2 - Healthy New Year | Cottage Grove Sentinel | January 25, 2017
HEALTHY NEW YEAR | HEALTHY GOALS
Get Fit
C
reating a health-inspired resolution for the New Year is a great
way to start on a positive note. A reasonable place to start is by
promising yourself to get fit this year.
Maybe you overindulged during the holiday season or have been meaning
to get in shape for some time. Either way, the New Year is a great time to
improve your health-related decision-making. Join millions of Americans
this year and create a resolution that will benefi t your health and put you
on the path to sustainable well-being.
Consult with a Doctor
Th is may seem a little counter intuitive. Aft er all, you’re planning to begin
an exercise and diet program so you can avoid trips to the doctor. Th is is
a crucial step, however, as certain conditions can be aggravated by strenu-
ous activity such as exercise.
Before you begin a new exercise or diet program, Th e Mayo Clinic recom-
mends consulting with your doctor to check for signs of heart disease,
diabetes or even arthritis. People with these conditions may need to fol-
low a special exercise program.
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Join A Gym
Th e beginning of the year is a good time to begin a new gym membership.
Check with local gyms to fi nd the best value for the membership that fi ts
your needs. Most gyms off er reduced fees if you purchase annually rather
than monthly.
Putting up a good chunk of change at once could be a good way to ensure
that you will stay with your new gym commitment as the weather warms.
Health Benefi ts
of Getting Fit
Getting fi t will benefi t you physically and mentally. Once you get in a
solid rhythm in your new, active lifestyle, you will notice a higher level of
endurance, which makes exercise easier to complete.
You also will notice higher self-esteem. Regular physical activity has been
proven to improve your confi dence, especially when it is associated with
more energy and accelerated weight loss.
Exercise will increase the number of calories you are able to burn and will
raise your resting metabolism. Th at means you’re even burning calories
while you rest. Th ere also are great improvements going on inside your
body. Although you may not be able to physically see the changes, regular
exercise is reducing your blood pressure and risk of heart disease.