Exercise 

A new year can mean a new you! Start the year out right with an exercise plan and goals that will be easy for you to stick with.       

• Start small with an easier workout for a couple of weeks to build the habit.
  
  

• Work on developing the habit first instead of buying all of the expensive equipment. Equipment won’t create a habit of exercising; only you can.
  
  

• Make a time commitment with when you will exercise and what days of the week you will and stick with it. If you can’t do every day, try three times a week and build your routine from there.
  
  

• Have fun while exercising! There are numerous options such as going to the gym, videos, dance classes, weights, and running. Fitness centers offer a range of programs that may suit your taste. Get a friend to join you, it’s more fun when you add a social aspect to exercise.
  
  

• Working out at the beginning or end of your day is often the best time. Trying to work out during your lunch hour might be too easy to skip if work demands start mounting.
  
  

• Don’t get discouraged if your weight doesn’t go down. Increase in muscle can offset decreases in fat so the number doesn’t change even if your body does. Track other numbers instead such as laps, sit ups, push ups, miles to show the increase in strength and endurance.
  
  

• Exercise for yourself. You’ll gain energy, be healthier, have a good time and feel great. That will help keep you going even when the results are slow. 

For more information please go to www.uhs.net.