This Is What Making Healthy Choices Actually Looks Like
It’s not about restrictive diets or harsh exercise programs. It’s about the little steps you make every day.
By Amanda MacFarlane, Marketing Intern
It’s the beginning of February and by a show of hands, who has already broken their New Year’s resolutions to be healthier? *Raises hand*
The truth is that for those of us who make these goals to change at the start of the new year, there is a ton of pressure to do it all now or to immediately change into the fittest, healthiest, most clean-eating version of ourselves. It’s hard work trying to make it to the finish line when we’ve only just started.
If you’re in need of some motivation to maintain your resolutions (or to recommit to your original goals), here are 15 real people across the state of Texas taking charge of their health.
Each one of these Texans pledged to participate in the sixth annual IT’S TIME TEXAS Community Challenge, a free statewide competition running from January 8 to March 4. All of them have come together, supporting and holding accountable members of their own communities to build healthier lives.
From the inspiring elementary school teacher to the enthusiastic senior sneakers class, they prove that taking charge of your health can look as diverse and as unique as the individuals involved. Their healthy selfies show that making healthy choices happens in your day-to-day life and not just on Instagram. Check their healthy selfies below!
- Grabbing a partner! Stay motivated by having someone else to hold you accountable, and do the same for that person, too.
- Challenging yourself! Grab those heavy weights. You’ve got this!
- Inspiring others! Use your influence to encourage others in your workplace, classroom, or community.
- Drinking water! Enjoy a glass of water with each meal and snack to make sure you are getting your 8 glasses a day.
- Making time! Don’t let a busy schedule demotivate you from getting a quick workout in.
- Having a positive attitude! Exercise can sometimes be a dreaded activity, but keeping a smile on your face can help you have more fun.
- Rallying the troops! Get your community together to do a group workout.
- Not letting anything stop you! No matter your age or experience level, doing a small amount each day can add up over time.
- Getting outside! Go for a walk or ride your bike while enjoying the fresh air.
- Adding veggies to your plate! Eating vegetables helps you get the nutrients you need.
- Having fun! Playing basketball or engaging in another exciting activity will motivate you to get on your feet.
- Staying Hydrated! Make sure you bring a water bottle with you when you head to your work out.
- Snacking on fruit! Bring an apple, orange, or banana to work or school for a healthy snack.
- Bring your four legged friend! Working out can benefit you and your dog. Go for a walk and get two things on your to-do list done.
- Snacking right! Bringing a piece of fruit or granola bar to work is a great way to ensure you are staying on track all day.
There’s still time to register and participate in this year’s Community Challenge! Visit ittcommunitychallenge.com to register for free, today.