Jump Start Your Fitness!

Holiday season over-eating and imbibing can often lead to feelings of sluggishness and laziness during the first month of the New Year. But how many of you know that putting off working out is like putting off paying a bill: the more you put it off, the bigger the problem gets!  Whether you’re motivated by weight loss Resolution, or you want to freshen up your current routine, these tips will help you start off 2013 by putting your best fitness foot forward!

Photo Credit: Petr Kratochvil

1. TRY SOMETHING NEW. Your old running shoes slumped sadly in the corner many not exactly be inspiring you to get moving this month. So why not infuse your fitness with something new? Ditch the elliptical and take a dance class as a cardio workout alternative. Or try resistance training and give the free weights a break. You’d be surprised how much trying something you’ve never done before can bring a fresh and fun perspective to your fitness plan.

2. DRINK YOURSELF A RIVER. Okay, well, maybe not literally, but increasing your H20 intake is a quick and easy way to boost your metabolism and promote weight loss. The human body is 2/3 water and the absence of it, i.e., dehydration, can produce harmful effects including headaches. So, instead of reaching for another latte, try grabbing a bottle of water. You’ll be glad you did!

3. ZONE OUT – Music is your friend when it comes to working out, so if you haven’t already invested in some sort of sound system, you may want to consider that as your first major investment of the year! Creating a personalized playlist of all your heart-pounding, bass-pumping favorites will make your workout feel more like a party and you’ll be surprised how quickly the time will pass.

4. EXERCISE ALL DAY EVERY DAY – You’ve heard this one before, but it’s worth repeating. Find ways to increase your levels of activity throughout the day.

5. RESEARCH – There’s a ton of information about fitness at your disposal. From magazines and books to web sites and Dr. Oz, you can literally become a wellness expert in no time! Learning about new recipes, fat-burning foods and the hottest workout trends can help give you ideas about ways to improve your existing workout regimen and tailor a plan that’s filled with all of your favorites!

6. SET GOALS. Whether it’s a specific number on the scale you’re trying to reach, or a pair of skinny jeans you’re trying to rock, set a goal that will inspire you to keep moving.

Hey, they don’t call it “working” out for nothing. For most people, becoming and staying active requires a lot of effort. But the results of remaining committed to your health and wellness will be obvious to you and others around you. From better focus and increased energy during the day, to a better night’s sleep at night – fitness truly does a body good.

If you haven’t yet committed to jump starting your health for 2013, there’s no time like the present to get yourself in gear. In the words of British statesman Lord Chesterfield, “Know the true value of time; snatch, seize, and enjoy every moment of it.”

If you have a fitness tip or advice you’d like to share with Wiles, please Join the Conversation on Facebook or Twitter and let us know what workouts work best for you!

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