A Practical Guide to Setting Your Goals For a Healthy Lifestyle

Starting out on any project is hard, have you ever wondered or figured out why?

For some of us it's really easy to START something new, but the problem is sometimes we don't FINISH it. It is a well-known fact that many of us are able to start an activity but as we move along with it, we often find ourselves taking a different course. Some say it is basic human nature that we often put off today what we can do tomorrow. The fact is this; we should not procrastinate when it comes to our health, fitness, and nutrition.

The best way to keep yourself on track is to be certain that your goals are realizable, attainable and realistic. Don't set yourself up for failure before you even begin by setting unrealistic goals. I beg you not to do that to yourself. First, identify your health, fitness, and nutritional needs, and after doing so, set your goals right away. If you are contemplating starting a fitness program, I commend you. If you are currently exercising or have had difficulty in the past reaching your fitness goals you would greatly increase your chances of success by consulting with a fitness professional.

In order to succeed you must have the right drive. Get the motivation you need; tell your family, tell your friends that you've decided to live a healthy lifestyle and they will make it a point to encourage you toward your goal. Who knows, chances are you may find an exercise partner out of the deal.

I haven't used the word diet yet but dieting doesn't necessarily mean that you have to skip meals or eat tasteless foods. When grocery shopping put healthy foods items like fruits, vegetables and lean meats in your cart and keep away from foods that are processed, bleached or have coloring added (i.e. Red #4, Yellow #5, etc). By choosing healthy food items and eating them in portion controlled amounts spread out over 4-6 times a day you are on track to reaching your goal.

So you see that health, fitness, and diet are all intertwined. If any one of the three is absent, you can't achieve your goal.

If you need guidance on setting your goals for a healthy lifestyle and deciding what exercises or what nutritious foods (and when) you should be eating, please contact a fitness professional. As always I recommend that you first consult with your doctor before starting any exercise program.