We know we should exercise regularly, sleep more and eat better, but in today’s hectic world, it’s easier said than done. Top personal trainer and weightlifting champ Acton McKenley (www.trainwithacton.com, IG: @trainwithacton) comes to the rescue, with eight useful tips for simple routines that help you lead a healthier life.
1. Work out in the morning.
Get those endorphins flowing by exercising at the start of the day. Wake up early and get your session in before you become preoccupied with other commitments. Morning workouts will have you feeling accomplished, energised and put you in a good mood for the day ahead.
2. Make your workouts a social event.
Plan a group workout with friends and colleagues. You can help hold each other accountable. Having friends and colleagues along for the workout will ensure you’re having fun. If you’re having fun, chances are, you’ll be back for more.
3. Exercise during daily activities.
To burn those extra calories and get those steps in, take the stairs instead of taking a lift. If you live close to work, try to walk there. Perform regular activities while moving. For example, take work calls while walking (outside or on a treadmill).
4. Be time efficient with your workout.
High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is a great option for people with limited time. HIIT has been shown to not only burn calories during the workout but also after. That means you can work out for a shorter duration but still burn the same or more calories than you would during a steady state cardio workout.
5. Plan eating options in advance.
If you’re super busy and cannot prepare meals a day or two in advance, consider a meal prepping service. They offer a diverse menu, delivery to your home or work, and some even cater to your specific macro nutrient needs. If a meal prep service is a little too pricey, you can research healthier eating options near work. Knowing what you’re going to eat ahead of time will help limit poor eating options, especially when you’re on the go.
6. Exercise at home.
You can put together or find online an intense bodyweight circuit. Even if your time is limited, you can perform some, most or all of the workout. Every little bit helps. Another option is to invest in some resistance bands and light dumbbells to intensify the workout.
7. Have a refillable water bottle.
Water is essential to health and well-being. Stay hydrated by carrying a refillable bottle of water wherever you go. The bigger, the better. Having a large bottle will limit the times you need to refill.
8. Earn your guilty pleasure.
As a reward for performing physical activity, enjoy your guilty pleasure. For example, try walking to that dessert shop or spinning as you watch your favourite Netflix series.
