Feel Great in 2012: New Year’s Resolution Must-Do Tips!

By Valerie Merriweather

Have you made your 2012 health and fitness goals yet? Start your New Year off right by using the BALANCE acrostic I developed.

B — Begin. Begin your program! As obvious as that sounds, starting an exercise program is half the battle. Remember, there’s always a reason to put it off; don’t do it!

A — Accept. Accept the fact that your life is different. If you have increased work responsibilities, family demands, and long commutes, you’ll have to do a workout that fits your life and gets you moving on a regular basis. This may mean working out early in the morning or during your lunch break at work.

L — Learn. Learn creative ways to incorporate more activity into your day. Learn proper form to improve your workouts and enrich your daily life. Proper form will prevent future injury — a necessity as you age!

A — Adjust. Adjust your workouts so you’re not doing the same thing over and over. Your body needs a new challenge every 4–12 weeks, depending on your fitness goals and schedule.

N — Non-negotiable. Exercise has to be non-negotiable. Studies show that regular exercise reduces stress, prevents insomnia, and increases your metabolism. Look for creative ways to exercise — play with the kids for 30 minutes, jump rope for 15 minutes. Everything you do makes a difference!

C — Challenge. Challenge yourself on a regular basis. Start a new class or an activity that you’ve always wanted to try. Challenge yourself physically and you’ll benefit mentally; studies prove that exercise is a great brain workout!

E — Expectation. Expect great things! If you start off by thinking of the rewards of a healthier lifestyle, your motivation will improve and you’ll see the results in your clothes, the scale, and your overall attitude.

[Valerie Merriweather, MHA, ACE, NASM is Chief Executive Officer of Fitwell Training Solutions, a personal training and wellness company specializing in the health and fitness needs of families. She lives on Playford Lane in the Forest Knolls community. Valerie can be reached at www.fitwellsolutions.com.] ■