Fitness and health always top the list of New Year's resolutions.
The good news is, Arizona is home to some of the best trails and outdoor exercise spots in the U.S. But it doesn’t matter if you’re on Camelback Mountain or in the comfort of your own home - you can squeeze in a workout almost anywhere!
Exercising is one of the most powerful things you can do for your health. Physical activity helps slow some chronic diseases, including arthritis and type 2 diabetes. It lowers the risk of some types of cancer and can help to improve blood pressure.
To reap these rewards, however, consistency is key. According to the current Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, adults should fit in 150 to 300 minutes of moderately intense physical activity or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorously intense physical activity each week. That's in addition to two weekly sessions of strength training. It adds up to just two to five hours per week.
To fulfill this exercise goal, try to do something active daily. These steps can boost your motivation and help you keep up the good work:
Find a good fit
If you pick activities you enjoy doing, you'll be more likely to stick with them. It could be as simple as brisk walking for 30 minutes every day and taking online strength training classes. Or maybe it's going to exercise classes and working out with resistance bands while watching TV. Try new ideas until you find something fun. You might even want to team up with an exercise buddy.
Give yourself credit for all you do
You don't have to go to a gym to exercise. Everything active counts, including carrying bags of groceries. Look for ways to conveniently fit more movement into your day, like walking your dog for an extra lap around the block.
Set fitness goals
Write down your goals for the day or week and cross them off your list as you make progress.
Reward yourself
The positive feeling you get from exercising is its own reward. Still, tangible prizes for reaching your daily or weekly fitness goals, such as new clothing, concert tickets, or a night out with friends, can help keep you going.
This information is provided for educational purposes only. Individuals should always consult with their healthcare providers regarding medical care or treatment, as recommendations, services or resources are not a substitute for the advice or recommendation of an individual's physician or healthcare provider. Services or treatment options may not be covered under an individual's particular health plan.