In my 30 years working within the fitness industry, it has been a fascinating topic of research to delve into why some people maintain a consistent level of health and fitness while others tend to jump on the latest diet craze, toggling between the mountaintop and the valley. This tends to result in perpetual discouragement and can negatively affect our health, making it that much harder to try again. How do we exit the roller coaster and make lasting changes that will truly enhance our quality of life? Below are behaviors I have observed in those who have been successful long term in maintaining a fit lifestyle.ne term many of us are acquainted with is “fitness is a lifestyle.” We understand there are no quick solutions to health; yet, we live in a culture characterized by instant gratification and the idea that permanently changing behavior can be a challenge, especially later in life when habits tend to be ingrained and harder to break.
Fit people set goals, write them down and keep track of progress.
Fit people surround themselves with like-minded individuals who keep them motivated and inspired.
Fit people look for ways to be active, rather than looking for an excuse to be sedentary.
Fit people have created a lifestyle around activity and sound nutrition, avoiding the latest diet craze and subsequent drastic fluctuations in body weight.
Fit people make a plan and do not allow the busy nature of life to interfere with the priority of taking care of themselves; in fact, they make it priority No. 1. They have the routine built into their schedule and stick to it.
Fit people find activities they both enjoy and from which they receive physical benefit. Then they spend time in the gym, training for that activity to increase proficiency and ensure safety.
Fit people see food first as fuel, then as an enjoyable part of life and make sure to eat foods that provide high nutrition at a low caloric cost.
Fit people plan vacations that include physical activity and maintain an awareness of portion control with food and beverages to avoid excessive weight gain.
Fit people see clothing that begins to tighten as a need to intensify the fitness program rather than a reason to go shopping for a bigger size.
Fit people look for opportunities to stay active during the day, such as parking farther from the store or taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
Fit people understand the concept that health is a journey that starts when your feet hit the floor each morning and encompasses the decisions made all day long, which ultimately affect not only quantity of life but also the quality we enjoy. Fitness is freedom! QCBN
By Lisa Fry
Lisa Fry is the Health & Fitness Director for Touchmark at The Ranch. Her responsibilities include overseeing the Touchmark Health & Fitness Club, which is starting a 100-day fitness challenge on Aug. 13 that will include classes, course materials and inspiration. The Club is open to anyone 50-plus years. To reach Fry or for more information, call 928-708-3133.