Is 2018 going to be your year?
Of course it is. Although we highly suggest that you always try your best to live a healthy lifestyle, January 1st can often provide that fresh start that so many of us desire. Think of it like a starting point to track your results and get rid of those unhealthy habits for good. If you’re planning to make some changes to your lifestyle by focusing on weight loss, here are some of the best New Year’s resolutions that you could try.
1. Quit Smoking
Okay, you caught us. Quitting smoking doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll lose weight. But, it is an extremely unhealthy habit that you should axe at once. There are so many negative health concerns that are associated with smoking cigarettes, it’s just not worth it to risk your health.
If you’re planning to live a healthier lifestyle this year to lose weight, lose the cigarettes too. That way, you can really enjoy the benefits of living a fresh and healthy lifestyle.
2. Drink More Water
Your body needs water to survive and function properly. Two of the most noticeable side effects from not drinking enough water every day is weight gain and the inability to lose weight.
Drinking enough water everyday can help you feel fuller, especially in between meals. When you feel hungry, it’s recommended that you drink one glass of water roughly 30 minutes before eating. Chances are, you’ll eat smaller portions, or the hunger will subside completely.
3. Walk Every Day
Walking is a great low-impact exercise. Along with your regular gym routine, walking for 20-30 minutes every day can really help you boost those weight loss results. Not to mention that it provides you with a chance to unwind and process your thoughts. A nice evening walk can prove to be extremely relaxing.
Or, you can take this time to get some errands done. When you go to the grocery store, do two to three laps around the entire store before you actually begin to shop. You’ll burn more calories, and have a chance to scope out the best deals!
4. Start a New Hobby
Remember those unhealthy habits that used to be a part of your lifestyle? Like sitting on the couch for hours and eating chips? Or going out for dinner regularly, dining on high-calorie meals and sugary alcoholic drinks? Well, it’s time to fill your new free time with something positive.
Why not take up a hobby? Here are a few you could take up this new year:
- Hiking
- Yoga
- Swimming
- Kick boxing
- Archery
- Martial arts
- Playing an instrument
Which hobby are you going to take up?
5. How Do You Take Your Coffee?
If you drink your coffee or tea fully-loaded with milk, heavy cream, sugar or artificial sweeteners, it may be time to rethink your choices. Especially if that coffee just so happens to be a sugary latte. A great alternative is to drink your tea and coffee black.
If drinking black tea or coffee just isn’t for you, try boiling some lemon, mint and ginger for a tasty warm drink.
6. Eliminate Pop and Juice
Most brands of pop and juice are filled with unhealthy preservatives, additives, and tons of sugar. Eliminating these altogether can really help boost your weight loss results. Instead, drink water or fruit-infused water.
7. No More Fast Food
If you’re serious about losing weight, it’s time to cut the fast food. This includes eating out at restaurants too. The food just isn’t geared towards being healthy. Most often, it’s filled with salt, sugar, and preservatives, and usually cooked in oil or deep fried.
Don’t fall for the cheap prices and convenience. Take the time to properly grocery shop and prepare your own meals this new year.
8. Try New Things
Don’t knock it ‘til you try it.
That funky looking vegetable in the produce aisle? It could be the perfect alternative for pasta or French fries. A different kind of oil than olive? It could help you cook your meals in a healthier way. When you hear about a healthy alternative that you’ve never tried before, give it a shot. Who knows, you might just find your new favourite healthy dish in 2018.
The same goes for your workout routine. Unless you switch it up, your body can adapt to your regular workout, rendering it less effective. The best way to keep your body on its toes (pun intended) is to try new exercises and implement them randomly. That scary looking machine at the gym? Ask one of the gym associates to help you. See somebody doing an exercise you aren’t familiar with? Ask them what it’s called. It’s never too late to try something new.
Looking for more weight loss tips and tricks? Visit the SmartShape™ Weight Loss Centre blog section!
What will your New Year’s Resolution be?