So here we are, 2012. Another January, another gym joined, another bunch of resolutions made and a year stretching out in front of is into the yonder. But to look forward successfully, we have to look back. If you hit December hard, if the thought of no alcohol or turkey for a little while excites you because indulgence got the better of you, then understand that it’s going to be tough to begin with.
Here are my 5 Top Tips:
1. Push on Through
Like roller coasters, balloons, footballs and moods, if it goes up it has to come down. The 3rd law of physics states that “for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.” In other words, for every high there is a low to balance it out. The comprehension of this allows us to understand the all too often forlornness of January. It is simply an equal reaction to the mayhem of December. Push on through, the light at the end of the tunnel is just around the next corner.
2. Exercise
Yeah, yeah, I know. We are / I am always going to extoll the virtues of exercise and shoe horn it in whenever the opportunity presents itself. Well what can I say? Exercising produces serotonin, our happy hormone; it boosts our metabolism, it detoxifies us through sweating and it drops the unsightly products of Santa and all he brings with him.
3. Get Out More
Days are short and sunlight is in shorter supply. But the crisp, winter days are often, ironically, sunnier than our wet summers in the UK. Wrap up warm and get out of the house. Let the skin absorb the sunlight available, produce the vitamin D we need and elevate our mood. Whilst your out…did I mention exercise?
4. Sleeeeeep
Recovery is key both physically AND mentally so get your 6-8 hours as a rule, and start these 6-8 hours before midnight.
5. Eat Fresh and Hydrate
Saturate your body and let it wash away your sins. Combine this with fresh fruit and veg, steer clear of refined foods, processed foods and alcohol and get yourself back on an even keel.
Preparation for all of this is of paramount importance and, remember, it takes 6 weeks to form the basis of a habit and 12 weeks for it to set itself into a routine. Stay strong, be focused, smile as much as you can and, I may have already mentioned this, but let a little fitness into your life.
Happy New Year everyone, make 2012 what you want it to be…
Matthew Powell
Matthew has managed health and fitness teams and operations in 5 star resorts in the Caribbean and Middle East, run a personal training business for over 15 years and currently owns a fitness consultancy in South Wales and the West. He has worked with celebrities and some of the wealthiest men in the world whilst still keeping his hand in group exercise, teaching Indoor Cycle, Circuits, Fitness Yoga and combat based classes. Follow Matthew on twitter @mattypowell. www.quantumphysiques.co.uk
