The beginning of the new year is a great time to make a fresh start, and for many Americans, that means writing a new chapter in the health and wellness department. But a staggering 80% of the resolutions set at midnight on the last day of the year fizzle out by the second week of February. Here are a few ways to make sure that you’ll be committed to your healthy pursuits—and will make them a permanent part of your life.
- Begin a sustainable form of exercise. It’s no secret that exercise improves overall health. Walking at a moderate pace is a safe and effective way to build health. Other forms of movement are complementary to walking – such as Pilates and yoga. Pilates and yoga both offer beneficial muscle strengthening, lengthening, and overall conditioning. If you’re uncertain as to where your abilities lie, a private session or two can help you get started. Riding a bike is also a great, low-impact way to exercise. Ensuring that your bike (no matter the type) is properly fitted is important for injury prevention. No matter how you choose to exercise, find an activity you love and you’re sure to be more consistent throughout the year.
- You don’t have to go it alone. It’s OK to get some help along the way. We’re biased, but physical therapists have the background and training to help you achieve a healthier lifestyle. Physical therapists can help people gain strength and get moving again. Many older adults experience vulnerabilities associated with muscle weakness—due to lack of activity, hospitalization, or surgery. This can cause problems with walking, balance, and other everyday activities, which in turn increases the risk of falls. Younger populations returning to sport also experience difficulties getting back to their fullest potential. No matter your age or your activity, studies show that a challenging program offers the most benefit. Physical therapists help match an exercise program to your abilities. When you can do a task easily, the PT will add challenge by adding resistance, repetitions, or new exercises. Stay on your feet, get back on that bike, and return to your athletic endeavor in a safer, more effective manner!
- Stay engaged and follow through on your goals. No one ever said that change is easy. In fact, even the smallest of adjustments—like, going to bed half an hour earlier every night or walking for 15 minutes every day—take discipline. If you find that you’ve lost your motivation or fallen off track, experts say that you don’t need to wait until next year to resolve to be healthier. A study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that Mondays are the best day of the week to celebrate a new beginning—and because they come every week, there are 52 chances a year to press the reset button! So, don’t get discouraged by the inevitable minor setback—instead, dust yourself off and get back at it.
If you or someone you know needs a little help either getting back on track or finally getting to the bottom of that nagging pain so that you can reach your goals in 2019, let us know. Whether it’s persistent knee pain, an aching back, or perhaps concerns related to pelvic health, Elizabeth and her associates, Lauren and Kelsea, are ready and willing to help. Call us today!
