You don’t have to plunge head-first into fitness and do hundreds of push-ups immediately. You can get fitter by making small changes first. Everyone is different. Some people have more success by immersing themselves in their program while others like to dip their toes and gently approach something new. If you’re a toe-dipper, here are some ideas to help you build up to a healthier lifestyle.

Take the first step.

Getting fit requires you to take extra steps and move more. If you aren’t ready to exercise, start walking. Walk an extra half hour to 45 minutes a day. You don’t have to do it all at once. You can walk for 15 minutes in the morning, 15 minutes at lunch, and 15 minutes at the end of the day. Increase your pace every week until you’re walking fast. Do extra things to increase movement, like taking the stairs or parking further from the store.

Eating healthy is vital to any fitness program.

Eating healthy isn’t the same as dieting. When you diet it restricts your diet to specific food. Eating healthier involves making better decisions when choosing food. If you aren’t ready to commit to a healthy menu full-time, do it part-time. Choose healthy menus two to three times a week. Once you realize how good healthy food tastes, start doing meal planning for the week. You can also take another approach. Start by giving up food with added sugar. Then, eliminate other unhealthy food, like fried or highly processed food.

Add a quiet, meditative time to your day.

Learn ways to reduce stress. Meditation, deep breathing exercises, or visualization can help. Practice relaxation techniques for 15 to 20 minutes a day. Turn off all electronic devices or do it in a dark room at first. Sometimes, all it takes to relax is removing yourself from the noise and chatter for a few minutes. Take time to count your blessings. An attitude of gratitude can improve your health.

• After you make any changes, continue it for three to four weeks. Don’t rush into the next change until you feel ready. It takes a while to establish a habit. Modify your change if it’s too hard. Instead of giving up food with added sugar completely, start by switching out soft drinks for water.
• Find a workout partner or use our expert coaching when you’re ready for a complete exercise program. Both help motivate you and hold you accountable. Our coaches create programs specifically for your needs.
• Stay hydrated. Drinking water does more than quench your thirst. It boosts your energy level. Even mild dehydration can make you tired. Drink a glass of water a half hour before a meal and you’ll eat less.
• Substitute healthy food for high-calorie desserts. A parfait of yogurt, frozen cherries, a half-banana, and nuts can satisfy your desire for sweetness but is also healthy. We can help you find other healthy additions to your diet.

For more information, contact us today at Team-ISC