Being in shape is not only a matter of body aesthetic but also health. Those who can maintain a healthy Body Mass Index are less likely to develop cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and body deformations later in life. There is no such a thing as Perfect Health, of course, but being motivated enough to pursue the best for your health is the right attitude to live a quality life.
Here, we’ve listed 4 practical steps to achieving that goal. Follow through!
Be Realistic
To some people, getting in shape is a piece of cake. But most of the time, that is because their starting condition allows them to do so. For instance, if you are an overweight person weighing around 170 lbs or more, you will have to start with a weight loss program first. And it will take at least a year, or maybe more. But if you are already in an ideal weight, you will have to work your muscles to be in shape. And it will only take for several months before you can get shredded and ripped.
Plan Your Diet
Typically, people go with the workouts first, and then the diet. Here, we’d like to do the reverse because we assume that you’ve abused yourself for a long time. Otherwise, why would you bother to be in shape in the first place?
First, you must start to learn to cook. Sauteing, grilling, roasting, and steaming are the fundamental techniques that you must master. Second, find the nearest grocery stores that can provide you with fresh veggies, fruits, and meats. You can forget all of those diet shenanigans that are overly complicated. You only need to avoid fast food, cook healthy meals by yourself, and eat only when you need it. If you want to lose weight, your body must undergo calorie deficits. Your meal plan must be low in carbs and high in protein. If you’re going to bulk up, you must get just enough calories.
Pick the Right Workouts
Basically, workouts are divided into two categories: strength training and cardio. Strength training is stationary, like weight training with plates and gym machines, for example. Cardio, on the other hand, requires your whole body to move. Running, swimming, hiking, and cycling belong to this group.
As the name suggests, strength training is vital for muscle growth, while cardio is for your endurance and weight loss. However, too much cardio can lead to muscle loss as well. Therefore, you’d better plan your workouts according to your current body shape and your goal.
Get Quality Rest
Beginners often let their enthusiasm bests them. They overload themselves with intense sets for the first three or four weeks, and after that, they break from it forever. That won’t do you any good. You’d better realistically schedule things. Plan the rest days proportionately to your exercise. And once you are resting, make sure it goes as planned. Don’t use it to play some computer games or hang out with friends.
