As 2013 begins, it is a common goal to make 2013 the year you really get in shape. Here are five tips to help achieve your fitness goals:
1. Establish a Routine- Make a schedule of the days and times you plan to work out. Make your schedule a priority. If you try to squeeze your workouts in whenever you have time, you will never have the time. Pick a time that works for you and stick too it.
2. Set a Goal and Pick a Program to Reach It- Decide what your goal with your exercise program is (burn fat, lose weight, gain muscle, increase cardiovascular health, etc), then decide on a specific program to achieve your goal. If you have a goal, but are unsure how to choose a program consult with a personal trainer or your medical or chiropractic physician.
3. Manage Your Diet- While exercise is important in maintaining fitness, it is very difficult to be fit with exercise alone. You must monitor both the caloric intake and nutrient value of what you eat to reach your goals in the most efficient and effective way.
4. Ensure Proper Form – Whether its lifting weights, running/walking, or any other form of exercise, proper form is essential. It is important to understand how each exercise should be performed (talk to a trainer or doctor if you are unsure), however, equally important is ensuring that your body is in proper alignment. Watch yourself in the mirror and look for things like one shoulder higher than the other or head jutted forward over the shoulders. It is recommended to consult your chiropractic physician before beginning any new exercise routine. A regular adjustment can help avoid injury and ensure proper form.
5. Pace Yourself and Stick With It – Anytime you start a new or different exercise routine it is important to start slowly and work up to the intensity you desire. Overdoing a new routine is a frequent cause of injury and can end or delay your fitness goals. Don't get discouraged if the change you want comes more slowly than you anticipated. Change takes time. You may not notice weight loss in the first two weeks, but stick with it and it will come. If you feel that your routine is not working, don't just give up, speak with your doctor to see what could be going wrong. Don't be too hard on yourself, if you miss a day don't give up, simply rededicate yourself to your routine and keep going.
