What does it mean to be ‘active'? Many adults and even children in our current culture are not getting the amount of exercise that they need to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a healthy body. Each day Americans spend thousands of hours and thousands of dollars on the internet and fast food.
While these things of themselves are not a bad thing, they can be harmful if indulged in excessively. For those of us who are trying to balance work, a social life, and family obligations, finding the time to work out and make time for exercise can be difficult. Luckily it doesn't take much to start making healthy, active choices on a daily basis.
Start Small
Fitness experts may recommend that you spend 30-40 minutes in a gym per day to achieve optimal physical fitness, they will also tell you that even exercising for 5 minutes a few times a day can make a difference. And if you can only find five minutes once a day, that is a start, and everyone has to start somewhere.
Obviously, your long term goals for an active lifestyle should include at least 30 minutes 3-4 days a week, but jumping into that type of schedule can feel overwhelming. Go on a short walk during your lunch break or jog in place for 5 minutes while you watch your tv show in the evening. Take the time to slowly develop and stick to a schedule that works for you.
Don't Give Up
Regardless of how many times you forget your workout or can't find the time to make it work on one day, don't give up. Each day is an opportunity for you to wake up and try again. Make little choices each day to improve your health, your level of activity, and make a commitment to making healthier choices.
Success is not dependent on setting huge goals and hitting them fast. Success comes from slowly and consistently creating habits that will eventually become second nature to you. And don't forget to enjoy the process. Making yourself miserable and depressed is counterproductive. Start small and don't give up. You can make this happen.
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