Achieving Your Wellness Goals

Starting a new wellness routine can be daunting. You might not know how to make sense of all the different workout plans out there or be overwhelmed at the prospect of exercising again after being relatively inactive. When it comes to proper nutrition, you may be burnt out after trying fad diets, or think eating healthy is too restrictive. No matter what you may be feeling, we want you to know the YMCA of Central Florida is here for you! Our Y team members are ready to support you no matter what stage of your wellness journey you’re on, and want to offer a few tips for (re)starting and committing to your fitness routine.

Sticking with Your Fitness Goals

Find Activities You Enjoy

Exercise doesn’t have to be painful. Don’t feel pressured to lift weights for hours on end because that’s what you think you should be doing. Exercise comes in many forms! Whether it’s a dance class, a sport you played as a kid, or even meditating in a quiet studio, find an activity that makes you happy (even if it does leave you a little sore). When you don’t dread physical activity, you’ll be more likely to stay moving.

Get in Some Group Exercise

Exercising with friends can make physical activity fun and less intimidating. YMCA group exercise classes are a great example of this. Our group exercise classes are fun, supportive environments you can enjoy while you burn calories. We have a variety of high-intensity classes from Zumba® and LESMILLS RPM to more relaxed classes like Tai Chi and Osteo-safe Pilates. Consider trying a variety of classes to keep your muscles guessing and your routine fresh throughout the year.

Start Small

It’s easy to charge into a new workout plan full-steam ahead, but resist the urge to overload yourself. Starting small will give you a greater chance of success and reduce the risk of burnout. For instance, creating a cardio routine is a great first step of your overall goal of improving your mile time.

Talk with a Y team member at your family center and learn how to use the different cardio machines, and figure out what your baseline is. From there, increase your time and/ or distance a little during each visit. You can also try adding a new activity once a week, such as swimming, for a low-impact cardio option. Habits will form as you build on these smaller steps, and soon you’ll be reaching your larger goal.

Don’t Go it Alone

Sometimes you may feel like you need an extra push to stay accountable. Try setting a shared goal with an exercise partner, or using the Y’s personal training program. The social aspect will keep you motivated, and you’ll be less likely to bail on your exercise plans. Not to mention, a personal trainer will help you train safely and celebrate results along the way!

Sticking with Your Food Goals

While setting your goals, try not to think about what foods you need to restrict or how many unhealthy ingredients are in your snacks and meals. Instead, think about how slowly adding healthier options will help you to become the best version of yourself and help alter your mindset for the better when it comes to food. Check out these tips from Chef Gary Appelsies, our Director of Healthy Eating.

Start Slowly

If eating healthy is new to you or something you’ve struggled with, try adding in healthy foods a little bit at a time. Make them foods that you enjoy. For example, replace a candy bar with a piece of sweet fruit, or cut back on the amount of sugar you put in your coffee.

Eat More Plant-based Foods

You don’t need to become a vegan or vegetarian if you don’t want to, but eating plantbased foods is a perfect way to feel more energetic. Complex carbohydrates such as grains, whole wheat, quinoa, beans, fruits, vegetables, seeds, and nuts are going to provide your body the energy it needs to keep you going throughout the day.

Drink Plenty of Water

Water is a great way to help with digestion and keeps us hydrated. Don’t mistake thirst for hunger pains. If you think you might be hungry, take a second to think about the last time you had a glass of water. Your hunger might really be your body telling you it’s thirsty.

Eat Without Distractions

When we’re distracted, we tend to eat more unnecessarily and choose unhealthy options. Have a conversation with someone as you eat. If you’re by yourself, put on some music, or do something that creates a space to focus on your eating.