Thursday, April 26, 2012

Time, Dedication and Sacrifice = Results

No Short Cuts...Its just that simple.  I would love to tell you that there is a some magic pill,  an insane 5 minute workout or that just  crossing your fingers and wishing for a change is all it takes to get fit and healthy, but no such luck. Today its time for a lot of encouragement and a little tough love. You must commit to making your health a priority, simplify your life and find at least  20-45 minutes a day-  3 to 5 days week for movement exercises.  Notice that I did not say commit to going to the gym or doing a specific exercises,  just commit to MOVING.  When the time comes and you cant make it to the gym, put on your sneakers and walk around the parking lot of your job or walk up and down the stairs in your office or if you are home jump rope, hula hoop, do jumping jacks or go for a walk... Don't try, just DO!   

All change begins with a decision, remember to be mindful of your words, we often say that we are going to try to do this or that..trying and not doing can sometimes be the very same thing.   Time-Exercise  has to be a part of your calendar and daily agendas.  Dedication-Make it a habit and a necessary part of your day.  Sacrifice-Don't indugle in you favorite dessert everyday,  and at some point you will be sore and tired but in the end YOU will be better.

Thursday, January 19, 2012

Develop Good Habits INSTEAD of Resolutions


Most folks feel like they can conquer any obstacle and achieve any goal on December 31st and on or about umm…now, many of us feel like our resolutions are insurmountable mountains looming over us. I realize that this sounds a bit dramatic, but …. you get the point. Now instead of being motivating factors, the BIG Goals that we set for ourselves just a few days ago are negative reminders.  These resolutions were unrealistic.

We often fail to count the cost involved with change and focus solely on the end result or the big picture… consider the small paint strokes that will lead to the big picture. Change is uncomfortable, there is no way around it, but we don’t have to change cold turkey. Small steps can lead to big success. Instead of going on a fad diet, trying to run 1 mile every day, and doing 100 push-ups if you have been inactive, just start with 20 minutes of movement exercises everyday and adding five minutes each day.  You have to be aware of your own body and your limitations…pace yourself.

Researchers say it takes about 21 days to develop a habit. Lets stretch that out to 30 days. Start there. Not just with a plan that says “For the next 6 months I am going to... or for the year I will… just commit to 21-30 days of small changes.  Good habits are made from small steps like including breakfast everyday, adding some movement exercises each day, adding fruits and vegetables to your meals and cutting your cheat days to just one cheat meal a week. You have to change your mindset. Don’t view it as a punishment but as an investment in your healthy future. Take it one day at a time and celebrate your small accomplishments.

Stop Trying…Start Doing!!!!