Written by Mary Lou Schell, PhD: Fitness and Wellness Coach, Director & Educator for 20+ Years and Founder of MB Fit Studio in Solana Beach.
A new year often signifies a fresh start for many people. For some, this means setting health goals, such as losing weight, following a healthier diet, and starting an exercise routine.
However, more often than not, the health and wellness New Year resolutions chosen are highly restrictive and unsustainable, leading most people to break their resolutions within a few weeks.
Here are 3 New Year resolutions that you can actually keep:
- Sit Less & Move More
Whether it’s due to having a sedentary job or simply being inactive, many people sit more than they should.
Making a resolution to sit less is an easy and attainable resolution that can be tailored to fit your lifestyle.
If sitting, make a resolution to go for a 15-minute walk at lunch or to get up and walk for 5 minutes every hour.
- Get More Quality Sleep
Sleep deprivation can lead to serious consequences. For instance, lack of sleep may increase your risk of weight gain, heart disease, and depression.
Decreasing screen time before bed, reducing light pollution in your bedroom, cutting back on caffeine, and getting to bed at a reasonable hour are some simple ways to improve sleep hygiene.
- Find a Physical Activity That You Enjoy
To get started, choose an activity based on enjoyment and whether it fits into your schedule.
For example, taking a half-hour walk, jog, or bike ride before work, or a 45-minute group fitness class that’s on your way home. These are simple and sustainable exercise resolutions.
Then, set an attainable goal.
Making a more realistic goal can enhance the chances of making your new routine last, especially if you’re new to working out.
This New Year, try out a few of these resolutions to help make this year - and the years that follow- the healthiest and happiest possible.
About The Author:
Mary Lou has over two decades of expertise as a Fitness and Wellness Coach, Director and Educator, catering to both English and Spanish-speaking clientele. Her proficiency spans a comprehensive range of disciplines, including Corrective Exercise, Personal Training, Group Fitness, Pilates, and Sports Conditioning. Holding a Bachelor's in Health Science/Biology from Mount St. Mary's College, a Master's in Biomechanics and Physiotherapy, and a PhD in Human Performance & Biomechanics from the University of California, San Diego, Mary Lou is well-qualified with certifications from ACE, AFAA, NASM, TRX, and EFI Sports Medicine.
As the founder of MB Fit Studio located in Solana Beach, California, Mary Lou is dedicated to developing programs aimed at enhancing longevity and fostering an active, pain-free lifestyle for her clients, correcting muscle imbalances and educating her clients on body awareness and pain management, to enhance mobility and activity levels. Her fervent enthusiasm and passion for exercise, health, and education not only exemplifies her commitment, but also, infuses her community and beyond with a distinctly positive energy. Mary Lou's rigorous formal training has distinguished her as a leader in the fitness industry.