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Healthier Lifestyle for the New Year

© Gloria Ferri

Well it is a new year! For many of us it is time to begin our New Year resolutions . . . perhaps exercising and a healthier lifestyle. The beginning of the year always seems like the perfect time to begin a new fitness routine , start eating healthier and generally live a healthier life . After all, "Out with the Old, In with the New" is the motto!! Resolutions are great motivators, but sticking to them can be tricky. With a little thought and proper planning, sticking to your plans all year long can be made a lot easier.

First of all, take a positive approach towards your goals. Do not set high goals. Instead, improve a little bit everyday gradually. This will make you more likely stick to your routine and avoid disappointment. If your goal is to be more active and fit, pick activities that you actually enjoy. Choose something that does not burn you out. Plan a weekly workout schedule and choose days that are convenient for you, whether that be at a gym or at home. If you are planning on working out in a gym, do not choose one that is too far from home. Add variety to your workouts to avoid bordom. Choose your activity by your personality type. If you are a solitary type, find something you can do by yourself without a trainer, instructor or a group of people. If you are the type that likes the company of others, work out with a friend. Chart your progress so you can see your improvements. As an added incentive, reward yoursel after each workout with little things like a relaxing bubble bath, pampering yourself, or a relaxing activity - - like reading a new exciting book, watching a good movie or reading fitness and health magazines, which will motivate you further.

If your goal is to lose weight choose a sensible plan in which calories are reduced and physical activity increased. Learn to enjoy healthy foods. Replace your fatty foods with healthier foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Experiments with different cooking methods and new recipes that reduce fat. Do not cut out all of your favorite foods such as chocolate, ice cream, french fries, otherwise you will crave them even more. Instead have them occasionally and moderately to satisfy those cravings.

Fad diets claiming quick weight loss using diet pills, diet food, diet drinks do not work and often lead to disappointment. Unfortunately, a lot of people are looking for quick fixes rather than changing their dietary and lifestyle habits. Signs of a fad diet are as follows:

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