Daily Times (Primos, PA)

7 fitness resolution­s that are easy to keep

- Metro Creative

Resolution­s to get in shape, exercise more and eat healthier foods are popular each January.

Optimism reigns when making resolution­s, but for many, the difficulty lies in keeping them.

Individual­s looking to get healthier in the year ahead can try these strategies to stay the course.

WAKE UP EARLIER » Waking up a half hour earlier each day can have a substantia­l impact. That small amount of extra time can be devoted to meditation, deep breathing exercises or even some

yoga stretches.

MOVE AROUND MORE FREQUENTLY » Many people with office jobs spend hours sitting in front of computers. A sedentary lifestyle can have an adverse effect on overall health. Set a timer or use a reminder on a fitness tracker to remind you to get up and move around for a little bit every hour.

EAT MORE VEGETABLES »

Vague goals like eating better are difficult to maintain because there is no specific goal to achieve. Rather, a resolution like eating a fruit or vegetable each day at every meal is something measurable. Vegetables can be hidden in favorite foods, such as desserts. Swap pasta noodles for spiralized zucchini as another easy fix. STAND STRAIGHTER » Posture tends to decline with age, advises AARP. This can cause the spine to lose flexibilit­y. Stretches to maintain posture can help anyone stand straighter and improve long-term health.

ADD BURST TO YOUR WALK » Researcher­s at the Mayo Clinic tout the benefits of interval training. While highimpact workouts may not be appropriat­e for everyone, adding little speed bursts to a daily walk can provide sigwalking

nificant health benefits. Aim for 30 to 60 seconds of rapid at regular intervals to shake up the workout.

DRINK MORE WATER » Increasing water intake can help you feel fuller, thus reducing the likelihood that you will overeat. Gradually increase your water intake by adding a few ounces each day until drinking water becomes rote.

TAKE A WORKOUT OUTSIDE »

Switch up your normal routine by making use of the great outdoors to exercise. Instead of three miles on the treadmill or elliptical machine at the gym, opt for three miles on a local hiking trail.

 ?? METRO CREATIVE ?? Healthy resolution­s are easier to keep when you have firm ideas and choose reasonable goals.
METRO CREATIVE Healthy resolution­s are easier to keep when you have firm ideas and choose reasonable goals.

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