Small Changes That Lead To Fitness

If you’re out of shape, starting a full blown exercise program may sound overwhelming. In fact, some people who are grossly obese or weak after a prolonged illness may not be able to safely do it. For those people, taking it one step at a time, but doing it on a regular basis is the route to take. Just walking a few minutes and gradually increasing the walks as fitness improves helps their body make the adjustments safely. No matter where you start on the road to fitness, remember making small changes all add up to a healthier lifestyle.

It all starts with taking the first step.

Do you want to run several miles, but can’t run to the end of the driveway, don’t give up! No matter what your goal, whether it’s fitness or otherwise, you have to start somewhere. The key is just to start. Find something you enjoy doing that’s active and do more of it. Make an effort to be more active. Do ten minute sessions three times a day to get in your half hour of exercise. Look for ways to boost your activity, whether it’s taking the stairs, walking more or doing exercises during commercials, it all counts.

Is your diet a disaster? Make changes.

You don’t have to go on a “diet.” Diets don’t work. Just eating healthier is the route to go. Start by eliminating foods with added sugar. That’s the hardest step, but you can make it easier. Pack your refrigerator with healthy snacks, like cut up fruit, ready to eat vegetables and even some healthy dip. Package small snack size bags with raw nuts and seeds. Take advantage of in-season fresh fruits and vegetables and have them ready to eat. If you opt for citrus fruit, such as grapefruit, section it first so it’s ready to eat and chilling in the refrigerator.

Use a tendency to procrastinate to your advantage.

Do you put off exercising? You’re a great candidate for using procrastination to your advantage. If you have a bad habit, such as smoking, why not use that procrastinating talent to your advantage? Before you light up, put it off for a while and a turn your attention toward doing something else. Maybe even switch out that smoke for a few jumping jacks or a plank. Make it a rule that you have to do some type of exercise before you smoke any cigarette, even if it’s pacing around the room. You’ll either slow your habit or get into great shape!

• Plain Greek yogurt with added chopped black cherries, broken walnuts and even wheat germ, make a great treat you can use as a dessert or snack.
• Increase your water intake. Drink a glass of water when you’re hungry. Sometimes, it’s all you need to be satisfied. If you aren’t a water drinker, try infusing it with fruit, which gives it flavor without a lot of extra calories.
• Learn a breathing technique or meditation to help get you through stressful times. As you practice and improve, you’ll be able to lower your stress quickly.
• Start controlling your sleep. Set a bedtime and wake-up time, creating a sleep schedule. Eliminate detractors, such as TV, lights or a computer.

For more information, contact us today at Jari Love