Spring Forward, Literally

Spring officially began this weekend. It is a good time of year to check in with your health goals. If you started the year off with a resolution to make a few changes, how is it going? I think I’ve been trying to get back into a consistent exercise routine for a good 3 or 4 years now. I am sure I am not alone in that.  What makes a difference for you in keeping to a new routine? Whether you’re trying to cut back on your portion sizes, eat more veggies, or move your body more, it can be hard to get the momentum going. For me, support and encouragement make a huge difference. So often one of the best things that can happen is someone offers you support. A small statement of encouragement can go a long way in keeping you motivated. This time of year in Nebraska, seeing a bit of sunshine can be just what we need to get us up and moving.

I swear my couch calls my name. Some days the couch wins and other days, I win. The last two months I have become more consistent at incorporating physical activity into my day. Often times I think we expect too much from ourselves and all at once. We set out to “be active every day,” but if we haven’t been active every day since our childhood, we are not likely to succeed. I consistently talk about being realistic with yourself when it comes to making lifestyle changes. Understand that it is perfectly acceptable to start off small with your goals.

Motivation has a tendency to come and go, but having a support system makes it a little easier to follow through even when you’re hearing the couch call your name. Use this change in season to focus on what you can do TODAY, and not what you’ve done or failed to do in the past.

Ways to Build Support & Activity into Your Life

Find a friend, coworker, or neighbor to be active with. Schedule a consistent time to meet, so you’re held accountable.

Attend a fitness class at a local gym or health club. Make friends in the class so you’re more likely to enjoy it and come back.

Tell your family and/or coworkers about your goals and ask them to check in on you.

Start an office walking club and have a step competition to see who can accumulate the most steps in a day, week, or month. Here are a few ways to organize a competition or keep yourself on track:

Walk Nebraska – Track your steps across Nebraska trails.

ActivateOmaha Walk Zip Win Contest – Compete against other zip codes and win prizes.

 

Know that the staff of NutritionKnowHow are part of your support team! Let us know what we can do to keep you moving and eating right.