Health and Fitness Improvements to Consider for the New Year

by EARTHA

Regardless of whether you've made new year resolutions to improve your health and fitness, there are some things we may want to consider improving on. It doesn't hurt to take a look at our current status and figure out what could use some work. Below are some things to consider focusing on that you may overlook as fitness becomes a priority.

1. Flexibility - I admit, I am still very weak in this area. I always tell myself I need to work on stretching more but it is so easy to skip. Improved flexibility can help decrease risk of injury, muscle soreness, as well as improve overall physical performance.

2. Strength - One reason for deciding to get fit is to look better. However, simply packing on muscle and carving your physique doesn't mean you're strong. Improving your strength through strength training holds many benefits such as increasing bone density, increasing metabolic rate, and maintaining muscle mass.

3. Resting heart rate - A low heart rate at rest has been used as a measurement of efficient heart function and better cardiovascular fitness. A normal resting heart rate ranges between 60 to 100 beats a minute, while an athlete's resting heart rate may be around 40 beats a minute. Keep in mind that other factors could effect heart rate to include age, sex, medication.

4. Diet - Our eating habits can make or break our fitness progress. Working out regularly but continuing to eat junk is not a good combination. Improving our diets doesn't have to be difficult. You can incorporate better eating habits slowly and allow yourself to indulge in your favorite foods once in awhile. If you need ideas on how to eat better, research eating clean or the paleo diet.

5. Core strength - Core muscles support the spine and power all of our movements. Improving core strength benefits can include: improved balance and stability, reduced risk of injury, reduced back problems, and improved overall function on a daily basis.

What are some fitness improvements that you plan on focusing on?