(FAMILY FEATURES) — If getting a fresh start on a new year seems daunting, try tackling your get-healthy goals one step at a time. There is no easy path to transforming your lifestyle, but this is one time you should be able to see the results of your hard work.
To avoid feeling overwhelmed, tackle your new lifestyle a little at a time. Gradually incorporate smarter eating habits, such as switching out high-calorie beverages with lower-calorie, nutrient-rich replacements. Then, as you ease into a new exercise regimen, look for ways to get an extra boost with workout equipment that isn’t overly taxing on your joints and muscles, and get a leg up on the competition with proper footwear and workout supplements.
Slow and steady wins this race, so set yourself up for success in the new year with these ideas to put you one step closer to the healthy lifestyle you envision.
All You Have to Do Is Walk
Step into a healthy New Year with the Bowflex TreadClimber TC200. Combining the motions of a treadmill, stepper and elliptical, this premier walking machine is easy on the joints and burns up to 2.5 times the calories of a treadmill. Ideal for home use, the TC200 features an interactive LCD display that animates your progress. Bluetooth connectivity allows users to share data with the free TreadClimber app, which automatically syncs with MyFitnessPal, Apple Health Kit, Google Fit, Under Armour Record and Bowflex Connect.
A Delicious, Convenient Non-Dairy Alternative
Leading a healthy lifestyle doesn’t mean sacrificing taste for convenience. Shelf-Stable Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Breeze Almondmilk is smooth, creamy and made with California Blue Diamond almonds. It’s ideal for smaller households because it’s easily stored in your pantry until you’re ready to use it. Available in a four-cup container, it’s also perfect for cooking. You can pour it over cereal, create refreshing smoothies or drink it as a standalone beverage. Learn more at almondbreeze.com.
Supplement Your Goals
When diet and exercise alone aren’t enough, supplements such as protein and fish oil, can be effective in helping you achieve your New Year’s resolution. Whether you want to lose weight or gain muscle mass, there is a supplement out there to aid you in your pursuit of a toned body. These supplements, which should be approved by your health care provider before use, are available at local retailers such as grocery stores, pharmacies and specialty health and wellness stores.
The Right Shoes Can Make All the Difference
If your workout routine involves running, walking, sports or other gym equipment, the right footwear is a must. Injury caused by wearing inappropriate shoes can derail your fitness or weight loss goals, but investing in a proper shoe can help prevent foot and ankle damage while also allowing for a more comfortable workout. No matter your pursuit, there is a shoe that fits the need, including running shoes with built-in shock
absorbers, lightweight walking shoes, thick-soled high top basketball shoes or cross-training shoes, which can be utilized during a variety of workouts.
Tips for a Healthier Lifestyle
Getting in shape and leading a healthy lifestyle doesn’t happen overnight, it takes time, but these simple tips can help put you on the right path:
•Be patient. Starting a new fitness regime can be a challenge. There will be ups and downs, but remaining committed is key.
•Exercise on a regular basis. Regular physical activity not only helps you look and feel better, it can improve mood, increase quality of sleep and help you manage weight.
•Undergo an annual physical. To be sure your body is running smoothly, have your numbers, including blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and weight, checked regularly.
•Drink lots of water. Experts recommend 64 ounces of water a day to help replenish what you’ve lost throughout the day.
•Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Both fruits and veggies are loaded with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which help protect against chronic diseases.
•Go through your cabinets. Get rid of foods that are high in sodium, fat or sugar and look for low sodium, fat or sugar items instead.