Here’s the biggest lesson I’ve learned from over a decade in the fitness industry: A healthy life doesn’t require a six-minute mile, six-pack abs, or superfood salad for every single meal. The more complicated and difficult we make “health,” the harder it becomes to be healthy. That’s why I’m stripping away all the superfluities below so you can focus on the best habits of healthy people. Add these pro tips to your daily routine, and you’ll be well on your way to a lifetime of healthy living.
Read on to learn more about the key habits of healthy people, and next, check out The 6 Best Exercises for Strong and Toned Arms in 2022, Trainer Says.
Although exercise is valuable, it only takes up a few hours each week at most. What about the rest of your time? How you spend those other hours can still affect your health. Keep in mind that people who live sedentary lives are at risk of many serious health issues.
Move and move often! It’s great for your body, your waistline, and even your mental health. Take breaks to stretch and walk around. Use the stairs instead of the elevator. Dance. Remember: Life happens outside of the gym.
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Whether it’s a Mediterranean, Paleo, or gluten-free diet, they all share one important rule: Eat a variety of real foods. On the one hand, lean meats, fish, veggies, grains, and fruits that don’t come from a box or can are loaded with vitamins, nutrients, fiber, and more to support your health. On the other hand, a diet full of processed junk foods can lead to higher risks of diabetes and heart disease.
Always eat real foods for most of your meals. Doing so will help you look and feel better.
Stress levels are rising around the world. Too much stress is linked to a variety of health issues from high blood pressure and heart disease, to depression and even skin issues like acne.
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Find a few minutes every day to relax, unwind, and recharge. Try a mindfulness practice, which can decrease anxiety and lower blood pressure. Happy people are healthier people. Having a positive outlook can even lower your risk of coronary heart disease, diabetes, heart attacks, stroke, and infections.
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The human body is made up of about 60% water. That’s why proper hydration is so important for your overall health and well-being. But even the smallest level of dehydration can impact your mood, energy, and health.
Drink plenty of water, and avoid too many sugary beverages. While your recommended amount of water depends on activity levels, gender, climate, etc., an easy rule is to drink enough so your urine is light yellow.
Sleep is critical for your physical and mental health. It’s when your muscles repair, your cells repair, your body heals, and a lot more. Yet according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about one in three American adults don’t get enough sleep, which can increase the risk of issues like heart disease, obesity, and stroke.
Get seven to nine hours of good sleep every night. Practice good sleep hygiene, and avoid bright electronics before bed or too much caffeine late in the day.
Anthony J. Yeung
Anthony J. Yeung, CSCS, is a fitness expert featured in Esquire, GQ, and Men’s Health and the founder of GroomBuilder, the destination for men who want to transform their bodies for their weddings. Join the free 5-day course to burn fat and build muscle for the big day! Read more
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