Habits of the Highly Fit

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Have you ever noticed how some people can train and stay fit, while others get stuck in an endless loop of weight loss and weight gain? Many people start fitness programs with zeal, only to fizzle out after a few weeks. But then there are some people, year after year, that improve their fitness and overall health. Below are a few great tips that highly fit people have adopted into their lives.

KEEP IT REAL
It is unrealistic (and unsafe) to  go from couch potato to marathon running in a month. But it is realistic to to reach after a few months of steady training. A great piece of advice is, "Don't act like today is all you have". Try making fitness part of your everyday life rather than trying to add yet another thing to the to-do list. Create each day (or so) around something healthy you can fit in without having to make sweeping changes. Start naturally. After work, go for a walk or do 20 minutes of yoga that challenges you without overwhelming your body. Increase it if and when it feels possible, but allow yourself to look at the big picture, and take actions that will benefit you for the long haul, not just the smaller moment at hand.

DON'T WAIT TILL YOU'RE BORED
It's so important to mix up your workouts to keep you motivated and to continue improving your fitness. Have fun by trying new activities or picking an event to train for. Meet up with groups for a bike ride or run. Try exploring a new trail or a new area of Vermont. Before you find you're getting bored, find something else that interests you.

PARTICIPATE IN EVENTS
Training for a goal or a specific date can help keep
your training on track. There are so many unique
events out there to choose from. Supporting your favorite charity's event can be a great way to stay motivated.

PAIR UP
Sometimes you need that extra kick. Set a fitness goal with your partner or friend.  Training, playing and exploring together helps you stay fit as a couple, physically as well as mentally and emotionally.

SET GOALS
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. The same is true of fitness. Setting short-term goals allows you to stay motivated. Don't let your past missteps affect your present. Many people get discouraged if they miss a workout or eat something they were trying to avoid. When this happens, people tend to feel like a failure which can quickly derail you from your goals. It's important to know that you can only control what happens today!


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