Build Healthy Routines with Healthy Habit Formation

Healthy lifestyle routines lower the risk of various health conditions, diseases, and all-cause mortality (National Library of Medicine1). However, it is challenging to create healthy habits that last. It might feel frustrating when you don’t see results immediately or have difficulty navigating a busy schedule. Too often, we give up before healthy habits become part of our lifestyle. The good news is that creating lasting healthy habits isn’t impossible. Follow the tips below to build personalized healthy routines by forming healthy habits that endure despite our ever-changing schedules and lives. Keep Your Goals SMART Creating a habit can be challenging if you don’t have a specific plan or direction that you are aiming for. Often, we set broad goals and then feel defeated when we don’t see progress. Setting SMART goals can set you up for better success. S – [...]

Unlocking the Benefits of Short Workouts

Finding the time to fit regular exercise into your schedule can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to. Even small bouts of activity can be beneficial. Don’t worry about clearing your agenda for an exercise session. Instead, let’s dig into the benefits of short workouts. What is Recommended? Before diving into the benefits of short exercise, let’s review the most recent recommendations set by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). In 2018, the HHS updated the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans1. The recommendations for adults for the most health benefits include at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise accumulated weekly, plus strength training for all major muscle groups at least two days per week. In addition, the guidelines include minimizing overall sedentary time. One of the updates to this current edition is that bouts [...]

Maximizing Your Home Workouts: Tips for Space, Equipment, and Motivation

Home workouts have been gaining popularity with no signs of slowing down. They bring flexibility and convenience to your exercise schedule to enforce a lasting habit. The variety of home exercise is growing with more apps, equipment, and virtual classes available at your fingertips. However, it can still come with distractions and challenges. We’ve compiled a list of tips to help you maximize your home workouts and build a successful habit. Plan Your Space Plan your workout area to be a more successful space. You don’t need a large home gym with state-of-the-art equipment to create an exercise-friendly environment. Begin by choosing a space with minimal distractions. Avoid high-traffic areas of the home and consider a corner or room with a door. Consider distractions near you, such as chores, work, or electronics. Determine the activities you plan to do and [...]