Sometimes, a strenuous workout just can’t be managed. You might have a health condition, or maybe you just can’t squeeze it into your day. Fortunately, there are other options for losing weight and getting into shape.
Why Exercise Matters
A healthy lifestyle should include a fitness plan. Most people know they should be more active and that exercise offers a number of important health benefits, but there are some surprising perks to your sweat sessions you may not be aware of. For example, working out regularly is linked to reduced depression, faster recovery from illness and injury, and it may even slow the aging process.
Related reading: 3 Ways a Detox Diet can aid Injury Recovery
If you are new to exercise, talk with your doctor before jumping in, and if pain is standing in the way of a regular workout routine, you should consider exploring the possibilities of using CBD, or cannabidiol. CBD comes from cannabis, but it doesn’t have the same properties that cause users to experience a “high.” At the same time, CBD could potentially reduce your symptoms, alleviate levels of pain and inflammation, and help you to be more physically active.
Related reading: Reasons to Include CBD Oil in Your Detox Program
A Little Goes a Long Way
You don’t need to participate in lengthy workout sessions to enjoy the benefits of exercise. As little as 10 minutes at a time makes a difference, so when you find a short period of downtime, make the most of it. You can also consider spreading your exercises throughout the day instead of trying to do them all at once. It’s an efficient way to manage your time, and as Odyssey points out, those fitness breaks can be big stress-relievers, too.
Start Early
Sometimes, our days get away from us, making it hard to stay on track with fitness. Try scheduling your workout first thing in the morning. By getting it out of the way at the beginning of the day, you eliminate that feeling of having exercise hanging over your head when you get off work. You don’t need to be a morning person to plug a workout into the early part of your day. Muscle & Fitness suggests making it easier for yourself by preparing for your workout the night before. Set your alarm a half hour early, lay your exercise gear out, have breakfast ready to grab, and select your outfit for work.
Active Alternatives
Finding ways to slip in exercise when your day is packed can be challenging, but changing up a few small details can make all the difference. When your busy lifestyle seems to be getting the better of you, look for ways to add activity. Do some light stretches or lift hand weights when you’re on conference calls, and take the stairs every chance you get. Instead of taking the closest parking spot when you’re running errands or arriving at the office, try parking a block away. If you aren’t sure how efficiently you’re managing your fitness plan, try using a fitness app to track your progress, and you’ll see those little changes really adding up.
Examine Your Eating Habits
Healthy eating habits are the other cornerstone of weight loss. Take a hard look at what you’re consuming throughout the day, and evaluate if you would be better off with a few changes. Mindless snacking, drinking sugary beverages, and eating empty-calorie foods (basically, fare that doesn’t qualify as a fruit, vegetable, lean protein, or healthy fat) can leave you feeling dissatisfied. Tweaking your diet is key to dropping weight, especially if you’re sticking to a low-intensity workout program.
You don’t need a hardcore fitness regimen to drop weight. Examine your lifestyle for areas where you can make improvements. With a few small changes and a solid plan, good health and improved quality of life can be yours!
Image by Joanna Dubaj