Spring Into a Healthy Lifestyle

By: Gwen Vecchione

Here are a few general tips to help anyone trying to maintain a healthier lifestyle this spring from our Certified Personal Trainer and Licensed Massage Therapist, Gwen Vecchione:

• Drink plenty of water

• Eat less processed foods and more plants

• If trying to lose fat, create a calorie deficit (of about 250 calories or more daily)

• If trying to gain weight, create a calorie surplus (of about 150 calories or more daily)

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle with cardio/weight training 3-5 times per week

• It is important to warm up with dynamic stretching and cool down with static stretching to prevent injuries

• Start with simple routines (2-3 sets of 12 or more reps with less than 70% of full strength) to build up strength endurance

• Compound (multi-joint) exercises like squats or bench press are great for fat loss/strength gains

• Consistency is key

• Meditation or yoga practices can help with the mind-body connection

• Consult with a healthcare professional before starting or changing any lifestyle change