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Was your New Year resolution to get more active this year? A whopping 60 percent of these resolutions fall by the wayside after only six months, according to research from the University of Pennsylvania.
You might have already cancelled your gym membership, but warmer weather and enjoyable time outside is ideal for revamping a fitness routine.
Improving your fitness level can mean a variety of things depending on your goals and abilities — beginning marathon training, trying out a new physical activity or simply taking longer walks around the neighborhood.
To help map out a plan to get back on track, Dr. Fred Pescatore, natural physician and author of the New York Times best-selling book, “The Hamptons Diet,” is sharing three tips for achieving fitness goals this season.
Set a goal: Want to look great for your 10 year high school reunion? Do you have a big trip on the horizon? Do you have a health hurdle to overcome? “Determining a goal and setting milestones has been successful for many of my patients,” said Dr. Pescatore. “Achieving the little steps in between an end goal provides extra motivation.”
Slow and steady wins the race: “You can’t expect overnight results — you need to be realistic,” said Dr. Pescatore. “While it may seem like people in magazines magically get amazing results in a few days, a realistic and maintainable plan often takes weeks or in most cases, months to achieve.”
Natural support to enhance your routine: Establishing a diet strategy has its obvious benefits, but that isn’t all your body needs to achieve maximum results. “Supplementation with natural, proven ingredients is essential for a variety of health benefits, including sports nutrition,” said Dr. Pescatore. “One of my personal favorites and a go-to recommendation is Pycnogenol, a natural French maritime pine bark extract.” The extract is one of the most well-researched ingredients on the market, according to experts. Indeed, a study published in the “Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness” found the super antioxidant improves overall fitness, performance levels and recovery in both recreational and serious athletes.
“Many of my patients have said they noticed results in just eight weeks’ time, and I’m talking faster running times, stronger endurance, better blood flow and even the ability to hasten post exercise recovery by alleviating cramping,” said Dr. Pescatore, but cautioned that no one thing is panacea for health and well-being and that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables will also beget results.
While it might not be easy to change one’s attitude toward fitness, there are countless health benefits that can be achieved with even the smallest lifestyle adjustments. Setting a realistic goal with the help of your healthcare provider, establishing a slow and steady nutrition and fitness routine, and supporting your body with natural, nourishing ingredients, can help you reach health and fitness goals. (StatePoint)
