The beginning of a new year is a common time to set resolutions, so why not start 2017 with a health bucket list? The following items on thisnew year’s health bucket list will help you get – and stay – healthier in 2023 and for years to come:
1. Fall in love with vegetables
Many people have an aversion to vegetables, which is unfortunate asthey’re generally high in nutrients and low in calories. By trying different ones and changing the way you prepare and use them, you can easily learn to love your veggies.
2. Avoid too much of that guilty food pleasure
A small amount of a guilty pleasure won’t sink your diet. Instead of giving it up cold turkey and being tempted to binge, try to indulge in just a little bit of what you crave. For example, a small square of high-quality chocolate can be more satisfying than a whole high-calorie candy bar.
3. Fit into that outfit
Whether the outfit isalready in your closet or is something you’ve had your eye on for a while, the idea of fitting into that special clothing item can serve as a powerful incentive.
4. Run a mile
Training to run a mile can often be accomplished in just a few weeks, giving you an attainable goal. If you’d like to join in on a San Antonio-area run, many 5k runs also have 1-mile counterparts.
5. Learn how to prepare healthier meals and snacks
Instead of hitting the fast-food drive-throughor the office vending machines, why not learn how to prepare healthy meals and snacks for work? This will not only make it easier to swap out junk food with good nutrients, but it will also help you save money.
6. Reward yourself
When you reach a small fitness goal, treat yourself with new workout clothes, movie tickets, a new outfit or another (non-fattening!) reward.
7. Lose a certain number of pounds
If you need to lose weight, set a goal to reach a specific number. Don’t stop there – make a plan that details exactly how many pounds you’d like to lose a week and how you’ll do it.
8. Mix up your fitness routine
If your workouts are monotonous, you’ll be more likely to abandon them. Instead, liven up your fitness routine with a dance fitness class, kickboxing or a trampoline fitness session. You can also add fitness distractions to keep yourself motivated during your workout.
9. Find a fitness buddy or group
Staying on track is easier when there’s someone there to hold you accountable to your goals. Form a fitness group to help motivate yourself, and be sure to return the favor!
10. Strengthen a skill
Spend some time working on a fitness skill that could use some improvement. For example, maybe you can swim, but not very well. If that sounds like you, taking a refresher course could help improve your technique. Or, if you love tennis, try scheduling a match with a friend once a week or sign up for lessons to hone your skills. San Antonio has a variety of fitness options of which you can take advantage.
11. Start a streak
Track your progress by starting a streak. For example, try exercising every weekday, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Keeping the streak alive will be good motivation to maintain your progress and good habits.
12. Feel self-confident
Becoming fit and healthy will help boost your self-confidence, which can extend into many areas. Losing excess weight could give you the confidence you need to start a new career, go back to school or do any number of other things to improve your life!
For more information about achieving your new year’s health bucket list, contact BMI of Texas.
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