When people find out that I’m a personal trainer, sometimes it leads to uncomfortable conversations about what it takes to be “healthy”. I get questions about the latest diet trends, the “best” workouts, and weight loss “quick fixes”.
When I tell them I don’t have any secrets, I always feel like I’ve let them down. Why? Every popular magazine shares articles about the “secrets” of health and wellness. Every fitness guru on social media is selling the latest and greatest routine.
Who am I to say these magazines and experts are bluffing? There has to be a secret to being healthy, right?
Okay, fine. There are secrets and for the first time ever, I’m sharing my top secrets to being healthy with all of you. Here they are in no particular order:
The BEST Workout Routine: The best workout routine incorporates 3-5 days of cardiovascular exercise and strength training. Whether that’s running, spinning or walking, cardiovascular exercise will improve your heart health. When it comes to strength, anything that allows you to (safely) lift heavy weights will help build lean muscle mass to keep your bones and muscles strong.
The BEST Recovery Tool: 7-9 hours of sleep. If you want to improve your health, sleep is a must. It helps prevent illness, improves muscle coordination and repairs damaged muscle and tissue. Truth bomb: If you don’t get enough sleep, your exercise and meal prepping efforts won’t work as well.
The BEST Self-Care Routine: Stress management. Stress has the ability to impact your body, mood and behavior. It causes many common physical and mental health conditions like headaches, poor recovery and anxiety. Self-care doesn’t have to be expensive, it just has to provide relief. Drawing, dancing and singing in the shower all count!
The BEST Diet: The best diet incorporates nutrients from a variety of sources. It meets your daily caloric needs and provides enough fuel to keep your mind and body working properly. Pro-tip: It also involves drinking water throughout the day.
I know what you’re thinking - WORST SECRETS EVER. Maybe, but before you unsubscribe, know that there really aren’t any secrets, hacks or quick fixes that lead to long-term, sustainable health.
Unfollow the social media fitness gurus and ignore the click bait magazine articles that feed off our insecurities and confusion around health and wellness. We all deserve better.
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