The sun’s finally shining and the birds are singing, which means one thing – it’s time for spring cleaning. No, we’re not talking about tidying up your house (though that probably wouldn’t hurt). We’re talking about kicking off the new season with healthy habits that will re-ignite your motivation and take your fitness to the next level. We’ve got some tips to help you get started.
1. Perfect your playlist.
It’s time to update your workout jams! Studies show that listening to the right music while exercising elevates your mood and enhances motivation, which will ultimately give you better results. Look for tunes with a strong rhythm, upbeat melodies and empowering lyrics, then put them in an order that corresponds to your workout intensity (i.e. save the soothing sounds for cool-down).
2. Plan your meals for the week.
After you’ve tossed all the processed junk food lurking in your pantry and fridge, sit down and plan a menu of healthy meals for the week. Just list the nutritious ingredients you already have on hand, then write your shopping list for other items you may need to complete the meals. By planning your meals in advance, you’ll save time at the grocery store and avoid diet slip-ups.
3. Try a new fitness class.
Not only do fitness studios give you more one-on-one attention than traditional gyms, trying a new group class will target new muscle groups, teach you new skills, and help you make new friends. If you are currently in the Kickboxing class, try a Jiu-Jitsu, Karate or MMA class to refresh your training.
4. Schedule an annual check-up.
If you are over the age of 35, you should have an annual check-up every 2-3 years! If you’ve been putting it off, now’s the time. While you may be saying, “But I feel fine!” it’s still important to keep track of things like blood pressure, cholesterol, and vitamin deficiencies before designing your workout program.
5. Step away from the scale
The scale doesn’t always accurately reflect your workout progress. Because muscle weighs more than fat, you might be discouraged that you’re not dropping more pounds when, in reality, you’re toning up. To accurately measure your progress, break out the measuring tape every two weeks or so to see where you’re trimming inches from your waist, hips, and other target areas.
6. Plan a Holiday
If work has been stressful, remember this can harm your health and hinder your fitness goals. You owe it to yourself to take a “health” vacation. Whether that means booking a stay at a resort with hiking and biking, planning a yoga retreat, or trying out surfing on a beach vacation, make physical activity a priority on your next trip, and your mind will reap the benefit in the form of de-stressing.
