We’re well on our way into 2016 and we all know that the New Year brings about optimistic resolutions to get fit or achieve the perfect ‘bikini body’. A lot of us will snap up a gym membership in January out of guilt from Christmas’ over-indulgence and the enthusiasm will die out by mid-February latest. But that’s not the way it should be!
If you truly do want to live a healthier lifestyle this year but just get into the New Year’s trap, it’s important to know where to start. Getting into shape isn’t just about going to the gym a few times a week; you need to focus on the food you’re putting into your body too. Without further ado, here are our five top tips to getting back on track in the next few weeks.
Make your goals manageable
You shouldn’t make your resolutions really hard to obtain because then you won’t be discouraged when things aren’t happening quickly. Set yourself an end goal, but write down the milestones you want to reach between that time. Things like cutting out alcohol during the week, doing 50 sit-ups every night or fitting into a pair of jeans you used to love.
Swap out your snacks
There’s a good chance that over the festive period, ‘snacking’ became eating half a box of Celebrations or a plate full of cheese and crackers. Swap out your snacks to fruit and veg or even a protein bar to keep you feeling full. Eating nutritious snacks will get you feeling fresh and more awake.
Don’t skip breakfast!
It’s true: breakfast is the most important meal of the day. And we’re sorry to say that sugary and fatty breakfasts aren’t the way to go if you’re looking to lose weight. Having a protein heavy breakfast with some slow-releasing carbs is a great way to keep you feeling full so that the temptation to snack doesn’t arise. Starting your day by filling yourself with protein is said to help you make healthier choices throughout the rest of the day.
Dry January is actually a good idea
Christmas is the time for drinking and being merry; from mulled wine to spiced cider. Whilst this is all fun and games, it can rack up quite a lot of calories throughout December. You’ll find when you cut out the glugs of alcohol, the Christmas weight will drop off quite quickly. Chances are you’ll also start to feel less groggy in the mornings!
Keep exercise interesting
If you weren’t a massive fitness buff in the first place, doing the same exercise routine three or four times a week could get pretty boring. Switch it up a bit by taking a class once a week, maybe even with friends! Experiment with exercises you’ve never done before like team sports or running. Find out what we have going on at The Holbrook Club here.