. Repeat this until you are exercising 5 days a week for 30 minutes a day.
- As for diet….. again start small. Eat more fruits and vegetables. Add a fruit or veggie to one meal or snack 5 days a week. Do this for a week. If successful, add more days or another fruit or veggie the following week. Repeat this until you til you are eating at least 5 a day.
- Now get a calendar and display it. Check off each day you are successful. Wishing everyone the happiest and healthiest New Year.
Yours In Health,
Patti Sciulli, CWI Board Member