Lose the festive flab for a better and fitter 2024
The New Year sees many hoping to shake off the festive kilos and get back into physical shape after the overindulgences of the holidays.
But, for some, the commitment to hit the ground running as the year takes off on a busy note is easier said than done.
Enter Gqeberha health and fitness fundi Kayleen Lottering, who has an easy eight-step programme for anyone looking to enjoy a fitness-inspired 2024.
“Many [have come to] realise the importance of wellness,” Lottering said.
“But being busy, it might not always be possible for some whose focus is to look like someone they admire on social media, to achieve a flat stomach or [nice] figure.
“[Consequently], they can’t get into a full-fledged nutrition programme or prescribed exercise plan.”
The veteran gym freak, who occasionally hosts popular pop-up classes at Kings Beach, believes one should focus on the bigger picture.
“Shift your focus from wanting the perfect body to wanting to have the ability to pick up your groceries comfortably or walk up the stairs unassisted,” she said.
“Aim for good posture to prevent long-term injuries, walk without a cane when you are older or sit and stand unaided.
“Train for the bigger picture. “The aesthetics will follow as you consistently go along, with enough daily 15-20 minute exercises.”
Lottering sets out eight steps to help kick-start the year with a clearer wellness outlook.
Set attainable goals
Start by looking at your daily and weekly schedule, and see where you can include 15-20 minutes of a workout you can do daily. Write out attainable goals Write down your weekly exercise plan and stick it where visible. This willl help you remember whether it is your walking or aerobics day, for instance.
Get an ‘accountability’ partner
Find someone to join you, even for indoor workouts.
They become someone you can share accountability with, and you can motivate each other to get up and keep moving, making reaching your target and level of consistency easier.
Mix up your routine
Try a new fitness activity every month or every second month to keep things fun and help keep you going without making exercise boring.
Track your progress
Have a fitness journal to track your progress, that is, how many kilometres you walked/jogged and how many calories you have burned during exercise.
Tracking progress after each activity helps you gauge if you are on the right track and will motivate you to do more.
Prioritise rest days
Your body needs to recuperate and fully adjust to the new lifestyle. It is also a chance for your body to repair and help to prevent injury.
Besides resting your mind, it curbs over-exercising, which can tire the mind as much as the body.
Reward yourself
Rewarding yourself is vital to maintaining a balanced wellness regime. Have your favourite greasy meal and your chocolate cake, and eat it, too.
Don’t deprive yourself of your ultimate favourites, but have them in moderation and strictly as a reward.
Seek professional help
Unsure where to start? Consult a professional and certified trainer to help guide you. This will ensure you define attainable goals according to your needs, as your needs differ from the next person’s.
Lottering confesses the eight tips to achieving the perfect “Instagram body” are not for the faint of heart and require commitment.
“It is all about balance. One cannot go without the other.
“When we are extremely health conscious, all routines are followed to a T, as well as when we indulge in our favourite cheat meals.
“Enjoy the journey that each day brings and reap the benefits of leading a healthy lifestyle to be the best version of yourself.
“Not only now, but in the golden years to come,” she said.