This year, whether you are looking to lose a little or a lot of weight, build muscle or be more defined, here are some important tips for your journey.
1. There is no secret.
This is probably what people least want to hear, but it's the truth. There is no simple secret to getting the body you want. There is no single thing that will change your body. It has to be a combination of all of the components of overall wellness; diet, fitness, and lifestyle.
2. When it comes to workouts, more isn't always better.
In fact, too many workouts can lead to overeating thanks to the appetite you work up, working out! Plus, working out at high intensities, without enough rest can lead to overtraining, which can make it even harder to lose weight.
3. You don't need to feel like you're going to pass out after every workout.
Strive for variety in your workouts. Covering all elements of fitness; cardiovascular, strength and endurance training, agility, stretch, balance and recovery. Mix it up, not only will it keep your body guessing as well as healthy, the variety will keep your brain motivated!
4. You can't ignore your diet.
If you are looking to lose weight, you need to be in a caloric deficit. In other words, eating less than you're burning. Plain and simple.
5. Changing your diet is HARD.
More often than not, we use eating as a TREAT or COMFORT rather than an opportunity to refuel and nourish our bodies. Dialing in nutrition is not easy. It may become clear that food is not just fuel but used to soothe deep-down, uncomfortable feelings.
Exercise is a great alternative to help deal with feelings. In addition, talking to friends and family, more self-care, and hugging your pets are also all good outlets. Learning to cook healthy meals can also be surprisingly therapeutic. Spending time making your food can help you feel more connected to it, while also allowing you to be more aware of how much and what you are putting into your body.
6. Don't give up the foods you love.
Cutting your favorite foods out of your diet will only make you miserable and can lead to cravings. Instead, focus on eating your favorite things in moderation.
Life is too short to stop baking if you love it or to avoid wine night with your friends. Learning how to have just one cookie, a few pieces of cheese, or two glasses of wine can be a game-changer.
8. Perfection is the enemy of progress.
One mistake in your healthy eating plan does mean you have to throw in the towel.
In reality, perfection is not required. And pressuring yourself to be perfect inevitably leads to self-sabotage. By facing diet trip-ups and skipped workouts with self-compassion, you will be able to accept yourself as not perfect-just doing your best.
9. Take progress pictures, you'll be happy you did it later.
Pictures illustrate how far you’ve come both physically and emotionally. It's hard to observe changes in your own body over time, and many changes are not reflected on the scale or via girth measurements. Smile, say “CHEESE”! You won’t regret it.
10. Get advice from an Expert.
The best way to achieve your goals in 2021, is to consult with an expert. Fitness, Nutrition, Life and Mental Wellness coaches are available to help you. They have the knowledge and expertise to be the healthiest you’ve ever been!
Contact personaltraining@heavensacademy.com to find your personal expert this year!