Commuting Making You Fat?

A study recently published in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine found that car commuters generally gain more weight than their non-commuting counterparts. Whether it’s time spent being inactive or picking up unhealthy meals on the go commuting can put a halt on your weight loss plans. But it doesn’t have to, here are some tips to staying active and healthy even if your commute forces you to sit for longs periods of time.

 

Vary your fitness routine. If you've been walking, try jogging. If you’ve been using light weights, increase your repetitions. By varying your routine, you’ll not only keep yourself from becoming bored, you’ll challenge your body in new, exciting ways.

 

Try something new. Sign up for a healthy cooking class, or try some seasonal fruits and vegetables at the grocery store you haven’t tried before. Changing your lifestyle has never been more fun.

 

Add little snippets of exercise into your workday. Park far from your office building entrance or get off the subway/bus a stop or two early. Walk your memo around the building instead of e-mailing it. Every little bit adds up.

 

Make sure to eat a nutritious breakfast every day, it should include protein to keep you fueled longer and more satisfied.

 

Create a true power lunch. Instead of pasta specials or multi-layer sandwiches, build your plate around salads, veggies and 2-3 ounces of protein. You’ll lighten your calories, feel fuller, and avoid a mid-afternoon slump.

 

If you’ve slipped up a bit on your weight loss plans, don’t give up. Here are some more tips to get you closer to your goals.

 

Make a plan, be specific and realistic. Instead of vowing to go to the gym “more often,” write in a gym appointment for Monday, Wednesday and Friday on your daily calendar.

 

Set realistic goals. Add an extra fruit or vegetable to your day take a “walk break” instead of a “coffee break” at work or set aside 30 minutes a week to de-stress in healthy ways.

Expect progress, not perfection. It takes practice to develop new habits. Give yourself a break when you slip up, and make your lapse a learning situation for the next situation that arises.

 

Don’t deprive - thrive. Use a moderate approach when choosing the foods you eat and preparing your meals. Pay attention to portion size balance higher-calorie foods with lower-calorie ones and you can still enjoy all your favorite foods.