Every year, most of us make a New Year’s resolution or two. Many of those resolutions are about our health and fitness. Changes we would like to make to feel better and live healthier lifestyles. Some things are obvious, like eating better and exercise but there are other important lifestyle changes you can make that will get you on the right path in the New Year.
1. Create your own personal fitness area
It doesn’t have to cost you thousands of dollars to set up a fitness area at home. You may not necessarily need or want any fancy equipment. You just need to set up a specific place in your home where you go to exercise. Make sure it’s an open space so you’ll have room to move around. Start simple! Purchase a floor mat, get some adjustable dumbbells or resistance bands. You can add to your equipment as you get fitter.
If you have a TV in your bedroom or in another area of the house, move it to your new gym and exercise while you watch your favourite shows. Or get some mini speakers for your iPod and listen to the songs that remind you of fun times in your life.
2. Go to bed
It might seem obvious, but skipping out on that hour or two of sleep can really affect your productivity and take a toll on your energy levels. Getting seven to eight hours of sleep every night is important for your mind and your body. Do what you can to wind down for the couple of hours before you go to sleep each night.
While exercising is important, you’ll want to avoid working out just before bedtime as well, so you don’t confuse your body into thinking it’s time to be full of energy – when really it’s time to shut down.
3. Calm Down
Stress is a normal part of life, but finding time to de-stress should be part of your everyday health routine.
Exercise will help. Even a short walk, is a good way to clear your mind.
Meditation can be a great way to de-stress. Many people enjoy Yoga for its meditative benefits – but even finding a quiet place and just closing your eyes can be a refresher.
Read a good book, take a soothing bath, or listen to music. Talk with a good friend and get a few good laughs in. When the work day is done, stop thinking about everything that you’ll need to do for the next day and simply relax.
4. Stretch
Stretching is a quick and easy way to reduce tension and build injury-proof your muscles. At the end of each day, sit on the lounge room floor for a few minutes and stretch out your muscles.
5. Keep a Fitness Journal Write down your fitness goals in a journal, diary or online tracking app. Set a list of reasonable goals to start. Record the exercises you do. Even writing down how you feel after exercising can reveal new things that will help you tailor your individual fitness plan.
6. Phone a friend
Support is crucial. Find a workout buddy who is supportive and has similar fitness goals to you. Work out with a friend, child or partner. Encourage each other to stay motivated. It might be as simple as walking around the neighbourhood or grabbing a friend for a short walk during your workday.
The key to lifelong fitness is the daily habits you develop so use these suggestions to build a routine that will make you fitter and healthier in 2012.
