Summer is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the warm, sunny weather! In this installment of our monthly blog series, the human resources experts at MedHQ share ideas and best practices for making the most of the season – while encouraging a healthy, active lifestyle.
Whether you need to lose weight, or you want to improve your mood, regular exercise can help. The results are determined by the amount of effort you put in. Engage in activities that you enjoy, and your body will repay you:
- Healthy heart and lungs
- Strong bones
- Flexible, strong muscles and joints
- Weight loss
- More energy and endurance
In addition to exercise, it is also important to maintain a healthy weight, and a balanced diet. Simple dietary changes can lead to incredible results. Here are some examples of dietary adjustments:
- Implement red, dark-green and orange veggies into your diet
- Cut fat and calories by switching to skim or low-fat dairy
- Check food labels for added sugars
- Eat lean-white meat instead of red meat
- Pay attention to serving sizes
- Stop eating when satisfied
When you are more active, you’ll be surprised at how much better you feel. Aim to slowly add to your workouts so you can better meet your goals. Try these tips to step up your game:
- Go from brisk walking to jogging
- Swim or bike faster than your previous workout
- Add pushups and squats twice a week
- Walk an extra 15 minutes more per week
- Mix in new ideas to change it up, such as playing catch, martial arts or gardening
Click here to read the full newsletter which includes an easy-to-read calorie/activity chart that features calories burned during moderate or vigorous physical activity.