With a large number of Americans preparing to hit the gym and the scale in the new year, health experts are sharing tips to remember when trying to get in shape.
According to a new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, almost a third of adults plan on dieting or losing weight as their New Year’s resolutions. Another from Forbes found that fitness is the number one resolution this new year, with 48% of people naming it a top priority.
So, what can Americans do to get in shape?
According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, movement is important when it comes to living a healthy lifestyle, not just exercise. Experts say that short periods of activity have cumulative health benefits that can lead to overall better health.
“Some physical activity is better than none,” the guide says.
But for those who do end up going to pump iron or run on the treadmill, health experts like Eric Smith, a General Manager at Orangetheory Fitness in Texas, say that doing what you like is key to building habits that last.
“Number one, I would say find something you enjoy,” Smith shared with CBS News. “It doesn’t really matter how hard or intense the workout is. If you’re not excited to get out of bed or get off the couch and go, you’re probably not going to stick with it.”
While cardio can be great for heart health and weight management, weight training can also be beneficial for metabolism and bone density.
For those who are looking to diet down their weight the old-fashioned way, skipping the Ozempic or Wegovy trend, the American Heart Association recommends increasing dietary fiber to help with heart health.
Increasing protein can also be important, as HealthLine reports that “Protein plays a key role in supporting weight management and overall health.”
Not only does it fill you up, but protein also makes your body burn more calories. A 2015 NIH study found that high-protein diets can increase calories burned by 260 per day.
Another tip for those dieting includes adding more raw vegetables, fruit, and whole grains to your diet, which are low in calories, meaning you can eat more of them while spending less of your caloric budget.
When it comes to the psychological aspect of getting in shape, Smith says it’s important to set rules with yourself to keep you on track.
“Find some non-negotiables,” Smith said. “No matter what comes your way this week or what your schedule looks like, you know that every Monday and every Wednesday, you’re doing X, Y, or Z.”
Setting schedules can help when implementing healthy habits as well, as the AHA says that trying new things with habits you already have can help.