When we think of “working out,” we tend to think of strength training or sweating it out on the StairMaster. And, don’t get me wrong—those are awesome options…

IF you genuinely like them.

But they aren’t your only options, and if you want to start working out and make it stick, I’d recommend thinking outside the box and finding something you actually look forward to.

Grab a pen and paper, set a timer for 5 minutes, and brainstorm things that you enjoy. Try not to overthink it, and write down whatever comes to mind—could be anything: hanging out with friends, spending time in nature, etc.

Once you have your list, do a little research and look for workouts that meet one or more of your criteria.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

- Dance Class
- Hiking
- Rollerblading
- Rock Climbing
- Tennis
- Kickboxing
- Circuit Training
- Outdoor Yoga
- Spinning

Find any matches?

If so, start off slow—and make sure to add it to your calendar as if it were an appointment. This will help you hold yourself accountable on days when you’re tired or unmotivated.

And if not…

Keep looking! There’s a “right” workout for everyone. It’s just a matter of finding it, and your body and mind will thank you once you do.

To many of us, “eating healthy” means cutting out sugar, cutting out fat, or counting every calorie we consume. It’s all about limitations…

But sticking to a diet like that takes a TON of willpower, which is why they often end with us saying “Whatever” and stopping for fast food at the nearest drive through on the way home from work.

Instead, I want to focus on two things here:

1. What You Can Add In:
Instead of cutting out unhealthy food, try adding healthy ones, like fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean protein in.

And…

2. Making It Easy:
Think about that in your own situation: Where can you add more?

Maybe your morning routine includes rolling up for a fast-food breakfast sandwich. Next time you go, order a fruit cup, too. Especially in the beginning, let it be that easy.

It takes between 9-15 years to become a licensed doctor. Why? Because the human body is complicated. That’s why it’s so important to have people helping you with the right information.

Here are the 3 types of people to have on your Physical Wellness team:

Doctor: You need a medical professional who knows their stuff, who knows you as a person, and who knows
how to explain medical information in a way you can understand. This needs to be someone you trust. Someone who genuinely wants you to be healthy—not someone who sees you as a meal ticket or just another face in the crowd.
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Here are a few questions you should ask yourself when it comes to finding the right doctor to speak into your life:

- Does my doctor know my name? Do they recognize me when I come in the room?

- Does my doctor listen to what I say? Do they hear me when I describe my symptoms, or do they just get out the prescription pad and tell me to try the next pharmaceutical?

- Does my doctor have time in their schedule to fit me in? Am I able to make appointments in a reasonable amount of time?

- Does my doctor understand nutrition? Do they recognize the connection between what I eat and how I feel?

- When I listen to my doctor and do what they say, does it help? Do I get better?

Nutritionist: Many of us don’t feel confident when it comes to identifying and eating the right foods for our bodies. There are so many fads out there and so many opinions flying around that we can easily feel confused.

A nutritionist can help you put together a plan for fueling your specific body. You’ll understand what to eat, but also why certain foods affect you in certain ways. You will literally become an informed consumer, and your health with benefit.

Personal Trainer: Your personal trainer will know things you don’t know and see things you don’t see, making them an invaluable voice in your Physical Wellness. Plus, they can provide some much-needed motivation when we’re in a rut.

And if you’re worried about the cost, most gyms include consultations with a personal trainer as part of your membership.