FIVE TIPS FOR CREATING A HEALTHY ROUTINE THIS YEAR Writer / Stephanie VonTrapp
• 2 nd Strategy: Look at your schedule and determine where you can create time to devote to your health. Is it as practical and convenient as possible? Find three times a week you can commit to at least 15 minutes for yourself.
Every year, after the holiday chaos of shopping, parties, and family gatherings, we find ourselves out of a healthy routine and wondering “How I am going to get myself back into shape?” Follow these five strategies to help yourself successfully create 3. B e Patient: Creating a habit takes time. a lifelong habit of prioritizing your health. Do not attempt to do too much too fast. It is better to walk 15 minutes three times 1. Mind over Matter: Your attitude about a week for 12 weeks than to exercise for a your health is everything. Exercise full hour four times a week before quitting. directly contributes to improved moods, You can always add to your commitment increased energy levels, reduced stress, as you begin to have more energy but the higher quality of sleep, lower body fat, important thing is that you begin with increased metabolism, increased bone a goal that is practical, achievable, and mass, and reduced risk of many acute sustainable. Give yourself eight weeks and chronic illnesses. A healthy exercise to feel comfortable in your routine and routine will yield more time and energy twelve weeks to expect noticeable results. to spend with those you love, more joy in your activities, and an overall improved • 3 rd Strategy: Start slow with an achievable quality of life. Think of exercise as your goal and allow yourself time to adapt. Expect free ticket to a better life and remember eight weeks to solidify a habit and twelve everyone wants to feel better. weeks for results. • 1st Strategy: Focus on your motivation. Why 4. P ersonalize your Plan: There are do you want to feel better? Who and what do thousands of options for exercise and you love? Make your mindset align with your exercise routines are as unique as you are. goal. Consider your long term quality of life. Begin with a commitment to something you feel familiar with (even if it is just a 2. Take Responsibility: In order to walking plan) and as you progress, try create a sustainable habit you must take new things. Consider learning a new skill, responsibility for creating space in your trying a new sport, or attending a new life for it. Where can you fit in your fitness class. You never know what you commitment to your health? Make it may discover! The Louisville Athletic convenient. Are you a morning person Club offers a free week trial to visitors or an evening person? Can you stop and you can bring a friend to try a class or by a health-club on your way to work visit the facility free of charge. There are or afterwards? Do you need childcare? a variety of group fitness classes, personal Can you afford to take 15 minutes from trainers, and even a movie theater to watching television to go on a walk? Take watch movies while you do cardio. From the time to look at your weekly schedule yoga to weightlifting, there is something and try to find three times a week where for everyone at your local health-club. you can devote 15-30 minutes to yourself. Over time, by experimenting, you will This is where you start. Do not wait naturally develop a plan that fits your for the time to prioritize your health. personality and lifestyle. Prioritize it NOW.
• 4th Strategy: Start with an activity you can do effectively and experiment with your routine over time. Consider attending a health-club or seeking the advice of a personal trainer to discover new exercise options. 5. Be Accountable: Accountability is the key to sustainability. You will need to find a way to be accountable to stay on track when your motivation wanes, to track your progress, and to celebrate victories small and large. You can find a friend to be your partner in success, keep a fitness journal, check in on Facebook or Instagram, or keep a calendar on your wall to log successes. If you are sick, or have something knock you off of schedule, simply pick back up where you left off. Face forward with your goals. It is never too late to make a good decision, every good decision is a success and should be acknowledged. • 5th Strategy: Track your progress to keep yourself accountable. Do not be discouraged if you miss a day, acknowledge the days you’ve succeeded and focus on your healthier future. Follow these simple strategies and we are sure you will be enjoying a healthier life before spring. As with all fitness routines, consult a physician for any advice regarding changes to your health care plan. For more information on the LAC, call (502) 753-0999 or visit us online at louisvilleathleticclub.com.”
StMatthewsMag.com / MARCH 2020 / ST. MATTHEWS MAGAZINE / 29
