New Year, New You!

Did you know that the #1 New Year's resolution for 2011 is to "get fit"? If you are one of the hundreds of thousands of people that have vowed to do so, here are some tips to help you in your journey!
The first thing to keep in mind is that a healthy lifestyle change does NOT happen overnight. It takes dedication. However, it may not be as difficult as you think. By incorporating several habits into your daily routine, you will see results faster and easier.
1. If you sit a lot at work and/or at home: try to get up and walk around for 2-3 minutes at least once per hour.
2. If you stand in one place while at work: try to shuffle your feet around every 10 minutes, so as to not allow joints to lock up.
3. Take the stairs instead of the elevator/escalator, as long as it is within reason (i.e. don't expect yourself to climb 20 flights of stairs!)
4. If you have a dog: take the dog for a 30-45 minute walk 2-3 times per week.
5. Try to snack: eat an apple, low fat yogurt, or 1 oz of raw almonds in between meals. Eating between meals will decrease your desire to overeat at a meal.
6. For portion control at meals: don't bother measuring everything, just don't allow food items to touch on your plate. And only have 1 serving.
7. Cut out pop and soda from your diet.
8. For an attainable exercise regimen: commit to cardio (running, elliptical, biking, swimming) 2-3 times per week for 30 minutes, and resistance (dumbbells, barbells, weight machines, bands) 1-2 times per week for 45 minutes. For resistance, choose exercises that work the greatest number of muscles at the same time.
Remember, YOU CAN DO THIS!! You are more likely to stick with it if you find an exercise buddy or personal trainer to help hold you accountable for your decisions. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Good luck!