Today’s post comes from Top Tests.
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We all may be a little guilty of over-indulging over the festive season and face the prospect of having to squeeze into a pair of trousers that might not fit. These things happen.
Most of us make the dreaded New Year’s resolutions that we’ll have a six pack by the end of January but sadly most of us give up within a few days. So, this year why not try to make this a lifestyle change rather than just a dietary one so that you can build a better way of life that easily stretches beyond January.
There are three main parts to being healthy which are exercise, diet and being happy.
Exercise: Finding exercise or a sport that you enjoy is a crucial part to keeping up a regular exercise program. Many of us join the gym in January and end up paying for the membership for the whole year but only go a few times. The gym is not the only option when thinking of taking part in regular exercise. Don’t underestimate the value of learning to drive either. Having your own transport can help to get you classes or sporting lessons that you’ll enjoy and so, in the long run, driving could help you unlock a fitter, healthier lifestyle.
Get On Your Bike: Cycling is a fantastic way to get around. You could incorporate it into travelling to work or just have it as a hobby. For adrenaline junkies hit the trails in your local woods for an exhilarating ride. Whether on or off road make sure you are visible and always wear a helmet.
Team Sports: Team sports are great way to try a new sport and make sure that your exercise is a social activity too. Committing to your teammates will, in turn, help to motivate you to stick to training sessions. There are hundreds of local sports teams and you won’t need to travel far to get involved. Visit your local sports partnership website or NHS activity finder for more information.
Running: Running requires very little equipment and costs nothing to do. If you are out of practice with your running then try following a simple couch to 5K running programme. You’ll soon be pounding the streets with confidence.
Diet: Everyone requires different amounts of calories to maintain their body weight but as a rule of thumb men generally need 2500 calories a day and women need 2000 calories a day. We also need to take into account how many calories we have consumed compared to how many calories we have used up doing exercise – an active lifestyle needs more fuel. Government advice on the amount of fruit and vegetables that we should eat daily is now seven portions a day, compared to Norway which recommends nine portions a day. Try to match this if possible.
Generally, making sure that you have a balanced diet and are not consuming too much of one type of food group (particularly fats, salt and sugar) will be essential when trying to lose or maintain a healthy body.
Mind: One thing we often forget about when talking about health is our happiness. Happiness has a huge impact on being healthy. Remember that being confident in yourself and being happy with who you are is very important.
That’s why social exercise can be key. If your diet and fitness regime feel like a chore then you won’t succeed. Make sure you concentrate on your own mental – as well as physical – wellbeing.