5 Tips for Starting an Active Lifestyle

Are you looking for ways to get in shape and improve your health? If so, you're not alone. A lot of people struggle with getting started on an active lifestyle. It can be tough to know where to begin. With that said, being active has countless benefits, including reducing your risk of chronic diseases, improving your mental health, and increasing your lifespan.

There are also mental benefits that emanate from activeness. Exercise has improved mood, cognitive function, and sleep quality. So, not only will you improve your physical health by being active, but your mental health as well.

Now, let's talk about some tips that will help you get started.

1. Take It Slow

Depending on the level of your fitness, start with a few minutes of activity each day and gradually increase as you get more comfortable.

Remember, even a tiny amount of activity is better than none at all. Start by adding a short walk to your daily routine or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. As your body adjusts, you can begin increasing activity.

Don't forget to warm up before you start exercising and cool down when you're finished. Warming up and cooling down helps your body to prepare for and recover from physical activity which can help to eliminate cramping or pulled muscles. 

2. Mix It Up

If you do the same thing all the time, you're likely to get bored and give up. There are so many different types of exercise out there.

Some people prefer individual sports such as running, biking, or swimming. Others prefer group fitness classes or team sports. Even people enjoy working out at home with workout DVDs or online programs. If your routine begins to feel stale, don’t be afraid to mix it up. 

And, if you're not sure what type of exercise you want to do, try a few different things and see what works best for you.

You can even change the activities you do, the intensity of your workouts, the amount of time you spend exercising, or even where you work out.

3. Pair It With a Healthy Diet

It's important to eat various nutritious foods from all the food groups. This will give you the energy you need to power through your workouts and help your body recover afterward.

A healthy diet doesn't have to be boring. There are so many delicious, healthy recipes out there. And, with a little creativity, you can even make unhealthy foods healthier. For example, you can swap out regular pasta for whole wheat pasta or add some veggies to your favorite dishes.

Whenever possible, cook at home, so you know exactly what's going into your food. And, when you do eat out, consider going for baked instead of fried and a side of vegetables instead of french fries.  

It's also important to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water keeps you feeling your best and your energy levels up, and can help you avoid cramping. Whenever you're feeling hungry, try to reach for water first.

Pro tip: Everything in moderation. If you’re craving potato chips. It’s okay! But eat a handful instead of the whole bag. 

4. Be Consistent

You're not going to see the results of an active lifestyle overnight, so it's important to stick with it even when you don't feel like it. Set realistic goals for yourself and make a plan for how you're going to reach them. This will help you stay on track and motivated.

Don't beat yourself up about it if you miss a day or two. Just pick up where you left off and keep going. Remember, every little bit counts.

Consistency with your workouts and diet is a great thing. If you can do that, you'll eventually reach your goals.

5. Stretch

Stretching is important for several reasons. It helps improve your flexibility, prevents injuries, and can even help reduce stress.

Static stretches, which are done without moving, are best done after your workout when your muscles are warm. This is because your muscles are more pliable and less likely to be injured. Some people prefer to do them independently, while others like to take yoga or Pilates classes.

Compression Socks

If you're looking for a way to improve your workout, compression socks are a great option. They increase blood flow and reduce swelling helping to prevent injuries. Additionally, wearing compression socks during and after your workout can help you recover faster and feel your best. 

Dont’t worry, compression socks have come a long way–thanks to Crazy Compression. Where once they were only available in black and white, Crazy Compression started giving them personality. They make them at their facility in North Carolina and in any style or color you can imagine. Want customized socks for an upcoming 5k or for a gift? They do that too. 

Starting an active lifestyle isn’t going to be easy. But with determination and consistency, you can reach your goals. And with Crazy Compression, you can reach them in style.