The New Year is quickly approaching and its time to put your resolution to get healthy into action. So, where to begin….
Choosing a form of exercise that you enjoy will help you stick to your plan. Also, be realistic when setting up your exercise schedule. If it doesn’t fit into your lifestyle there is little chance you will be able to maintain over a period of time.
Remember the 80-20 rule when it comes to how to eat healthy. Maintaining healthy weight loss should be 80% diet and 20% exercise. If you take a zumba class you can burn up to 700 calories, which can be quickly cancelled out if you choose an unhealthy food option.
Plan meals ahead and stock the fridge with healthy snacks. Keeping cut up vegetables in single serving size bags will help you to choose wisely when you are looking for a snack or grabbing something quick on the go. Packing your lunch for work will also help you avoid take out or fast food when those mid day hunger pains set in.
Drink plenty of water! Not only is water essential to good health it gives you a sense of feeling full. To ensure you are drinking the recommended eight 8oz glasses each day, keep a water bottle with you at all times and sip on it through out the day.
Avoid high calorie drinks. Did you know that a single serving of cola can contain 150 calories? If you drink several glasses of soda a day that can really add up. Making a small change to eliminate pop from your diet can result in significant daily calorie reduction.
Set a time in the evening to stop eating and stick to it. For some, late night snacking can add anywhere from 300-500 calories when most aren’t even hungry.
Get your rest. Getting a good nights rest will keep you feeling motivated throughout the day resulting in better energy for your workout and better recovery from your workout.
Be patient – breaking old habits and developing new ones takes time. Determination today leads to success tomorrow.
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Nancy Gildersleeve has been a fitness professional for over 17 years. She holds many group exercise certifications as well as personal training and pilates. Additionally she has worked as an examiner for the Aerobic and Fitness Association of America. Nancy is an avid runner and completed her first marathon in October 2011. She is the Associate Executive Director of our Schenectady branch and serves as the Health & Wellness Product Group leader for the Capital District YMCA.