There is no right or wrong way to exercise. Some people love to go to the gym. Some love to run, while others think that walking to the freezer for ice cream on a commercial break is enough. I’m going to let you know a little secret no one, not even trainers, love to spend hours upon hours a day exercising. Now here is a doozie, we all get bored!! The secret to getting and staying is shape is simple. You have to move! You have to get off the couch, away from the computer and do something, anything.
Now all the moving and sweating will be for nothing if you don't take a serious hard look at your food intake and choices. Each little bite can add up to major calorie intake. Major changes don't have to happen over night, but they do have to happen. Healthy eating and exercise go hand in hand.
There are lots of different forms of exercise from dancing to Tia Chi. Everything from weight lifting to power walking. You need to find what you like to do and do it! Mix it up. Try something new. And don’t be afraid to be silly and move like a kid. Some of the best workouts I’ve had have been when I cranked the stereo and just moved. I didn’t try to “exercise’ I just did what felt fun and got me breathing hard and my muscles burning. Then I would calm down for a few minutes and do it all over again.
Here are some guidelines to help you make the lifestyle change necessary.
You have to want it. Getting fit and healthy is a decision only you can make and it has to be for you and no one else. The first step is to be honest with yourself about your weight, body image, and goals.
Set yourself up for success. Clean out the pantry, enlist support from your family, and make realistic goals. Don't expect everything to happen over night. Success takes time, commitment, and dedication.
Educate yourself on fitness options. There are lots of ways to be active. Think about things you enjoy both now and in the past. It's an easy place to begin. Also, don't be afraid to try new things. You never know what you will like.
Be honest about your food. A food diary will be your best friend. You may not really know how much and of what you are eating. Take time to wean yourself off of bad foods; while introducing new healthy foods one at a time. Baby steps will make changing your eating habits easier to become accustomed to. Be willing to try new things.
Have Fun!! This is your life- enjoy it.