Month: November 2017

Staying fit a key to life

Life Keys
Staying fit is something many desire these days; however, most of us are unsure how to accomplish fitness. However, there are means and ways to stay fit and add years to your life such as eating a healthy lunch, working out at the gym or engaging in a healthy walk. Which brings us to the next important way to stay fit and that is walking. Research shows that walking is one of the best ways to stay fit and it costs nothing! If you walk for 20-30 minutes a day, you can lose almost 200 calories. And, if you consume low-fat, high in fiber foods, you will add strength to your diet and exercise routine.

However, even though you continue a fitness and low-fat diet, you can always make room for a snack now and then. Allow yourself a treat like a delicious snack bar or a low-fat muffin. Such treats will keep you on your diet program. In addition, to stay fit it is also important to find activities that get you moving such as a bike ride or an enjoyable and scenic hike. Such activities will not only get you moving, you will also have fun!

Workouts, as many will tell you, can be a bore; however, by creating and maintaining a 10-20 minute workout, one that works your entire body, you will be more inclined to stay with your workouts and you will get more out of them. Keep in mind; we all know how important a good night’s sleep is but it is even more important for your health and overall fitness to get at least six to seven hours a sleep at night.

Diets that are rich in vegetables and fruits are diets that will keep you healthy in the short term as well as the long term. Don’t underestimate the value and energy that vegetables and fruits provide for your body. Vegetables are loaded with nutrients that keep your body health and the fiber content of vegetables also gives your stomach a full feeling. Broccoli can be spruced up with butter, garlic butter and a dash of pepper. Broccoli or corn can also be poured over baked potatoes and noodles.

We’ve all heard it say, “Drink plenty of water.” Of course this is true; however, it is even truer if you want to stay healthy and fit. When you have water on hand, you will be more likely to say “no” to sugary beverage. This can save you a host of calories.

One of the best ways to say fit and healthy is to plan ahead. For example, on the weekend, take time to plan some easy snacks and meals for you and your family; meals that will get you through the coming week. This could save you and yours from ordering unhealthy fried food from drive-in take-out restaurants. You could grill some hamburgers and chop up some vegetables so you and yours can snack on. This will save you time and energy during the week. For those who hike or walk several miles a day, bring along some trail mixes or snack bars. It will prevent cravings for junk food; food that can quickly put on the pounds. Keep them in your car or purse and when hunger strikes, you won’t be eating high calorie snacks.

Most importantly, don’t try to be perfect with your fitness and eating routine. Those who succeed with their fitness plans have found, through trial and error, a balance in their fitness plans. For example, if you eat a bunch of peanuts or several peanut butter cookies in a moment of desperation or extreme hunger, don’t spend most of the day feeling guilty. Next time, choose a tasty, low-calorie snack and you will feel better about yourself and your fitness program will continue.

In addition, one of the best ways to stay fit for life is to find someone who will exercise with you side-by-side. Research shows that when you exercise and diet with a partner, you are more likely lose the weight and keep it off. Someone who supports and encourages you will help you through your fitness program and you can help him or her, too! Keep in mind; eating a healthy breakfast is another great way to stay fit for life. A healthy breakfast will get your metabolism going and do wonders in getting the weight off. If you fast during the morning hours you will be more likely to overeat later in the day. So, have a bowl of wheat flakes in the morning or a slice of wheat bread with a small dose of peanut butter or a small portion of scrambled eggs with a cup of coffee.