Common Sense for Long Term Success

by Lauren Walker

There’s a lot of information and misinformation when it comes to eating and exercise. Let’s take the common sense approach for long term success.

The following are some strategies you can use to help yourself.

Write it down.

The first step to changing your eating habits is to first become aware of what you’re eating. Accountability is key. Make a journal of your eating habits. Take note of when you ate and how you felt afterwards.

Educate Yourself.

Read the ingredients in your food. I was taught, “If you can’t pronounce the ingredients, don’t eat it.” It’s a pretty simple lesson to learn, when you take the time.

Make small changes.

You can’t change years worth of bad habits in one fell swoop. After becoming more aware of what you’re eating, you must start making small changes. Instead of drinking three cans of pop a day, have two and substitute carbonated water for the third. This is doable for most people. Instead of having two cookies, substitute an apple instead. Little things add up.

Start Exercise in small doses.

Your energy levels should start to improve when you consume better quality food. Once again, adding just 20 minutes of movement a day is doable for most people. It doesn’t even have to be done all at once. When your energy improves, you can gradually start to increase your movement.

Making small, consistent changes is the key to a better eating plan. It is called a “lifestyle” for a reason because health and wellness is a lifetime commitment. It takes consistent effort and practice over a long period. When the goal is long term success, common sense is the best approach.

All Fit All Ages Gym is located in the Food Basics plaza. Call 289-356-2140 for your free assessment.