A Beginner’s Guide to Getting Healthy

Getting in shape can be challenging. For many, getting fit and healthy seems laborious, as there appears to be too many stipulations and rules to follow. Even though many fitness articles can feel intimidating, getting healthy is easier than many assume.

Here is a beginner’s guide to getting fit and healthy:

The first priority when it comes to health and fitness is to find great direct primary care providers whom you feel comfortable with. Regardless of age or fitness level, it is always important to visit a doctor in order to ensure that there are no underlying health issues. Many illnesses can come on quickly and unexpectedly, thus having regular check-ups can help to keep you as aware as possible.

One of the key aspects to getting into shape is to sit down and determine your ultimate fitness goals. Are you trying to lose weight? Get your cholesterol under control? Keep up with your children? Have more energy throughout the day? Knowing what you want beforehand can help you create a plan to achieve those goals. Aimlessly trying to get healthy can impede your ability to get healthy.

One of the most important parts to health is water. Drinking water not only helps to remove any toxins from your body, it also helps you feel more energized. A good rule of thumb is to drink about two to three liters a day, especially when it’s hot. The more you sweat, the more dehydrated you can feel.

Although it can be tempting to eat minimally throughout the day, it is actually recommended you eat a certain amount of calories per day. If you eat too little, you can actually slow down your metabolism, which can slow down your weight loss and fitness goals. Try to cut out as much processed sugar as possible, for sugar tends to keep on fat, and instead look to eat natural sugar if needing something sweet. Additionally, fill your diet with veggies, lean protein, and other superfoods.

One of the best types of exercise for health and fitness is cardio exercise. Walking, hiking, biking, swimming, and other sports are great types of activity. Consider finding a group or friend to join in with you on exercise, as it is not only more fun, it can also keep you accountable to reaching your fitness goals. Or, look to join a fitness class. Gyms have plenty to choose from, including zumba, cardio kickbox, spin, yoga, etc.

Additionally, be sure you stretch before, during, and after exercise. This alleviates your risk of injury, and will help to improve your workout recovery. Also, do not forget about integrating strength training into your exercise regimen, such as weight training or resistance training. This helps to build strong, healthy muscles.

Making these healthy choices can help you get back into shape and become healthier and happier.

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