Most of us are aware of how healthy we are and while some of us achieve good health through looking after ourselves, many of us sometimes lack the motivation and confidence to stay focused when it comes to a specific goal or even a general lifestyle change. Often when summer is coming around, we feel the enthusiasm to lose weight and get fit and healthy, because we want to look good in the summer months. Many people start healthy regimes as a New Year’s resolution in January – which can be a somewhat thwarted promise to ourselves that this year we are going to get healthy!
Interestingly, a recent survey by Couponbox discovered the five most popular New Year’s resolutions, also calculating how much each costs us. Of course, one of the most common New Year’s resolutions was to join the gym to get fit and healthy. The statistics showed that gym memberships in the USA increase in January by a whopping 12%, but the people who join usually quit or stop going after 24 weeks! It costs $696 on average per year for a gym membership ($58 per month) – so unfortunately, those who quit also lose money in addition to the health benefits of exercising.
Making New Year’s resolutions or promises to ourselves to kick bad habits and get fit and healthy are sometimes not the best way to get motivated. We can make these changes at any time of year and they are often more successful then, instead of putting the pressure on ourselves in January. It can be very frustrating when you want to stay motivated and be healthy but you let it slide, so we have compiled some helpful tips to help you stick to your goals and stay ambitious!
Be Realistic
The most important thing for goals like losing weight is to be realistic. Don’t expect to lose 2 stone in a month! This would be an unhealthy vision, and if you want to lose weight that stays off, then you must have a sensible diet and know that it won’t happen fast. If you really want to lose weight and you have a realistic, healthy long-term goal in mind then consider joining a slimming group. Some people don’t like the idea of going to a weekly weigh-in. However, you’re all there for the same reason and a lot of people find it very helpful as everyone is very supportive. There is also so much information on the internet about diets, much of it useful but some of it questionable. Don’t fall for the fad diets – you may lose weight in the short-term but you’ll find it hard to keep it off.
Find the Approach that Works for You
Everyone is different, so finding a regular way of exercising that suits you personally is very important. If you choose something which isn’t suitable, you’re more likely to lack motivation. While some people may like to jog four times a week, it could be your idea of hell! Think about all your options and how you will fit it into your routine. Consider: swimming, walking with a friend, going to the gym (if you’re going to stick at it!) or workout classes. If you have a demanding schedule but want to exercise then think about exercising at home. Taking up yoga or pilates can be a great way to tone up and strengthen muscles, it also revives your body and relaxes you.
5 Healthy Herbs And Spices To Include In Your Diet
One Step at a Time
Quitting bad habits is one of the hardest things to do, especially when life feels stressful. Try not to put too much pressure on yourself, instead take it one step at a time. If you want to give up smoking or drinking, then get support from your GP and cut down slowly. Some people find it easier to stop immediately but it is important to have some help and support from friends, family or even specialist support groups. Consider temporary replacement therapies such as nicotine gum or vaping if you want to give up smoking. Keep focused on the future, remind yourself every day that you are will achieve a healthy lifestyle. And be proud of making your baby steps, you need them to reach that goal.
Originally posted on February 17, 2017 @ 4:30 am
