LiveWell Vermont

Have you started a running routine this year or are looking for some advice on starting running? Check out these great tips to get you started. 1.) Invest in the right shoes/gear . If your feet and knees are hurting or you running shirt is uncomfortable, it won't make running much fun for you. You don't need to have a lot of gear, just a few things that make running comfortable! 2.) Don't start out trying to go for a fast pace/time. Go for distance at first and don't worry about your pace. Once you have a solid base for mileage, then start adding speed work into your routine if it's your goal to get faster. 3.) Join a running group. Running solo has it's benefits too, but a running group can be very motivating especially on days when you're struggling to get out of the house. 4.) Make running a habit. Even if this means going out for just a few minutes a day - make sure that you get in a routine. 5.) Build mileage gradually. Too much too soo...

Don't have time to fit a workout in? Think again! Here are some everyday activities you may already be doing that can count as exercise!   1.) Shopping. From buying groceries at the grocery store to picking out a new pair of shoes, shopping means you're probably walking. Add some more walking in by parking far away from the store and walking. 2.) Cleaning. Vacuuming, dusting, sweeping, and many cleaning tasks burn calories! Make it more of a workout by adding calf raises, squats, lunges, or torso twists while cleaning up! 3.) Cooking. From chopping veggies, washing dishes, to whisking and stirring things by hand, you can get some exercise just from making dinner! 4.) Washing Your Car. If you wash your car by hand then you can get a quality workout in doing so! 5.) Shoveling Snow. Let's hope we don't see snow for awhile, but during the winter months shoveling snow is a great workout. Make sure you're using proper form so you don't hurt your should...

  Have you every gone for a walk in nature and come back feeling refreshed and happier? You're not imagining things, being in nature can relieve stress. Hiking and walking can also give you endorphins which make you happier! Not only is hiking a great form of exercise, studies are showing that hiking can boost your creativity and problem-solving skills. Being in nature also allows you to connect with yourself and your surroundings which can elevate your mood.  If you need more convincing, hiking also can help increase your Vitamin D levels, reduce insomnia, burns calories, increases your energy, and helps improve your overall health! Vermont has a lot of great trails to hike so plan some outdoor adventures this year!

Do you love hiking and want to make sure you're prepared on the trail? Make sure you have these essential items on your next hike.   1.) Appropriate footwear. For shorter hikes, trail shoes are great, but for longer hikes or if you're carrying a heavier backpack a more supportive hiking shoe/boot will be beneficial. 2.) Map/Compass. Having a map and compass with you in case you get lost and in case your GPS fails, is essential. 3.) Extra water and/or a way to purify water. When you become dehydrated, your body can't perform well. Be sure to pack plenty of water. 4.) Extra food. It's always a good idea to have extra food on hand in case you get lost, you want to spend a little more time by a stream you found, the terrain was more difficult than expected and you need to keep your energy up, etc. 5.) Rain gear and extra clothing. The weather can be unpredictable especially if you're changing altitudes throughout your hike. Dressing in layers can help, av...

It's time for the corporate cup again! Registration is now open!   If you register by April 30th, the cost is $25 per person/$75 per team.  After April 30th , the cost is $50 per person/$150 per team.

Walking is a great form of exercise. Whether you're using walking as part of a fitness routine or just looking for a quick energy boost in the middle of your day, these tips can help you add more steps in your day!   1.) Walk the block In the morning before you get into your car to leave for work and in the evening when you get home, walk around the block once. 2.) Get your coffee somewhere else Instead of going to your usual coffee shop, walk somewhere slightly further. 3.) Challenge your friends Do you have a fitness tracker? Certain trackers let you challenge your friends, family, and coworkers. See who can get the most amount of steps! 4.) Skip the drive Walk to the store, work, or to meet your friend instead of driving! 5.) Make it a social activity Instead of meeting friends for coffee on the weekend, why not meet for a walk or hike? 6.) Take the stairs Instead of taking the elevator, take the stairs. 7.) Take breaks If you're sitting at a desk all ...