Often, people think that dramatically overhauling their diet and exercise regime is the best way to achieve results. But sometimes it really is the small things that make the biggest difference.
If you think about it, it is not easy to maintain a restrictive diet that eliminates whole food groups – yes, in the short term you will undoubtedly lose weight – but is it a long-term, sustainable, lifestyle change? The same with exercise, if you have not really exercised before, is it realistic to assume that you will stick to training at a high intensity seven days per week?
Here’s a few small changes that you can make to your everyday life that will get you on your way to achieving better results:
1. Eat more – many people assume that the less they eat, the more weight they will lose. However, by increasing the frequency of your meals (not necessarily the portion sizes) means that you are less likely to be hungry and binge on junk food. By preparing your meals and snacks ahead means that you will stay in control of your food.
2. Drink more – we have already written about the importance of hydration on our blog. Increasing your water intake is a great way to stay hydrated, flush out toxins, improve skin tone and keep energy levels up.
3. Move more – if you work in a fairly sedentary job, then getting up at regular intervals will help with your circulation and posture. Having regular breaks and moving around will help with energy levels. Try doing 10 press ups, 10 squats and 10 lunges every hour to wake your body up!
4. Sleep – it is not always easy to fit in 8 hours sleep a night, but by going to bed that bit earlier to try and get a good night’s sleep can have a positive impact on your mental state. If you are exercising and eating well, better sleep is sure to follow.
5. Get lifting – if you don’t already use weights as part of your training regime, then incorporating them into your fitness routine can help boost metabolism, improve bone density and build muscles, giving you a toned and defined look.
