Finding the best strategy that will get you in shape is not always an easy task. Many of us try out different approaches and techniques until managing to find those that actually work. So, there isn’t a recipe that works for all of us just as well. However, there is aa number of goals you need to seriously consider if you truly want to enjoy a fitter body shape.
What goals are we talking about? Check the list presented below and make plans on how to include these goals in your fitness plan, as they will take you to success. Each of them will take you one step closer to a better and fitter version of you, one that looks and feels great as well.
- Make stretching part of your daily routine
Stretching is more important than you may think. It relieves tension from the body, strengthens your muscles, and helps you avoid unwanted injuries. In the morning, we have the tendency to stretch so that we increase our body’s mobility after a long night. At the office, it is recommended to stretch to relieve tension build by sitting down for extended periods. It is also great to stretch before working out, to prepare your muscles, and after working out, to help them relax and avoid pain and discomfort.
2. Try to find a partner for your workout sessions
If you have a hard time staying motivated and sticking to the plans you made, a friend can help you out. Canceling will be much harder when you know that you’ll be working out with someone else. Also, your friend will hold you accountable for all the commitments you made, regarding the set goals. Not to mention that you’ll motivate each other, which will lead to better performances.
3. Enjoy an activity that calms you down once a week
Sometimes, we need something else than the intense training sessions at the gym. We need to relax and calm down so that we can start the week with a fresh mood. Luckily, there are active things you can do that will also calm you down. So, once a week, opt for a yoga class instead of a fitness one. Or go for a walk in a green park, while listening to your favorite music. Even meditation is a good option, as it has a great impact on your mind’s health.
4. Try a new workout every month
The secret to getting in shape quicker is to change your workout routine periodically. Once your body will get used to the routine, it will stop burning calories that effectively. Plus, it will get boring for you. The solution lies in trying a different type of workout every month. Try a new class available at your gym, try a dance class, go for a job, or try any other activity that you might enjoy.
5. Drink a sufficient amount of water every single day
Staying hydrated is a must, especially if you’re looking to lose weight and achieve a better body shape. Besides helping your body remove toxins and ensuring proper functionality of every organ, proper water intake will also help your body. A lack of water during workouts will lead to fatigue and sore muscles. You will also overheat faster and won’t perform at your best.
6. Keep a log with your fitness progresses
One of the best ways to stay motivated and find your motivation when you feel it’s gone is with the help of a fitness log. Keeping track of your progress is certainly a good way to make sure you won’t stray from your plan. At the same time, you’ll be able to tell when something doesn’t work as expected, so you can make adequate changes. So, using a fitness tracker and writing down each day’s progress will let you know where you stand. As a tip, it would be more recommended to measure yourself, rather than weighing your body.
7. Make sure you sleep enough at night
Losing sleep can have a negative impact on your weight. When you are tired, you’ll feel cravings for unhealthy food more often, to compensate for your body’s lack of energy. Also, when you don’t get enough sleep at night, you deny your body its change to regenerate and repair itself. At the same time, your muscles grow and rebuild themselves during sleep, so you need 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night. It will benefit your body shape, weight, and overall health as well.
8. Create a calendar with planned workout sessions
It is easier to stick to a plan when you have everything scheduled in advance. You normally don’t cancel a meeting once you scheduled it, don’t you? So, set a date for each of your workout sessions and make sure you position the calendar somewhere where you can see it. This way, you create a state of mind that knows what to expect and is readier to handle the coming challenge.
9. Choose to walk than drive to certain locations
For as much as it is possible, avoid driving your car, choosing to walk instead. If your work is not that far away, try walking to work instead of commuting with a vehicle. Apply the same rule when you go out for a coffee, shop around, or get other things done.
10. Take the stairs instead of the elevator
This is a challenge you should seriously consider. Whenever you have the opportunity, opt for going up the stairs instead of taking the elevator. This mere habit can do a lot for your body shape and weight.
11. Pay attention to your diet
Diet has a large impact on our fitness and weight. The main idea is to ditch sugar and eat as healthy and balanced as possible. Choosing high-quality calories, which comes from quality foods, will improve your state of health and accelerate your journey to a fitter body. So, avoid unhealthy foods and snacks, and go for those that truly nourish your body.
12. Be grateful at the end of the day
Practicing gratitude at the end of each day can have an amazing impact on your mind. No matter how small the goal you reached is, it is there. Be grateful for what you have and for everything you have accomplished. Even if it’s just about going to the gym, pushing 5 minutes more on the treadmill, enjoying a healthy salad, and simply being healthy. You will feel much better and happier with yourself.