April 2017
What better time than springtime to kick your fitness up a notch! Longer days and warmer weather
provide the perfect motivation. And you don't have to start training for a marathon, either; as long
as you're getting more activity than you used to, you're on the right track. Let springtime's
rejuvenation inspire you to break down those barriers and finally make fitness a way of life.
1. Set a Schedule…but Be Realistic
If you haven't been working out much this winter, don't write down that you'll do outdoor
cardio exercises for 30 minutes a day, six days a week. You'll only find yourself getting
frustrated and will be more likely to give up on your workout program. Post your exercise
plan in places you'll look frequently, like the calendar app on your smartphone or at your
desk at work.
2. Team Up
You're more likely to stick with your plan if you've got a partner. Choose
someone who has similar goals and whose schedule fits with your own.
3. Clean Out Your Pantry
Still have that tin of popcorn from the holidays or a box of chocolates from Valentine's Day? Get rid of them. And
while you're at it, throw away other foods low in nutritional value, like chips, pretzels, sugary cereals, white bread
and, yes, even those 100 calorie snack packs (a cookies still a cookie, even if you squash it flat and drop five in a
bag).
4. Change Your Thinking
Instead of designing goals based purely on weight loss, concentrate on how you feel. If counting calories has you
down, think in terms of portions instead. Constantly checking the clock during your workout? Find a sport or
activity that you actually enjoy.
5. Step Off the Scale
Muscle weighs more than fat, so although you may look more toned, there's a chance you
might not be shedding pounds at the rate you'd expect. To get an accurate measure of your
progress, use measuring tape once every two weeks to see where you're trimming inches
from your waist, hips, and other target areas.
6. Reward Yourself
Don't forget to take care of yourself! Pamper yourself with a massage or reward yourself with a new pair of shoes
or a new outfit for your progress.