Creative Ways to Get Fit During Spring
Article by: Paige Johnson
Spring always seems to come at the perfect time -- right when the winter blues start to become unbearable. If you are like most people, you spent most of the winter months tucked away indoors leading a sedentary life. Fortunately spring presents a time where you can shed your cocoon and get active by starting a new diet and exercise routine! Now you can really become creative with your workout routines, instead of pounding away at the treadmill. Here are a few fun and creative ways you can get fit this spring and achieve the body of your dreams!
Why is healthy diet so important?
It’s been said time and time before: true fitness results are made in the kitchen, not the gym. All of your physical activity will go to waste if you don’t back it up with a nutrient rich, well-balanced diet. Fueling your body with whole foods will not only give you the physique you desire, it will also boost your mental health! A diet that is packed full of added sugars and processed food not only makes you tired and sluggish, it also increases the risk of having major health issues such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity.
Instead of eating foods with little to no nutritional value, opt for a more plant-based diet and eat green, leafy vegetables like kale and Swiss chard, fruit, lean proteins such as beans and nuts, and whole grains like quinoa and brown rice. Not only will your energy levels begin to increase, you will also combat mental health issues like depression and low self esteem. Your confidence will build tremendously as you realize you have control over what you put into your body and the results will be nothing short of amazing. As the saying goes, “you are what you eat” so be sure to treat your body well and fill up on the good stuff.
Good nutrition is also hugely beneficial to those who suffer from chronic pain and even those who are trying to overcome a drug addiction. In many cases, chronic pain stems from chronic inflammation, which happens when the immune system attacks healthy tissue, mistaking it for harmful pathogens. Nearly 100 million people suffer from chronic pain, however that pain can be reduced by eating an anti-inflammatory diet. This type of diet includes fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats such as olive oil and lean meats. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and foods high in sugar because they lead to painful flare ups. Those overcoming addiction should eat a similar diet to aid in a successful healing and recovery process.
How to make exercise fun:
The number one problem people face when it comes to exercise is they get bored with their routine. Boredom not only makes you want to stray away from exercise, it also damages your chances of seeing the results you really want. In order to stay on track, you must find creative ways to stay active! Some fun ways to stay in shape would be to take your dog for a jog or walk around the block daily. If you really have a knack for furry friends, offer a dog walking service to your neighbors for a small fee. Not only is this a great way to get in some exercise, you’ll also be able to bring in some extra cash! Family sport nights are also a great way to get active. Once a week gather your family in the back yard for a competitive game of flag football! Kill two birds with one stone by exercising and creating memories with the people you love the most. Yoga is another excellent way to spice up your fitness routine. Visit a local yoga studio for a class or two with a friend. Many studios offer a variety of classes to choose from (think power Vinyasa Flow yoga, Intermediate Hatha yoga, or sculpt yoga), and this is a great way to sweat to burn calories, stretch and tone the body.
Great ways to stay active are all around you as long as you keep your mind open! Stay active, eat a healthy diet, and most of all, have fun!
