Fitness: Maintaining The Lifestyle

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Maintaining the Lifestyle

Many of the benefits of being physically active, such as more energy and improved mood, occur soon after you become more active. But some of the most important health benefits have to do with being active over many years. Also, if you stop being active, you lose the fitness you achieved. Being consistent makes the most sense for your health.

To help make physical activity a long-term commitment:

• Set goals and develop and follow a specific program.
• Make it a habit—a routine, pleasant, and normal part of your life.
• Have the support of friends and family.
• Expand your fitness activities through coaching, competition, and cross-training.
• Add variety to your fitness program by changing the place, activity, and time.
• Don't let reasons such as lack of time or bad weather slow you down.

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Last updated:	August 26, 2008
Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Heather Chambliss, PhD - Exercise Science/Weight Management
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC