While many people start the year on a promising note by creating a membership at the gym, it’s easy to lose track of goals as time moves further into the year. Life can get a little busy due to other obligations and responsibilities, placing your fitness goals on hold for a while.
Fortunately, there are ways to stay active throughout the year so that you can maintain year-round fitness when commuting to the gym isn’t in the cards.
Incorporate More Protein
More often than not, some believe that being fit is mostly about working out for long hours and lifting heavy weights. While physical activity and weight training are fundamentals in fitness, your approach to nutrition should sit at the core of your regimen.
More specifically, you should prioritize your protein intake. A balanced meal with protein can make a difference in muscle growth and recovery so that you can train for longer, mitigating burnout.
Don’t Neglect Hydration
As one of the most vital tips on this list, drinking water provides extraordinary benefits to your body that translate into your overall health. Whether you opt for a gallon a day or stick to the standard 64 ounces, consuming adequate water hydrates your skin and energizes your body.
This jolt of energy may be a valuable contribution to increasing motivation so that you can weave a short workout into your day.
Create Healthy Habits
There are plenty of healthy habits to incorporate into your established routine that impact your overall well-being. For example, consider going to bed 15 minutes earlier. While the amount of time seems minimal, it can help you feel refreshed in the morning while relieving stress.
Another healthy habit of trying is opting to take the stairs instead of the elevator since it helps you get those extra steps in and promotes blood flow. If you live near the workplace, consider walking or bicycling to the office to get a quick workout before starting your workday.
Mix It Up
Most people tend to stick to what they know or do best. For example, runners will likely prefer running a 5k instead of trying strength training, while those interested in weight lifting do their best to avoid any form of cardio.
While there’s nothing wrong with performing your preferred form of physical activity, you miss out on opportunities to improve your health if you only stick to one.
Additionally, trying something new can breathe new life into your fitness routine, especially if you’ve plateaued in progress.
Think Long Term
Getting into shape for the summer is a common trend. However, many tend to reach their goal and think the journey is complete! While you may not have to work out as intensely as you did during the initial fitness venture, it helps to maintain a degree of activity during off-seasons.
For instance, you can remain active even during the colder months. Just make sure to read up on a few safety tips to help facilitate outdoor exercise in the winter.
While keeping up with a fitness regimen requires dedication and consistency, there are ways to stay active throughout the year without spending long hours at the gym. You can maintain your desired fitness level year round with a few minor changes and healthy habits.
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