DIET - Make it Positive!

The word diet often has a negative connotation – one of deprivation.  As a personal trainer, I explain the word is a noun used to describe how people eat (e.g., my diet is how I eat on a daily basis).  You should not be “on a diet,” but rather maintain a healthy lifestyle everyday through proper nutrition and exercise.   By simply changing our negative thoughts about diet, we can change our future behavior!    

Oftentimes overhauling your lifestyle can be overwhelming, so I recommend making small changes you can stick with long-term.  Once you have mastered a new healthy habit, you will most likely be encouraged to achieve another.

To encourage healthy behavior it is important to set yourself up for success.  Below are a few simple tips:

·        Stock your pantry and refrigerator with healthy food choices

·        Make a shopping list before going to the grocery store

·        Cut and prepare vegetables and fruit so they are easily assessable

·        Write positive affirmations and healthy tips where you will see them

·        Find a buddy to walk with during lunch break a couple of days a week

·        Keep a pair or comfortable walking shoes at your desk

·        Pack your gym bag in your car and head to the gym right after work

·        Pack a lunch you will look forward to eating (e.g., veggies and hummus, a large salad with lots of vegetables)

·        Monitor daily activity whether by using a high tech fitness gadget or wearing a simple pedometer

Remember to make simple changes so they will become routine – positive results will eventually follow.