BeFIT Resources

Six Reasons for Starting a New Fitness Program in the New Year

SIX REASONS FOR STARTING A NEW FITNESS PROGRAM IN THE NEW YEAR

By Jeremy Cook

With the hustle and bustle of the holidays over, we have entered into a new year. So now it’s time to start focusing on ourselves. A New Year allows us to reflect on last year’s resolutions and make new ones to strive towards. For many of us, this is a time for self-improvement – a time to start a new fitness program. The USA Today ranks losing weight as the top resolution for the New Year.

Now it’s no secret that if being fit is one of your resolutions, a combination of healthy diet and regular exercise is the most effective way to help you lose weight. In addition to weight loss, exercise can have a positive effect on our overall health. When making your resolution to be fit, think of these added benefits a new fitness routine can bring:

Reduction of health diseases and conditions. Regular physical activity can prevent health conditions including heart disease, strokes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, and depression. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease and stroke are two of the leading causes of death in the United States. They recommend “getting at least 150 minutes a week (2 hours and 30 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity to put you at a lower risk for these diseases.” Being active can improve quality of life and increases the chances of living longer healthier life.

A boost in energy. Regular physical activity not only increases muscle strength, it also boosts cardiovascular health, giving us greater endurance to accomplish daily activities more easily. When it’s easier to do your daily activities, you’ll have energy left over and not feel so tired at the end of the day.

Mood stabilization. Physical activity increases the levels hormones and chemicals in the brain that are directly related to mood stabilization. Regular physical activity can make you feel happier and more relaxed. This improved mood can reduce your risk of depression, anxiety, and stress.

Improved self-confidence. Becoming more fit can increase self-esteem and self-worth. A consistent fitness regimen can reduce weight and increase muscle definition, which in turn can improve body image. Regardless of fitness level, improvements in strength, endurance, and the cardiovascular health, are major accomplishments and will have a direct impact on self-esteem.

Brain stimulation. The lightest physical activities like walking, swimming, and gardening can stimulate brain activity. Physical activities that require balance and coordination can improve concentration and attention. These activities can improve cognitive function and can reduce the risk of falling in older adults.

Inspiration in others. Most people perform better and work harder when paired up with a workout partner. People at all fitness levels can help push their partners to work harder. Working out can be contagious, as family and friends will be proud of your fitness accomplishments. And who knows? Maybe they’ll be inspired to start a fitness program of their own.

When making a resolution, keep in mind that any increase in exercise or physical activity is good for you. The two-and-a-half hours of moderate-intensity aerobic activity a week recommended by the CDC is an excellent starting point if you are new to working out. Increasing the duration and intensity of your workouts will also maximize the health benefits.