Recently a friend reached out to me for some fitness/ weight loss motivation. I have picked up some good tips along the way as I have worked towards getting healthier and fitter. So I thought I would share. You never know who might be looking for some motivation of their own. ;). 1. Don't just say "I'm going to start working out tomorrow". Be specific. Set a time, have a plan. 2. If you hate walking on the treadmill or riding a bike, you will never get where you want by doing those things. You will get bored and quit. 3. Find something you love and will look forward to doing. Some people love yoga, some people love lifting weights, some enjoy running. There is something out there for you, keep looking. 4. Don't wait until you have time to workout, make time!! 5. Know what your workout will be every day, write it on a calendar. If you plan on winging it, it doesn't happen. 6. DON'T DO THE SAME WORKOUT EVERYDAY!! Your body adapts fairly quickly and needs change. Mix it up and increase whenever you are able. Try something new, take a class! 7. Don't allow your excuses. Before you know it you have not worked out in two weeks and your progress is lost. AND you have to start over. Don't stop and you don't have to start over. 8. Set a specific goal (walk or run a mile, do 10 proper pushups, 30 minutes on the elliptical). 9. Beware foods that say low fat or other nonsense. Fat is not bad. The sugar that they add when they replace the fat is what is unhealthy and is causing you to gain weight. 10. Use an app like MyFitnessPal, spark people, or lose it to track your food and calories. 11. Pay attention to your macronutrients (protein, carbs, fat). Make sure you are getting the right amount of each. The apps will help you with that also. 12. Ladies, don't be afraid to build muscle. It will make you look trimmer and toned. Having muscle also makes you more efficient at burning calories all day long. 13. Don't freak out if the scale does not move as fast as you want it to. Don't give up, trust the process. Remember also, muscle weighs more than fat. 14. Many people do not eat enough when they are trying to lose weight, this puts your body into starvation mode and it tends to hold onto fat for survival. 15. Eat small well rounded meals throughout the day with a balance of your macronutrients if possible. 16. Don't listen to anyone who puts down your efforts or does not praise you. Be proud of every small change you are making for yourself. 17. Don't be hard on yourself. It's easier to take care of a body you love than a body you hate. 18. Don't feel guilty for taking time from others to work out. Remember, if you are sick, tired or unhealthy what good are you to anyone? 19. Share your story, tell people your goals, you are more likely to stay accountable. 20. If you ever need someone to motivate you or give you a pat on the back, I'm here!!! I love to help and it inspires me as well to see others getting healthy. Best wishes for a happy and healthy 2019!
