“Do the difficult things while they are easy, and do the great things while they are small. A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step.” This quote by Lao Tzu, a Chinese philosopher and writer, emphasises the need to initiate with a step, however small it may be. The same applies when you take a small step towards your fitness – whether you choose to climb the stairs, decide to walk those short distances, or eat healthy.
However, amidst hectic schedules and meeting deadlines, you may find it difficult to cope. According to an online study conducted by Bodybuilding.com, 73% of the people who had fitness goals as a part of their new year resolution, gave up before meeting their goals. The beginning of anything is always the toughest; the key is in not giving up.
Here are five useful tips that will help you stick to your exercise routines and healthy diet against all odds:
Do not hit the gym because others think you should; do it for yourself. There is nothing as transient as external motivation. Self-motivation will keep you going for years on end. Ask yourself the following questions, ‘Why do I need to be fit?’, ‘What will my body achieve by staying healthy?’ ‘How do I stay fit?’
Remember the need for you to stay healthy and create custom routines that suit you, the rest will follow.
Being healthy is not just about running or hitting the gym for hours, it is about taking baby steps. Know your limitations to avoid undue exertion that may wear you out or inflict muscle injury. Consult a qualified trainer if you decide to change your routine.
You will be nothing but disappointed and discouraged, if you believe that only working out would strengthen your immune system. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, published a study, which explicitly stated that, a combination of healthy eating and exercise is the preferred roadmap to a healthy heart. Striking a perfect balance between these two is a prerequisite for good health. What’s more, mixing various exercise forms such as cardio, aerobics, yoga with interesting food that keeps you energetic all day long will definitely keep it interesting for you.
Your friends are your extended family. Sometimes, what you can't, your friend's pep talk can. Find a friend whose fitness goals coincide with yours. Break the monotony of your workout sessions by getting them along; make the burn session a fun session with them. Plan activities such as cycling, hiking or walking with your significant other or children over the weekends to spread the awareness in your family.
Technology is a boon when it comes to the fitness domain. There are various mobile applications that you can download to keep a track of your workout sessions. You can measure your Body Mass Index, compare the results with your goals, and then work towards filling the gap.
Staying healthy is physically and mentally rewarding. With ICICI Lombard, it is fiscally rewarding as well! Our health insurance plans include a Wellness program that rewards you for your healthy habits. Your healthy behaviour will entitle you to our wellness points that can be redeemed later as per our redemption terms and conditions. #Dothedifficult, and get the beneficial!