In many states across the country and parts all over the world, the gym has been closed in the face of a world health crisis. To many gym goers, this can feel like an even bigger blow to the situation. Although it feels terrible that the gym is closed, that shouldn’t stop you from achieving your health and fitness goals. You can break it up into two parts – diet and activity levels.
Diet:
With some simple, effortless tweaks to your diet – you can shed a few pounds. Diet is the foundation of everything related to health and fitness. Think of your diet like a strong foundation where you will build your house – there are other pieces necessary, but it’s the most important one.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
It tastes far from a chocolate milkshake, but it possesses a myriad of health benefits. Scientist conducted a research study in which they took two groups of people on to a restricted calorie diet and had one group consume apple cider vinegar daily for 12 weeks while the other group did the exact same thing without the ACV. The group that consumed ACV resulted in much more pounds shed.
Tip: Vinegar is highly acidic so it’s vital to dilute it in another liquid – you can consume 2 tablespoons per day.
2. Fast
Fasting one or two days out of the week can improve mental clarity and optimize your health. Research studies have proven fasting can reduce bodily inflammation and accelerate weight loss. You can pick two days out of the week to fast anywhere from 6 to 12 hours. Especially if you get your activity by going to the gym, fasting can be a great option to stay slim.
3. Smaller Portions
Often times, we underestimate the amount of food we are actually consuming throughout the day. Food is everywhere, the temptations to keep snacking and eating are endless. If you want to remain at a slimmer physique, cut out the unnecessary snacking and overeating. If you’re unsure of how much you are actually eating, you can try recording the number of calories in the food you consume for a whole week. This method will give you a better idea of how much you’re actually eating. Once you get a better understanding, it’ll be easier to manipulate your diet in a manner that benefits you.
Tip: Use smaller bowls, cups, and plates while eating or drinking. We humans are extremely visual, if you place food in a large dish you are more likely to over eat.
5. Cut the junk
A bit of junk food doesn’t hurt, but if you’re trying to slim down it’s best to toss it all together.
6. Add vegetables
Many individuals skip out on their necessary servings of vegetables each day. Vegetables contain fiber which is beneficial for bowl health and aids in maintaining a healthy weight. Aim for 2 servings of your favorite vegetables each day.
Activity:
If you are sedentary for most of the day that can cause a big blow to the amount of activity and action you’re burning. Most of us always want to park in the closest spot or take the elevator. A subtle change in habits can completely change your health profile in a matter of weeks. The key to getting active while the gym is closed is making decisions that are going to cause you to move more.
- Take the stairs
- Park further from the entrance
- Go for a 15 – 30-minute walk
- Do an activity you like such as dancing, swimming, or playing a sport
- Take your dog for a walk
