In our attempt to become a better self, we often make resolutions to bring in the New Year. As the new school year gets underway, here are five ways for you to start and stick to your New Year’s resolution of getting healthy.
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1. Develop a Plan
-To start out on the right path, you need to ask yourself some pertinent questions first. Are you looking to lose weight, or just seeking to maintain a healthy lifestyle? Remember the healthiest way to lose weight is through diet and exercise, averaging up to two pounds per week. In doing this, you will ensure your long-term weight loss goals. If seeking to develop healthier habits overall, be sure to make small changes each day to ensure your new healthy lifestyle.
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2. Plan Your Meals
It is helpful to create a weekly menu, so you can eat your meals on a schedule instead of sporadically snacking throughout the day. This way, your body knows when to look forward to meals, and avoid the dreaded hunger pangs after your afternoon classes. Try to pick something with fiber for breakfast, such as oatmeal, that will satisfy you throughout the morning. If you are hungry before your lunch break, grab a piece of fruit as a snack. While having lunch, try to stay away from the fast food options the café provides. Instead, try choosing the salad bar, or a sandwich on wheat alongside carrots or fruit instead of chips or fries. Better yet, bring along leftovers from last night’s dinner, or prepare something the morning of. Preparing your own food allows you to avoid the hidden calories that could be used during preparations in the café.
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3. Commit to Working Out at least Three Days a Week
Schedule your workouts as you would a class or a meeting. Secondly, find a time that works for you. Whether you are best in the morning or evening, find time to work out and commit to it! Also, vary your exercises to alleviate boredom. Try various classes at your university fitness center to keep things fresh. Sneaking in exercise can be a fun way to get healthy as well! Try walking or biking to school instead of driving, or even incorporating a fun game of tennis or bowling with friends.
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4. Cheat, Cheat, Cheat!
By all means, don’t blow your diet out of the water by falling back into your old habits; however allow yourself a cheat day or meal on the weekend. Incorporating all aspects of food makes a healthier lifestyle easier and more diverse.
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5. Make a Pact with Your Friends
-Include friends on your new quest to become a healthier you. Hold each other accountable, and instead of meeting at a restaurant to hang out, try meeting at a new gym class or an outdoor market instead!