10 Simple Ways

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To Stay Fit

Life is abundant with fitness opportunities! They’re in the food we eat, the way we walk, the way we think, and how we live our lives. A common misconception is that fitness requires working out in a fancy gym. But really, fitness is a lifestyle and requires a balance of body and mind in order to truly reach fruition.

In a world where stress is inevitable, fitness should not be overwhelming. Avoid any “Biggest Loser” type goals that set the stage for failure. Making small attainable goals can give you a boost of confidence to build on.

Start by adding one or two of these tips to your day. Once they become habit, add some more. Before you know it, you will be living a healthy lifestyle.

1. Eat Clean

Our bodies were not designed to digest ‘fake’ processed foods contrived of chemicals and dyes. Our bodies crave real foods with real nutritional value. Design meals around fresh (or frozen) fruits and vegetables instead of pre-packaged, over-processed foods.

Tip: While grocery shopping, take a glance at the ingredient list hidden on the back of the products you intend to buy. Rule of thumb is if you have no idea what anything means, then it is probably not a great choice.

2. Step Up

Given the choice of stairs and the escalator, what would you choose? Step up to the stairs! Just because you’re not in the gym, and won’t be stepping for a half hour, doesn’t mean it’s not exercise. Every bit of movement counts and stairs are the most effective, everyday item you should be taking advantage of.

Tip: When presented with stairs, try slowly stepping every other step to activate those leg muscles. Or, take a little jog up the steps. Don’t be afraid if you are tired at the top, the more you choose the stairs, the easier it will get.

3. Water Yourself

We would never think of not watering our grass or flowers. They are living things that need water to perform functions necessary for survival. Oh wait, that applies to us too! Our bodies are 75% water and we lose water periodically throughout the day. Replenishing our body’s H2O is essential to effective bodily functions.

Tip: Some people can’t stand the taste of water. Try flavored water, decaffeinated iced tea, lemonade, or another all natural drink made primarily with water. Avoid drinks that contain caffeine and sugar as they contribute to dehydration.

4. Exercise

Even though you may be active during they day, your body likes some time dedicated exclusively to making it better. A balance of cardio, strength, and flexibility should keep your body sufficiently happy.

Tip: The American Heart Association recommends 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity 5 days per week, or 20 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity 3 days per week. They also recommend 2 days devoted to strength training.

5. Eat Often

Yes, really! To keep your energy balanced you want to slowly replace calories as they are used. This also helps to keep from being so ravished that you feel the need to binge all at once.

Tip: A breakfast consisting of 500 calories, 200 calorie snack, 300 calorie lunch, 200 calorie snack, 500 calorie dinner, and 200 calorie snack before bed brings you to 1,900 calories! You never feel hungry because you are eating all day and depending on your caloric needs, you still may have some calories to spare.


6. Rewards!

What is life without fun! Reward yourself for a job well done. Your favorite foods in moderation, the newest gadget you’ve been saving up for, or a trip somewhere you’ve always wanted to go. Give yourself what you deserve and encourage your overall good behavior.

7. Don’t Stop Moving

Life is a dynamic activity and you should be prepared to move with it. Keep busy, keep moving, keep active and your body will always be used to it.


8. Feed Your Soul

We are all aware of how feeding our body keeps us fit, but what about our soul? Having fulfillment in our lives keeps our mind and body in equilibrium. If one area is lacking, it is sure to pull the other down with it. Reflect on your life and be sure to find fulfillment in order to attain a fit mind and body.

9. Find ‘You’ Time

Just as our body needs some 1 on 1 time, so does our mind. Take time to do the things that make you happy. Even if it is just 15 minutes to check email, write, exercise, or what ever your hobby may be. Personal hobbies are an integral piece to our overall mind and body fitness.

10. Be Positive

People who are positive tend to have a positive outlook on everything. Look on the bright side of things and your body will soon follow.

Staying fit is a lifestyle. It is not a diet fad or a magic potion and it doesn’t even require a state-of-the-art fitness facility. Staying fit requires a balance of a healthy body and mind. Focusing on these two facets together will lead you to your fitness fruition.

By Michelle Homan