As December draws to an end, the majority of us will sit regretting eating that extra mince pie and thinking about what New Year’s resolutions we are going to attempt in 2015. A large proportion of people will have health and fitness orientated goals, however research shows that realistically only about 8% actually stick to their resolutions.
To stick to your health and fitness resolutions you need to think practically. If you lead a busy life with a constantly booked up schedule, chances are you aren’t going to make it to the gym for an hour every day. Similarly, if you find exercise a chore it’s unlikely you are going to be up at the crack of dawn practising yoga. To help you be part of that 8% who achieve their 2015 healthy lifestyle aims here are 5 points to help get you kick started in January.
1) Dry January
Give your body a break and ditch the booze for a month. You’ll save on both calories and cash, and your skin will thank you for it.
2) Take The Stairs
Adults should be getting approximately 2 and ½ hours of exercise a week to stay fit. If you struggle to find time to work out this is a great way to get moving while running your daily errands. Alongside being good for your waistline, stair climbing also strengthens both your heart and lungs.
3) Goodbye 34
It may be convenient; it may now run on the weekends but by ditching the 34 and walking into uni you’ll be doing yourself a favour. As well as burning calories, spending time outside is good for your mind and will give you more energy.
4) Snack Smart
With January exams in the not so distant future, re-thinking your snack of choice could improve your concentration. Ditch the chocolate and crisps and instead pick a healthier alternative such as dried fruit or hummus and carrot sticks. A healthy diet is good for you both physically and mentally, so by thinking before you snack you could be directly benefitting your revision.
5) 8 Hours Every Night
Sleep is incredibly important to keep your body functioning properly. Regularly getting a good night’s sleep will improve your memory, attention span and energy levels.
Edited by Mackenzie Orrock
Sources:
– http://www.dryjanuary.org.uk/faqs/
– http://www.maryhillmanor.org/the-benefits-of-getting-fresh-air/
– http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/5-benefits-proper-nutrition-3664.html
– http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20459221_last,00.html
– http://www.saferportsmouth.org.uk/campaigns/2014/dry-january/#.VKaMKSusW1U