Whether it’s a colleague, neighbor, or family member, we all know someone who is always (and I mean always) in top shape. What’s their secret to staying motivated? Are they just born that way? Do they take a magic pill?
They are consistent with their work-outs (yes, even on holiday), and overeating is not in their vocabulary (unless it’s carrots with hummus). And they have a constant burst of energy, whether it’s Friday afternoon or Monday morning.
What is their secret to staying motivated? Are they just born that way? Do they take a magic pill? Not at all. They all share a set of simple habits that can transform your life.
1. They rest sufficiently
Being fit is not just about exercising but being healthy across the board. Sufficient sleep is essential for this. Not only does it give you the energy to stay sporty, but your body also needs the rest just as much as exercise.
Difficulty falling asleep? A soothing evening routine can work wonders. Do an elaborate skincare ritual before you get to bed, burn a candle, do breathing exercises, read a book instead of watching TV.
2. They drink plenty of water
This habit is important not only for those who want to be in top shape but also for all mortals (that is, everyone). Health gurus keep insisting on it for a reason: Drinking enough water is crucial for those who want to be fit and healthy, whether you have a workout that day or not.
3. They keep their lives exciting
People in top shape are often open to trying new things. In fact, that’s also a trait of people who grow old happily, and don’t we all want that? Whether it’s a sport, a dish, or a new trend, people tend to say that something new isn’t for them, even before they try it.
Trying new things on a regular basis will keep you young, curious, stimulated, and mentally active. As a result, you will also have more physical energy, whether the challenges are related to exercise or not. So say yes more often and see for yourself what it does to you.
4. They are active outside the gym
A fit person is not limited to workouts alone in terms of movement. He or she consciously chooses an active lifestyle. They are happy to add extra exercise moments to their day, where they see the opportunity.
Do you usually take the elevator or the stairs? Choose the mini workout and take the stairs. Do you take the car or do you walk? Go for a walk so that you get to your 6,000 steps per day. Are you waiting for your pasta to be ready? Dance until the water boils. Seeing any exercise as a workout makes the activity all the more fun.
5. They have a routine
Being fit is not an innate trait but the result of a series of simple habits. The nice thing about habits is that they eventually become part of your routine, so you don’t think about it anymore but just do it. If you’re consistent, those ten minutes of morning stretches become as natural as your cup of coffee.
6. They think about what to eat
Instead of focusing on what they shouldn’t eat (high-sugar and fat products, take-out meals, heavy desserts), healthy people focus on what they can eat. On Pinterest (and the rest of the wide web) you’ll find millions of original recipes that are healthy but still make your mouth water. Vary what you eat to keep it interesting.
7. They listen to their body instead of dieting
Intense diets don’t keep you in shape. Healthy habits, based on your body, do. By listening to your body when you eat, you will automatically know in the long run which dishes make you feel bloated and which you tolerate well. The answer to the question of what to eat is not found in a diet, but within yourself. So take the time to discover what works for you and what doesn’t.
8. They make sure that they never overeat or undereat
People in top shape know well that starving yourself is not a good idea. Are you hungry again soon after your lunch or dinner? Try to include more fiber in your diets, such as vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. These ensure that you feel satiated for longer. Still hungry? Keep healthy snacks on hand so you can eat without feeling guilty or craving sweets.
On the other hand, overeating is also not a good idea. It makes you lazy, tired and it prevents digestion. Try to take your time for a meal and stop eating as soon as you feel full.
9. They do workouts for pleasure
Rather than seeing it as a dreaded part of their to-do list, fit people do at least one sport that they genuinely look forward to. Not because they have to, but because they want to. For some, it is an intense spin session, for others, it is a calming yoga class or an exuberant dance party. Find an activity that you enjoy doing and that suits you so that you do it effectively and keep it up.
10. They know what they deserve
We often have trouble keeping up with our resolutions because we simply don’t see ourselves as the type to go for an early jog with a healthy smoothie afterward. Fit people have confidence in themselves and their discipline because they know their bodies deserve a healthy lifestyle. That makes it easier to keep good intentions. You, too, deserve a fit life and body, and it is within your reach. You are even just a few good habits away from it.
