Although spring isn’t for another month, the way the weather has been acting, it definitely feels a lot more like spring than winter. This time of year provides the perfect opportunity to revamp your fitness and diet routine – so let’s spring clean!
Many of us tend to re-commit to diet and fitness right after the ball drops on New Year’s Eve. The promise of a new year and a new start drives many of us to lay out an intricate roadmap of diet and fitness goals for the new calendar year. While there is nothing wrong with following this classic pattern of recommitment, many of us then face three or four more months of cold, wintry conditions during this critical time. It takes more effort to get up and go for a run when it is icy, snowy, and downright freezing outside. So here we are – springtime is upon us, temperatures are soaring to comfortable levels, and the world seems more alive and inviting for those of us who like to get out and enjoy the fitness opportunities that lay ahead. If you’re looking to “spring clean” your fitness and diet routine, this is the perfect time! Read on for some key tips on how to refine your personal sense of well-being:
Fitness
Buy new workout or running clothes – shopping feels good, but shopping with a purpose just makes sense. Runners and athletes of all types understand the need for proper-fitting, high quality shoes. Take the opportunity to shop for and purchase new shoes and workout clothes for the new season. You’ll look great, feel incredible, and it’s one more motivator to ensure you stay on track with your fitness routine.
Revamp your exercise playlist – Many of us like to rock out while we run or train, so spark a sense of “fitness renewal” with a new playlist on your music player. You can try out high-energy songs from the Top 20 List, or create a playlist of classic tracks that you’ve always loved. The trick is to keep it fresh. Men’s Health put together a list of the 20 best running songs, that’s definitely a good start.
Try something new – While many of us run for the fitness benefits and the sense of balance and peace that running provides, don’t be afraid to try a different sport, too! Take up swimming to up your endurance factor, racquetball for the intense cardio workout, or softball for the camaraderie that develops. Another fun activity that is now very popular is parkour, which is becoming more mainstream.
Workout with new friends – Take the opportunity to invite several acquaintances and new friends along for a run or brief workout. You’ll be able to see who motivates you, who shares similar goals, and who is pleasant and fun to workout with. Make sure you surround yourself with those who will push you to excel, but will also add to the fun of a great workout.
Diet
Spring clean that pantry – Part of contributing to a sense of overall well-being and fitness is stocking your home with the right foods, supplements, and drinks. Take the time to go through your pantry and refrigerator and throw away any perishable foods that aren’t contributing to your overall health. You can donate any sealed foods to local food banks – but take the time to remove overly processed items, low nutritional value foods, and anything that inhibits your ultimate fitness goals.
Get to the Farmer’s Market – This time of year ushers in the joy of the Farmer’s Market. Fresh, healthy fruits and vegetables are an important part of any fitness and diet routine, so make sure you stock up now – and thank a Farmer while you’re at it!
Spring cleaning goes way beyond dusting off the shelves, cleaning out the basement, and organizing the garage. This is the time to revamp your fitness and diet routines, and the perfect season to get outside and enjoy the abundant sunshine.