Got Cabin Fever? Tips to Avoid Getting Off Track

The temperature is dropping fast- winter is finally here! You are finding it harder to get outside for a run and the roads may not be cleared in time for a morning trip to the gym. Possibly worst than that, a Snow Day has been issued and now you are stuck in the house.

It will be tempting to declare the day a Cheat Day! Lounging around the house with hot chocolate, seasonal desserts, and movies don’t sound like a bad idea. Before you plop down on the couch consider these helpful tips so you won’t completely sideline your health!

Fit in Fitness- A 30 minute workout in your living room can keep you on track and help balance out any of those additional splurges you may find yourself enjoying.  Check out the circuit below and do at a moderate intensity for a great workout option! 

Watch your trips to the kitchen- Although today may be your cheat day, don’t go overboard. Limit your sweets to 1-2 servings and keep in mind portion sizes. If you are the one slaving over the stove look for healthy alternative recipes for the cakes, cookies, and pies. Keep this tiny secret between us and no one will notice the difference! Check these easy-to-do swaps for ideas! 

Don’t stop drinking your water- Along with keeping you feeling full, it is a great natural detox to keep your body clean of anything the body doesn't need. Many times your mind confuses hunger with dehydration. Stay well hydrated and keep those cravings to a minimum.  In addition, drinking at least 16 ounces of chilled water when you wake up can boost your metabolism by 24% in the morning.

Last but not least (and most importantly) ENJOY! Take in the day as YOUR day. Avoid feeling guilty on your indulges. Savor the taste, enjoy resting, and get back at it tomorrow. It wouldn't be a true cheat day without a cookie or two.

Eat Healthy. Train Smart. Look Great!

Brittany L.

You've Joined a Gym! Now What?

You have finally made the decision to get fit. Found the time in your hectic schedule, purchased those new gym shoes, and redacted a few things here and there from your grocery list. You have even joined a health club!

But what are you STILL doing wrong in search for that summer body that you have always wanted?

The two biggest mistakes that people make when they join a health club are:

#1 Failure to Plan

#2 Failure to Get Help Early

Make a Plan

Ask yourself: What do I want to achieve by working out? What is my motivation?

When beginning a new workout regiment we need to systematically log these answers and make sure we are meeting these goals within a realistic time frame. Resources at your gym are able to help you outline all you are looking to achieve and provide tools to track your progress, also known as an assessment. Look to them to answer any questions you have about what are healthy ways to reach these goals including weight loss, bulking up, or maintaining good health.

Another great way to track progress: TAKE A BEFORE PICTURE. In as little as 4-weeks people are able to see changes to their bodies.

Get Help from a Personal Trainer
Too often we see people coming into the gym looking confused, dazed and overwhelmed.  Even the most frequent gym rats misuse equipment or are inefficiently utilizing the time spent on machines.

Seek out personal trainers to guide you step-by-step on what workouts are best for you and what is proper technique for each. They are there to ensure safety throughout the gym, maximize your productivity, and put variety in your workout routine. Personal trainers  can also be a used as a support system and a way to keep you accountable. Setting scheduled training sessions will motivate you  to workout even on the days you are dragging.

Many think that ONLY athletes need training. MYTH! We have a saying that even personal trainers need personal training. It is a valuable tool that many don’t take advantage of.

Realize that the journey to reaching these goals will not be easy; it takes determination, support of family and/or friends, and the will to continue after adversity. It is a marathon, not a sprint. The key to long term success are within these two simple lifestyle rules that can be applied to your health and wellness.

Set a Plan. Seek Help. See Results.

Brittany L.