How to stay fit? Good Question!
A recent FAF reader wrote to us and asked, “What are the best ways to stay healthy and fit?”
We all know that if we can get our bodies looking at least “fit”, than buying and looking good in clothes will be a lot easier! So we passed off the question to our favorite Health and Wellness Guru, Lisa Crisalle, (owner of www.OverFortyFitandFabulous.com) and here is her answer:
After 40 we generally find it more challenging to “stay on track” however here are a few quick tips to help you feel and look great (at any age)!
1st – Stay active, keep moving and choose activities that you LOVE! So, next time you go to the mall, park farther away and walk! Choose the stairs over the elevator and take advantage of the summertime and plan more outdoor activities (like hiking, biking or power walking). In fact, next time you plan time to get together with your girlfriends – meet them at a park or hiking trail with a bottle of water (instead of meeting and sharing a bottle of wine). If you have children (or a dog), take them to the park and throw a Frisbee (when is the last time you did that?) How about joining a Zumba class (never heard of it – check with your local YMCA or gym).
The key is – Have Fun!!
2nd - Choose what I call an 80/20 clean eating meal plan. What do I mean by that? Simple – 80% of the time stick to fresh produce, and unprocessed foods. Lean proteins such as chicken breasts, white fish, and lean fillet mignon, or low-fat cottage cheese. And, always combine a protein with a complex carbohydrate (rice, yams, oatmeal, multi-grain bread) and fresh vegetables. Keep your fresh fruit to mornings and lunch and avoid fruit juice.
Since it is still summer time, take advantage of your local farmer’s markets and have fun with color! Stay away from sodas at all costs, and processed foods – they will gunk you up and slow you down. That means that 20% of the time (each week), allow yourself some freedom with a nice glass of wine, a special desert, or an extra slice of bread with butter.
The key is to plan for the 20% (if you have a special event, or get-together with friends). Plan for it and you won’t “fall off the wagon.” Be sure to get right back to your 80% and you will feel amazing.
3rd – Your mindset is key. Set a goal of where you would like to be and what EXACTLY that would look like. What clothes or outfit will you be wearing, how will you feel, and how will you carry yourself? Remember, you have choices every day. Make the best choices at least 80% of the time (I truly recommend pushing it to a 90/10 split if you are truly on a mission), and that will leave you a little “fudge factor” for your special times. Use pictures as reminders and visualizing techniques are truly effective.
Most importantly, KEEP IT FUN!! Because when you feel great, you feel empowered and it is a beautiful upward spiral. ~Lisa Crisalle, CFNS
