Sticking to Those New Year’s Resolutions? Or Are You Making Lifestyle Changes?

It’s that time of year again when we all resolve to get back in shape or just take off those few extra pounds we put on during the holidays.

I have a better idea.

Why not resolve to make fitness and healthy eating a lifestyle change. Your mindset is the key to success. This is not for the short run, this is a lifestyle change. If you’re new to working out or if it has been awhile, here are a few simple rules to help you get started.

· Watch your food intake (calories in/calories out). It all sounds so simple but we all tend to underestimate our food intake and overestimate our exercise output. A simple rule of thumb is that we typically burn about 100 calories per one mile of walking. Keep a food diary and really think before you take that slice of pizza.

· Absolutely do resistance training and cardio workouts.

· Work with a personal trainer at least at the beginning. At Martin Memorial Health and Fitness, we offer a complimentary training session to get started on the right path.

· Set realistic goals for yourself. A perfect example of a short term and realistic goal is to sign up for a 5K walk/run. As a matter of fact, we have the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure on January 30 in West Palm Beach. Get together with friends and sign up to walk or run. If you are an exercise newbie, I recommend walking. What a great way to start off your New Year!

· Mix it up! Zumba, yoga, pilates, low-impact aerobics, biking, boot camp, stationary bikes, elliptical, rowing, treadmills, strength training, water aerobics! The list goes on and on. We must always challenge ourselves and our bodies. If you change up your routine, you will most likely stick to your fitness program.

· Make exercise a priority. Exercise should be scheduled into your day. You only need 30 minutes a day to make a difference.

In closing, please be patient. Your body will respond to this new way of life in no time at all. I wish you all a very happy and healthy 2010.

--Jane Reynolds
Health and Fitness Technician
Hospital South Health and Fitness