These simple lifestyle adjustments will have you feeling healthier in no time

Get moving 

The human body was designed to move, mainly in the form of walking, as we gathered food and found shelter. So buy yourself a pedometer and aim to walk at least 10,000 steps every day. If you're doing less, get that step count up. 

Dont complain 

Stop making excuses for why you cant trim down. Blaming the weather, lack of time or that you enjoy your food too much isn't helpful. It's as though you are saying, 'My health isnt that important - until I have my first heart attack.' 

Spring-clean 

Did you know 30 minutes of ironing and vacuuming can burn 635kJ? That's equivalent to a bowl of Weet-Bix with low-fat milk. 

Cut screen time 

TVs, DVDs, computers - it's a conspiracy. Watching screens is a treat, not a right. Three to four hours a day is too much, and you should aim to cut this in half. It's no use telling kids to get outdoors either, you must make alternate suggestions -  maybe a trip to the local pool or a game of footy in the garden. 

Get a health check

We all need an annual medical opinion to see how we're tracking. A doctor can be a great motivator to the inactive, or can pick up on potential problems in a relatively fit person.   

Get the messages 

Write down specific targets and put them up on the walls. If you can see your goals, you're less likely to give them a miss.   

Get up earlier 

This is the ideal way to address the 'I dont have time' excuse. Go for a brisk walk or a jog at least three times a week. There are 168 hours in a week - you're kidding yourself if you can't put a few into your health. 

Take the kids out

Lead by example - research shows that inactive children come from sedentary families. Regularly participate in activity yourself, involve the kids in jobs around the house and try to be inclusive with your own exercise. When was the last time you went for a bike ride with the kids?  

Stretch it out 

Stretch your entire body and you won't know yourself afterwards. You have only to look at the strength and health of the thousands taking Pilates and yoga classes to know it does good.   

Confront the mirror 

Dont delude yourself. Stand in front of the mirror in your undies. If you don't like what you see, change your behaviour.

More from New Idea