Yahoo Lifestyle Get Fit And Stay Fit
Q:
I’ve tried to get fit and lose weight so many times; how can I be sure this time will be different? —Kathy Brogen, Mount Gambier, SA
A:
Because this time, you’ll let your lifestyle lead, says Prevention fitness expert Donna Aston. It’s important to acknowledge that your body is a mirror image of your lifestyle. If your previous goal has been to reach a weight of 60 kg and you always get stuck and give up at 65 kg, it’s likely that you were living the lifestyle of a 65 kg person. If you start eating and exercising like a 60 kg person, your body will have no choice but to follow you there. Lifestyle change need not be overwhelming; three steps can help:
1. Make a list of what you perceive as the top 10 lifestyle habits of the person you want to be
This list might include committing to regular exercise, preparing healthy food, getting good-quality sleep and taking a nutritious lunch to work every day. Integrate each new habit into your week; higher energy and confidence will kick in, and your body will comply. You’ll see it when you believe it!
2. Calculate the kilojoule intake of a woman at your goal weight
using our Daily Kilojoule Calculator. This figure varies depending on your height and age, but it gives you a guide with which to work. Eating healthily for your goal weight, walking 30 minutes a day and strength-training two or three times a week guarantees change. As your body catches up to your lifestyle, you’ll have more strength and energy to remain focused.
3. Look at past negative experiences as a learning curve
They were simply the trial runs that helped you get to where you are now: with a 60 kg mindset and a readiness to create change. Identify energy-burning activities you enjoy, such as cycling, kayaking, beach volleyball or soccer in the park, and perhaps hook up with a friend or personal trainer to sustain your motivation. Remember, if attaining fitness and losing weight were easy, everyone would be in shape. It does require focus and commitment, but the rewards are priceless.
Donna Aston is a fitness expert and trainer (donnaaston.com).
