I don’t know about you, but I indulged this holiday. This year had its stresses and challenges, and well, I guess I just took a break and didn’t worry about what I ate. The New Year is around the corner, and it is time to get fit so we can live our life to the fullest! We are only as successful as our health. Our physical condition either helps us reach our goals or prevents us from our full potential. It is up to you because no one can do it for you.
The good news is that very small adjustments can make a big difference! Some people go cold turkey and get super strict to get back on the right health path. However, most of us do better with small steps and incremental changes. Here’s what I suggest: Good, Better and Best choices. You see, we are all in different places when it comes to nutrition and exercise. Those who are just beginning to watch what they eat will look for “good” alternatives while others who are doing okay but want to improve their eating habits might shoot for “best” or even completely avoiding some foods.
For instance, if you never, ever eat fruit, a place to start is canned fruit. Better would be frozen fruit, and best would be fresh fruit. When ready, avoid ALL processed sugars. Another example would be if you are used to getting fast food. Start by switching to chicken option with the next step being turkey and best being vegetarian/meatless. Avoid all processed grains/flours. For all of us, try to limit your salt intake, increase your water, get plenty of rest and avoid fried foods.
As far as exercise goes, movement is the key! For sedentary people just staring off, walking is a great option but power walking is better with jogging the best way to burn some calories. Eventually, you will increase your intensity, regardless of the exercise. And don’t forget resistance training. Exercise bands are a great place to start!
Please don’t forget to understand what exercise works best for you. My book, Finally FIT: Customize Fitness to Your Personality Type has an exclusive assessment to help you figure out your Fitness Individuality Trait and then gives suggestions on how you should be exercising to get the results you seek.
I’m going to vlog tomorrow on the importance of knowing your “why” because without it, you will fail. Setting health goals is great, but you need something the drives you on those tough days. If being a size 2 was enough of a motivator, we’d all be a size 2. No, it has to be something significant and meaningful to you. Catch my vlog tomorrow for more on that!
In the meantime, your body is your most prized possession. Your investments in your health are never waste and WILL reap great rewards. Here’s to a healthy and happy you in the new year!
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