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FEATURE: Getting fit and healthy the really easy way

Although this is around the time we start looking into new ways to get fit and healthy, it’s probably safe to say that despite our best intentions, we don’t always keep to our resolutions. So, City Lit health and movement tutor Lorna Malcolm has put together these really easy to follow tips for achieving a fit and healthy 2010.

Keep it fun

Take exercising as an opportunity to learn something new, such as rollerblading, Pilates, or salsa. If your exercise is a chore you are less likely to do it!

Make catch-up time, active time

When you are catching up with friends in the New Year, why not make it active and try out one of the many temporary ice skating rinks around town. You can motivate each other, have a giggle and catch up on the latest at the same time!

Moderate activity more effective than short bursts

It is suggested by The American College of Sports Medicine that as little as 30 minutes a day of activities like walking, stair climbing and bike riding (moderate activity), can be beneficial to your health. It is better to be active throughout the day than to condense your activity into one hour and then just sit at a desk, in the car or in front of the TV for the rest of the day. Programme a little something into each day and to do at least 80% of it.

Make the most of feeling good – the rest comes later

Exercise is not only about looking good but also feeling good. Often, when you first start exercising you experience the feel good factor - you may feel increased confidence, less stressed, more mentally alert, have more energy and be better able to relax. Don’t get upset or disheartened if the physical changes are a bit slow. As long as you persevere the physical changes will happen and you can enjoy the feel good factor in the meantime.

Go for a winter walk to aid digestion

Did you know that being active aids digestion? So instead of having a snooze after dinner, you could wrap up warm and go for a walk.

Keep your joints healthy

We only get one set and even though we can now have certain joints replaced wouldn’t it be better to use the ones we have wisely? Joint movement is maintained and improved by exercise because moderate activity helps lubricate joints; maintains range of movement, mobility and flexibility and limits the effects of degenerative arthritis.

Remain alert about the risk of major health problems

The British Medical Journal note that risk of heart disease and stroke can be significantly reduced by stopping smoking, reducing consumption of saturated fats and salts, reducing alcohol intake and increasing physical activity. Perhaps try one change for a New Years resolution,

Use it or lose it – make a commitment to life long movement

The benefits of exercise are physiological (to do with the body), psychological (concerning the mind) and social (relative to how a person’s fitness, or lack of, affects them within their community). If we don’t use our bodies, we lose capacity and ability and open ourselves up to disease and the affects of aging. Make a commitment to life long movement. It will serve you well in all aspects of your life.

If you’re interested in joining health and movement courses at City Lit, browse our courses here. We offer evening, weekend and daytime classes.

Story added 17th December 2009

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FEATURE: Getting fit and healthy the really easy way

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