Happy New Year 2017! How many New Yearís resolutions will be broken in fewer than 60 days? The beginning of a new year is the time to review what you did last year to improve your health. What worked and what didnít work? What can I do to improve my health this year? Take the time to have your blood work done to check all your numbers: cholesterol, blood sugar A1C (a blood test doctors use to determine your average blood sugar levels over the past three months), thyroid and blood pressure. How can I improve those numbers that are high or borderline? The first steps will incorporate more healthy foods and an exercise program that includes strength training, cardio, stretching and walking. You are the only one that can make the decision for better health. There is no magic pill that will make you healthier! That magic pill makes the companies that sell them richer, hits your pocketbook where it hurts and can even negatively affect your health.The formula for better health is simple: Healthy eating plus exercise equals improved quality of life; healthy eating (portion control and breaking the sugar habit) plus 30 minutes a day of exercise (strength training two to three times a week, cardio two to three times a week and stretching after every workout and walking).You have 1,440 minutes every day. Take 30 minutes each day for your health. Break it up into three 10-minute workouts or two 15-minute workouts, but do it. Donít just sit at your desk ó get up and move every 50 minutes.You and only you are responsible for your health decisions, and every decision whether good or bad has a consequence. Remember, we are all human and will make some unhealthy choices; but that is OK (once a week, treat yourself). Just let it go and get back to making healthy choices for you and your family. Little eyes are watching us and modeling themselves after us.The top way to keep a New Yearís resolution is to make it attainable, and take one step at a time. Set monthly goals and celebrate each goal that you reach. This year, your No. 1 resolution should be a healthier you.Donít be afraid to ask for help. We all need help and encouragement as we go through this life.Healthy lifestyle = eating a healthy diet + getting 30 minutes a day of exercise (two to three days of strength, same with cardio) and seven days of walking (10,000 steps goal) + drinking 64 ounces of water + six to eight hours of sleep. Jenni Mathews is the owner of Curves in Falcon. She can be reached at 719-494-2000.
