When it comes to getting and staying in shape, how you do things is just as important as what it is you do. It’s kind of like baking a cake. While it is important to have all of the ingredients necessary, from flour to sugar to eggs, if you don’t put them in the right order, you’re going to end up with a sloppy, not-very-tasty mess. Well, the same is true when it comes to fitness success.
So, first and foremost, you want to feed your body foods that help support an active lifestyle. This includes lean meats and proteins, fruits, veggies, and lots of water. After all, if you live solely on junk food and take-away, you’re going to make it that much harder to reach your fitness goals. This is why eating healthy and nutritious food is the foundation of a good fitness plan.
Your next step is to increase your level of activity in a way that is fun, yet challenging. You must enjoy the activities that you do or you won’t keep them up, and they need to really challenge your muscles and cardiovascular system if you want to experience gains.
This may require that you think outside the box, considering options beyond the treadmill and elliptical. Maybe you enjoy hiking or rock climbing? Or, perhaps the idea of salsa dancing or CrossFit make you smile? Come up with as many options as you can so you have a wide variety of choices no matter what your mood.
Now that you have the proper food and cardiovascular activities, it is time to hit the weights. This will make you look and feel more trim and tone, as well as increasing your metabolism so you burn more calories while even at rest. Aim for 2-4 strength training sessions a week for the best results.
There you have it, your recipe for fitness success. Good food plus cardio plus weights equals a trim and healthy body!
