I was recently at our local Turkey Trot in Double Oak. More than 650 people were in attendance! Whether you were there to walk your dog, push your stroller or run your best time, the positive energy was contagious!
As we head toward the New Year, so many people will resolve to eat better and move their bodies more. But we all know how such resolutions usually turn out.
What do you say we change our focus, so we can experience better results in 2013? Let’s resolve to find energy and make healthy choices.
I heard a saying the other day that really resonated with me. “You are one workout away from a good mood.” Can I hear an “Amen?”
Have you ever wondered why active people are so energetic and chipper? Here are a few explanations for their enthusiasm.
Exercise strengthens your cardiovascular capabilities. With a strong cardiovascular system, your endurance is enhanced to deal with the stresses you face throughout a given day. That means you’ll even find that you have energy left over at the end of a rough day!
Exercise boosts your endorphin levels, creating that “feel good” sensation. Endorphins are the hormones that are released when your body requires an energy boost. Regular exercise leads to increased levels of endorphins. The type of exercise really doesn’t matter. There’s no reason for you to kill yourself with routines you hate, then, inevitably, quitting. A good daily walk, swim or bike ride will get you started and keep you going for the long term. Find what you love to do, then do it! Regularly.
Sleeping better is another way to create more energy. By moving during the day, you’ll experience a better night’s rest. That rest sharpens your mental focus and boosts your energy for the next day.
When was the last time you woke up feeling truly rested? Try this today: Go out and walk, run or bike for at least 30 minutes. See how it affects tonight’s sleep, and then let me know your outcome!
Eating for energy simply means making healthy choices. Active people are usually better at choosing healthy fuel for their bodies. As you begin to increase your movement, you will naturally start wanting to eat better. You’ll become wrapped in the positive cycle of health and energy. Exercise and eating well really do go hand in hand.
Isn’t it time to make some simple, positive changes that will last all year? Focus on what you want, rather than what you want to become free of. I promise you’ll find that increased energy and positive body changes are wonderful byproducts of living life to its fullest!
Chani Overstreet is an NASM Certified Personal Trainer and co-owner of Strada Fitness & Wellness Center with her husband, Luke. Strada is a state-of-the-art fitness studio located at 3041 Churchill Drive, Suite 100, in Flower Mound, across from Lifetime Fitness. Call 972.330.4300 or visit www.StradaFitness.com for more information.
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