With the new year often comes a host of resolutions to lead a healthier lifestyle. But how do you make those resolutions stick? The American Psychological Association suggests: Write your pledges down so you can hold yourself accountable. Start small and set realistic goals. Change behaviors one at a time Enlist a friend for support… read on >
A goal like having a flat stomach may give you the initial impetus to start exercising, but may not be enough to keep you on track. For that you need “intrinsic motivation” — being motivated from within by enjoying fitness and valuing it. Below are key steps to building that drive to exercise. 1. Enjoy… read on >
You may not want to sit down for this. New research finds the mere act of standing burns more calories over time compared to sitting, and anyone bent on weight loss may want to remain upright a few more hours each day. In fact, standing for six hours each day — at a ‘standing desk’… read on >
Yet another reason to get your child off the couch: Fit children have healthier lungs later, new research suggests. “This study shows that children who are physically fit go on to have better lung function as young adults,” said lead researcher Bob Hancox. “We think that this could reduce the risk of them developing chronic… read on >
Still looking for a New Year’s resolution? Consider strength training. It’s important for everyone, regardless of age, gender and how developed you do and don’t want to get. Strong muscles make everyday activities easier and allow you to maintain your independence throughout life. But you don’t have to go to a gym to get in… read on >
If children adopt active lifestyles at a young age, they are less likely to become obese as adults, research shows. One in three children is overweight or obese, the American Academy of Pediatrics says. The group adds that children and teens spend an average of seven hours per day using TVs, computers, phones and other… read on >
While you might think most people would try to change unhealthy behaviors after a major health scare like a stroke, new research suggests most people don’t. They may even pick up worse habits. Fewer than 1 in 100 stroke survivors met all seven heart-health goals identified by the American Heart Association. And just 1 in… read on >
Commuting by car doesn’t just try your patience. An Australian study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that it can also lead to weight gain, even if you’re active on the weekends. One answer is to turn at least part of your commute into a workout. As cities with municipal bike programs… read on >
If you’ve just shed a lot of pounds, you might want to hold off on buying a new wardrobe full of “thin” clothes. That’s because new research finds that lost weight starts creeping back almost immediately after a diet stops. “We noticed that individuals transitioned from a weight loss intervention immediately to weight gain,” said… read on >
Don’t let cold weather keep you from being active — that’s a surefire route to winter weight gain. Exercise keeps you healthy, trim and happy, and it’s a great antidote to the gray-weather doldrums. With the right layers of clothing, walking in a winter wonderland can be fun. But in bad weather, head over to… read on >
