We all battle with Father Time every day of our lives. As much as we want to do this and that, face it, we don’t have 48 hours in a day to accomplish everything. For the typical Singaporean, most of our week days are occupied by our jobs and by the time we knock off, we are dead tired. This leaves us just two days of the weekend to attempt to do some sort of exercise which honestly isn’t quite enough to burn off what we have consumed throughout the week.
What we need are quick and effective ways to keep our bodies fit and healthy, be it through our diet or exercise. Here are five ways you can achieve your ideal body. You can thank me later.
1. Get into the right frame of mind
You may think this isn’t important but it’s probably the most required step before anything else. If you have noticed, those who plunge into a workout or diet regime without a proper mindset to succeed usually don’t. As corny as it may sound, you need to do the Rocky Balboa and psyched yourself to do what you need to do to get the body you desire. However, please don’t lie to yourself and set goals that are too high in too short a time. Be realistic and be persistent.
2. Eat right
Before any exercise can be of use, you need to consume foods that are good for your body. Think fresh green leafy vegetables, fruits, and lots of grains. Of course you are allowed to switch up your diet every once in awhile (everyone needs a boost every now and then), but keep to the main healthy food groups and eat clean. Your body will detox and you will feel lighter and healthier, not to mention your mind will also be more alert and you won’t feel sleepy after lunch!
3. Exercise, exercise, exercise
You don’t have to overdo it but having an exercise routine of about three to four times a week at about half an hour to 45 minutes each time is good enough. Whether you choose to jog or do cardio exercises like Zumba or Pilates, it really doesn’t matter. What matters is that you are moving and burning those calories. As long as you are exercising well and eating right, the combination will definitely see your body transforming into the one you have always wanted.
4. Now, keep it up
Achieving your desired body isn’t something you see happening overnight. Once you have gotten what you set out to do, you need to maintain it to ensure longevity of your success. The easiest way to do so? Make your diet and exercise regime a habit. You ever heard the saying “old habits die hard”? Exactly.
5. Give yourself a treat now and then
You don’t have to punish yourself just because you want to continue being healthy and fit. Everyone needs some kind of motivation every once in awhile to keep going. If you have done well for yourself, have a cheat meal to get you back on track. You ever see those in diet and fitness regimes who deflate after two weeks? Pushing yourself is one thing. Doing it while having nothing to look forward to is another. So don’t ill-treat your body and have that glass of wine or that piece of cheese in moderation! Thank your body for bringing you through all those trying times and coming out victorious.
