It's never too late to start moving your body and setting personal goals, and what better time than at the beginning of a new year. In fact, most Americans quit their resolutions only ten days into the month of January. Kimberly Nuzie of Kimberly Nuzie Fitness, BS in exercise science and MS in exercise science and nutrition, is here to provide the encouragement we need to get up and get moving.
Tell us the best ways to hold yourself accountable with health and wellness resolutions in the New Year.
Enlist a workout buddy. When you have someone to check in with, it motivates you and keeps you honest with yourself and them. Taking a group class together or engaging in friendly competition makes things more fun. Also, break down your main goal into smaller goals and make them specific and attainable. Come up with ways to achieve these sub goals, for example, “I am going to exercise three times this week” or “I am going to complete ten pushups a day.” Track your progress and once you hit those marks, reward yourself and enjoy the confidence boost you’ll get from hitting them.
What are the top three exercises you can do at home during the winter months?
One of the best exercises that works your entire body and focuses on strength and cardio is a burpee. You can modify it by taking out the jump and slowing the movement down. It incorporates a squat, pushup, jump and plank all into one! Another great exercise is a lunge. This can be done stationary, walking, laterally or jumping…the options are endless! You can add dumbbells for an extra challenge. Lastly, triceps dips are a great upper body exercise that uses your body weight to work your triceps, chest, shoulders and biceps. You only need a chair or a bench to complete them.
Any tips on incorporating your kids or family into your workouts?
Incorporating your kids or family is a great idea to get everyone moving and active. Make it as fun as possible – think dance parties, a game of tag or sports, such as tennis or basketball. Having your kids involved shows them that being healthy and strong is important and a part of your daily life. It removes the guilt that some of us may feel when we want to work out, but also have kids to keep entertained. Even just talking about healthy food choices and letting them help make dinner can open them up to trying new foods and healthier options.
Best advice for someone just starting out?
The best advice is start small and just keep going. It doesn’t matter if you start with one pushup or five minutes of cardio. Each day you will get stronger, you will enjoy it a little more as it becomes a part of your routine and you will start to see progress. Don’t get discouraged if you are not seeing results within a week, it takes time and is a lifestyle change, not a quick fix. Find something you enjoy doing, so you have more motivation to workout instead of dreading it! Lastly know your “why.” Why do you want to start and what keeps you motivated to not give up?