Get Moving in 2014!!

With the beginning of the New Year comes New Years Resolutions. Last year, 45% of Americans made resolutions and 38% of them were weight related. Multiple studies have shown a strong link between excess body weight and cancer. Excess body weight has been shown to affect hormone levels, immune system function and inflammation. While research on the effect of of losing weight is minimal, there is growing evidence that weight loss may reduce the risk of more aggressive prostate cancers.

How to Stick to Your Exercise Resolutions:

1. Take Baby Steps - Don't cannon ball into the deep end! Start slow and ease into your plan. Jumping in too quickly can result in burn out. Try to make your exercise part of your everyday routine. Just like any new habit, it may take some time for it to become natural but it can definitely be done. If your starting from scratch, start with daily 10 minute walks and slowly build up to 30.

2. Enlist Help - Meeting up with a friend for a walk or a yoga class will keep you more accountable. Other  options include joining a a running club or enlisting the help of a personal trainer.

3. Make Frequent Achievable Goals - Set a number of minutes, miles, or workout sessions to reach for each month. Track your progress to ensure you are still on track.  Each time you meet a goal, bump up your number just a little for the following month.

4. Keep it Interesting - Frequently change up your activity to not only keep you engaged, but to also make it more beneficial for your body. Constantly doing new, yet fitness level appropriate, forms of exercise will keep your body guessing and tends to show better results. For example, try out that paddle-boarding or yoga class you've been meaning to try. Even if it isn't your regular form of exercise, it is a fun and active way to take a step closer to your fitness goals.