Simple Ways To Stay Fit

One of the most asked questions I get and topic requests is about fitness. With the new year, I thought it was appropriate do a little post about some simple tips to stay fit and stick to it this year! I have learned that in order to maintain my weight and sanity (honestly) these were essential moves I had to make in my life. Hope you find it helpful!

PUT IT IN INK

You guys, I cannot tell you enough times how much setting an appointment to work out in my calendar has changed my life. I mean, think of it — you stick to the doctor’s appointments and work meetings that are on your calendar, so why not take the same approach to exercise sessions? I have a set time that I like to go to the gym and work out and I ALWAYS schedule it and write it down. It helps keep me accountable and if I can’t make it one day it’s not the end of the world BUT I feel a little worse about it, if that makes sense.

WALK YOUR DOG

If you have a dog, you literally don’t have an excuse not to exercise. Walk your dog a few times a day, and try to do more of a brisk walk to get your heart rate up.

USE YOUR HOME

Although I don’t use them all the time, I have a set of dumbbells near my work station if I need. I also suggest if you are watching tv make it a point to do crunches, planks or squats during commercial breaks. You can even use a stability ball as a desk chair to engage your core while working.

TRAINER OR APPS!

I highly suggest if you have the means to do so – hire a personal trainer to make you accountable and keep you on track. If this is not an option for you there are SO many amazing apps you can use while you are at the gym that literally walk you through a complete workout. My favorites are Sweat and SworkIt.

TRACK YOUR STEPS

Wearing some kind of device that logs your progress may motivate you. I used to have a fitbit and loved it but also wanted something that provided more uses so I upgraded to an Apple Watch. I use it religiously and love the fitness aspect of it. It pushes me to get my steps in and my workout ring complete each day.

CONSISTENCY AND MODERATION

In order to maintain a healthy and fit lifestyle, it’s important to have some sort of consistency when looking at the big picture result. Make changes one at a time, and don’t make too many changes at once or you will risk getting back to your old habits. Making these choices a part of your daily life will help you to reach your health goals. Avoid extremes in any capacity. Exercise moderation when it comes to fitness, food and fun.

HANG WITH FIT PEOPLE

You know that saying, “you are what you eat?” Well, you are who you eat with (and socialize with) as well. Think about it: if all your friends are constantly getting fast food and donuts for dessert, and always choosing sedentary activities like going to movies or sitting around for hours, what do you think you’re going to do? Probably eat junk and sit around all day too.

On the other hand, if your friends are into healthy cooking, or trying new restaurants with local, fresh ingredients, and want to go bike riding or organize a pick up game of soccer for fun, you’re most likely going to join in and be more active as a result. I know I am SO much more motivated when I’m around people who like to work out and stay fit, that’s for sure.

80/20 RULE

What I tend to recommend is sticking to the 80/20 rule. 80% of the time you’re on track, 20% of the time you indulge. It’s really the key to staying fit and keeping sane, in my opinion. Eating healthy is learning to listen to your body. What makes you feel good? What keeps you feeling full and energized throughout the day? What helps you kick ass during your workouts? What keeps you feeling and looking fit? For example I know that as much as I LOVE pasta, rice, breads and TONS of carbs, they make me feel bloated, lazy and tired. When I cut these things out suddenly I have 10x more energy and I’m feeling way better. Once you start to keep track of these things you’ll start to learn quick.