7 Habits of Highly Fit People that You Can Easily Do

Creating healthy habits — SNORE.

It just sounds so BORING, nothing like the sparkle and pizazz of “10 minute abs” or “lose 5lbs overnight”, so our eyes glaze over just waiting for all kinds of hard things we need to do to find this magical land of healthy habits.

I say hogwash and that’s why we’re going back to basics.

I wanted to know what some of my long time fit friends do to stay on track year round and couldn’t agree more with the themes that I saw rise to the top.Let’s see how little things can add up for big changes {minus all the stress!} The lifestyle of fit people is surprisingly easy to begin implementing for everyone. Largely because the reason they can maintain it year round is through keeping things simple and making them habits.

Focus on Quality Sleep

“My healthy living starts with my mental health. I take care of myself by trying to get 8 hours of sleep every night. When I’m well-rested, my mind is more clear, my outlook is more positive, and I feel more capable of facing life’s challenges.”  – Sharon

Personally, I LOVE to sleep. One area I never skimp on is what helps me to sleep which is a great pillow and a comfy mattress topper. When you think about how much sleep is going to improve your entire life it’s totally worth spending a little more for quality.
Top tips for getting better sleep >>

Spend a Few Minutes Pre-Planning

”I make sure I have enough healthy snacks for work, so I’m not tempted by the donuts, etc. that always seem to find their way into the office!” Mo Faller

Since this was one of the biggest areas people told me they struggle with I think a full planning post is needed, but a few of my favorite tips!

• Determine how many meals you actually need (are you going out with friends, have work lunches, other events that mean you are away from home)
• Cook in bulk so you have leftovers and can freeze some for those rush nights later
• Keep it simple – not every recipe needs to be a masterpiece

Read more on finding your meal planning style>>
Get 100’s of healthy crockpot meal ideas>>

Create a Consistent Schedule

”For me it’s important to have a set schedule each week of days I run and strength train. When fitness becomes part of your daily routine like brushing your teeth, it’s a lot easier to stay on track.” – Deborah

Get a fun journal or a calendar to keep track. There is something insanely satisfying about putting a giant X on a day where you’ve completed a workout. In fact, the very successful Jerry Seinfeld calls this process “don’t break the chain”.

Focus on Movement Outside the Workout

”Taking the dog for a walk every day means I’m moving without even thinking about the dreaded ‘exercise’ word.” – Anna
Personally, I decided every day when getting the mail I would walk down the seven flights of stairs and back up the seven flights of stairs it’s not really anything all that major all that crazy but it’s seven flights of stairs every single day for an entire year that I wasn’t getting before.

The goal is simply find little things you do and make them just a little bit bigger.

• Squats while you brush your teeth
• Stretching while you watch tv
• Walking to do errands

The daily routine of fit people simply involves moving more all day long, even in little ways that add up. A few more minutes with the pup or start standing up throughout the day! I love how the standing desk adds just a bit more movement to my day and of course ups the calorie burn.

Read more on using a standing desk >>

Understand the Value of Cross Training

”Historically I’d say that cross training is important but rarely prioritized it. This time around I have done at least an hour of yoga each week and at least two cross training workouts which have included swimming, cycling or weights. The key has been finding a few workouts that are simple to follow yet effective. My two favorite weight workouts are my 5 minute full body workout, which I squeeze in 3-4 times per week and my 30 minute arms & abs workout.” – Ashley

She couldn’t be more right! While I have gone through phases of being better and worse about this over the last 12 years, recently it’s been a consistent focus and I can’t wait to see it pay off in faster times and no more injuries!!
Best cardio cross training for runners >>
Best body weight workouts for runners >>
30 Day ab challenge >>

Enjoy Some Hot Tea

“When I’m feeling snacky, I pull out my mug and some green tea.” – Laura

That’s right EATING is part of the easy healthy things that fit people do! Studies have shown that holding something warm makes us feel calmer and a drink like hot tea can’t be guzzled so we have to slow down, which can have a calming effect!

Of course there are a ton of health benefits to enjoying green tea or a daily cup of joe, but this is more about a happy spirit, which let’s be honest leads to less hands in the cookie jar. So wrap em around a mug for an instant mood booster.

Checkout how hot tea can help with weight loss>>

Now I want to hear from you, what’s missing and
How many of these healthy habits do you practice?

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