Spring is officially here! St. Louis has experienced some great weather over the past few days. For many people, this is what motivates them to workout. Let's get a jumpstart on your health and weight loss goals. Winter months have been the cause of many unwanted pounds and inactivity. It's not too late to reverse the effects of cabin fever. Create a game plan and follow it:
- Start food journaling- This helps with accountability. Similar to a bank statement, food journals give you a history of your eating habits over a specific period of time. At the end of each week, assess your progress and set new goals to improve your nutrition.
- Join a fitness center- The average American goes their entire life trying to lose weight. The reality is that most can't accomplish successful weight loss without the help of a professional. Find a facility near you, and make an appointment. When a car is breaking down, we seek help from a mechanic. When a tooth aches, we seek help from a dentist. When a house shows signs of damage, we seek help from a contractor. Why are we not seeking help for our bodies? The fitness professional is there to prevent and/or reverse the effects of weight gain and poor diet. If everyone had the ability and knowledge to lose weight properly, we wouldn't be in an obesity epidemic. What is your health worth to you? The average gym membership is $15-$45/mo. The average cost of personal training can range from $50-$100/hr. The average consumer spends $100-$160/mo on fastfood, junkfood etc. When we stop investing in poor habits, we are able to invest in getting healthy.
- Go shopping- Being prepared for a workout means investing in the perfect shoe. Support and durability are important to a successful workout or jog on the treadmill. Workout attire can also increase productivity. Being comfortable and confident creates less distraction. Are your pants too tight? Is your shirt too big? These minor mishaps can discourage a new gym member from being active. Find a comfortable top that allows you to move with ease. Find pants/shorts that do not interfere with your goal. Make sure you can complete exercises with success. Breathable fabrics also help get you through a workout without feeling drained. Wear what makes you feel good, and most importantly keeps you moving.
- Crank up the noise- Find some great upbeat tunes to add to your mp3/i-pod. Music gets your heart rate going, and creates a distraction from your redundant routine. It can also serve as a timer. Set a goal of walking/jogging the treadmill for 5 songs. You'll be done before you know it, and off to the next exercise. Remember, working out can be fun and enjoyable.
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Ready, Set, ..... GO!!!!
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