Seems like everyone has set some form of self-improvement goal for the new year, whether it be to lose weight or just get in better shape. Katie Knobbe, a nutrition and wellness specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach says there are some simple tricks to staying the course. Knobbe said the most prominent complaint she hears is that people just don’t have the time to maintain the level of commitment needed for long-term change. She said there are a couple of very simple tips to help with that.
Make sure you have the basic items you need and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to easily and quickly create meals and snacks. She said another time saver is to batch cook some of your staple items and freeze them. That way, they are there and ready when you find yourself in a time crunch. She said other things you can do are look for ways to alter the ingredients you add to convenience foods with lower amounts or healthier options and to look to healthy frozen items that are pre-prepped and will last longer. When it comes to exercising, Knobbe said it is important to be realistic.
Be sure and give yourself rewards for reaching goals as well. Whether it is a massage or a new piece of clothing, be proud and celebrate your successes. One of the most important things you can do, Knobbe said, is gather support.
There are a variety of apps available to help keep you on track as well, and Knobbe said she likes My Fitness Pal for tracking food and activity and Map My Run or Ride for tracking distances and speeds and saving routes. If you would like more information or have questions, contact Knobbe at 712-263-4697 or by email at knobbe@iastate.edu.
