It is common knowledge that the importance of regular exercise positively impacts overall health and well-being. Sometimes, however, after all the turkey, pavlovas and pudding of the festive season we feel sluggish and unmotivated and it can be hard to get on to a healthier path. Well guess what! You are not alone and we've all been there. Sometimes all we need is a plan so here are some simple tips that will surely help you kickstart 2024 to a healthier you.
Setting Clear Goals #1: is essential for success.
Start Small #2: and progress gradually.
Select Classes #3: that suits your needs.
Create a Schedule #4: and stick to it.
Get Support #5: from friends and/or community.
Setting Clear Goals #1: is essential for success.
It's really important to know what it is that you want to improve on. Is it weight loss, strength building, endurance, mobility, bone density, cardiovascular training? Is it to get moving and feel better?
Write it down in just a few words and put it where you will see it every day. E.g. On the fridge or the dashboard of your car. The goal may change over time but it is still very useful to have something concrete to aim for.
Start Small #2: and progress gradually.
Starting with manageable workouts will heighten your chances of success. If you have not been exercising then start with 2 sessions a week and gradually increase it that to 3 and then 4. Get healthy NSW recommends 30 minutes of moderate-intense physical activity most days for a healthy lifestyle. 60-90 minutes if you are wanting to lose weight. If you've already been exercising then you might like to look at increasing your sessions to challenge yourself.
Select Classes #3: that suit your needs.
Variety is the spice of life. The beauty of most pilates studios and health centres is that you can choose different classes depending on your goals. For example some studios and gyms offers classes that focus more on different fitness outcomes; endurance, flexibility & mobility, strength, cardiovascular fitness. If you are not sure what to choose you can ask your instructor or trainer for advice.
Create a Schedule #4: and stick to it.
Now it's time to get out the diary and plan your schedule. Look at the timetable for your local pilates gym or yoga studio and plan which classes you will attend. Book them in ahead of time. You may wish to compliment your classes with outside training like walking, running, yoga, cycling, swimming depending on your goals. These will also be part of your routine. Make sure you put those times in your diary too. Remember to keep it realistic with your schedule. There's no point in planning 7 sessions a week if you don't have that time.
Get Support #5: from friends and/or community.
Social support can be very important for maintaining motivation. Your local health studio will be wonderful for this. When we go along to a class (especially if the class numbers are small), you share common goals, have a chat, share a joke and you have the support of your instructor who is there to motivate you and help you achieve your goals. You may even wish to bring a friend along to train and you can motivate each other. You could join a group on social media that has the same goal. Follow a group or business on facebook or instagram that helps keep you motivated.
So there you have it. Set your goals, start small and progress, select and book any sessions, create your schedule and get some support from friends or your community. Your new year is off to a great start even just by reading this blog. Woohoo! Success!!!
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