Summer is almost here. That means shorts, tank tops, bathing suits and bikinis. These clothes provoke a wide range of feelings. For those who are in great shape, all those feelings are positive. However, with only 10% of the population in the United States regularly working out, an overwhelming majority of us are going to have negative feelings regarding the upcoming season and the clothing associated with it. So what can be done in a few short weeks? Can you lose weight? Can you get healthy? The answer is yes!
Number one, do not be overwhelmed or discouraged. Exercise can be an intimidating thing to think about. You may associate it with gyms, aerobics, body builders, yoga or any number of things that you are not comfortable with or feel that you can do at this time. But don’t let that keep you from doing anything at all. Keep it simple and find something you enjoy.
Most adults say that the reason they do not exercise is because they don’t have the time, but a little bit of exercise can go a long way. Don’t think that because you only have a few minutes, it’s not worth it to do anything. Those few minutes can add up over the course of a year, and even more so, over your lifetime. Ten minutes a day means 60 hours a year, or two and a half days. Ten minutes over 25 years is equal to 63 days. Just a few minutes each day can make a big difference, so don’t let time be an excuse anymore.
Exercise with someone. You are much less likely to skip out on your workout if you are planning to meet and workout with someone else. Keep each other accountable.
If you are already working out and not satisfied with the results you are seeing, increase the intensity of the workout. Your body will be forced to work harder and burn more calories, and the results will show. Another option is to increase the repetitions when you are lifting weights. This is a technique that body builders often use. Decrease the amount of weight, and increasing the number of repetitions.
Most importantly, don’t try to get in shape just for the summer, get in shape for you and for your health. Changes won’t happen over night, but persevere. You will have a longer and better quality of life if you exercise and are getting the nutrition you need. I challenge you to begin today, workout for 10 minutes. You won’t regret it.
Gina Clark writes on nutrition and fitness. Click here for more tips to improve the quality of your life.