Make Your Healthy New Year’s Resolutions a Reality
By Megan Neuhart
Ready to take control of your health this new year? Fad diets and get-fit-quick schemes may be begging for your attention, but think beyond the trends. If you are hoping to make the resolutions stick this year, I’m here to guide you!
When certified by the American Council on Exercise in 2008, I began my career as a personal trainer and group exercise instructor. In 2011, I completed my degree in Health and Physical Education at Grace to supplement my career. In the last five years, I have pursued the most updated and reliable research in the fitness industry.
The only way to maintain your fitness long-term is by establishing the philosophy that healthy living is lifelong. It is not a 60-day fitness scheme or 10-day detox diet. Rather, choose to make decisions for your health on a daily basis by radically altering your philosophy of personal health.
Nutrition: A common misconception is that subtracting a food group cuts calories and burns unwanted weight quickly without negative consequences. However, keeping a balanced diet that includes appropriate portions from every food group is essential to your health. The body requires a daily intake of 20-30 percent protein, 50-60 percent carbohydrates, and 10- 12 percent fat. If you deplete your body of one of these three energy sources, your system will compensate in a way that compromises your health. Instead of cutting out a food group, consider changing how you take these in. Slow down and read the labels. If ingredients contains words ending in –ate and -ose, hydrogenated oil, corn syrup, or enriched wheat, then what you’re consuming is not food at all. Compare the contents between products before deciding what you’ll put in your body.
Exercise: Exercise is the best tool you have to ensure your longevity and quality of life. When it comes to exercise, variety is key! Your body adapts to change in activity. Therefore, varying the level of intensity and method of exercise is the most efficient way to maintain your physique. When beginning a routine for the first time, it’s important to know it takes approximately two to three weeks to feel change and four to six to notice visible change.
Your cardiovascular endurance is maintained by consistent aerobic activity, which stabilizes a fast-working metabolism. Additionally, allow two days for recovery between strength training sessions, at which point your muscles will begin to atrophy. Remaining faithful to good nutrition and exercise will ensure long-lasting health benefits.
Need support? I offer Ladies’ Body Sculpt every Monday-Wednesday-Friday 7:15-8:00 a.m., Pilates every Monday-Wednesday 4:45-5:30 p.m., and Lunch Break Yoga 11:40-12:15 p.m. My classes cost $1 for students and $3 for all other GRC members.
Also consider personal training at the GRC. Options include 60-minute sessions for $35 or 30-minute sessions for $20. I also offer nutrition guides for $35 and 12- week personal fitness programs for $50. Find more information at the front desk or contact me at or megan. [email protected].
