Vilimaina’s Top Tips for Summer Health

Exercise doesn’t have to be something that’s planned. There are simple ways of introducing more exercise into your life without making any major changes. Try parking your car at the far end of the parking lot and walking to the supermarket or shops. If you live close to work then leave 10 minutes earlier and walk to work (you can always carry your high heels in your bag). Take the stairs instead of the elevator or hide the TV remote and get up to change the channel. Remember every step counts.

Variety is the key. I like to mix things up otherwise I get bored. Alternate your fitness schedule by introducing different activities. Go for a swim instead of a walk or swap the treadmill for a run on the beach. With summer coming up try outdoor activities that are fun, like social netball, touch rugby and other team sports or simply take the dog for a walk. 

Nothing keeps my motivation up more than exercising with a friend. Exercise is a great excuse to catch up with friends regularly. Besides, you aren’t as likely to give the gym a miss if you are meeting someone there. Working out with a friend can be really rewarding. You encourage each other and push each other to do just another five minutes on the treadmill. We often arrange to meet friends for a coffee so why not meet up for a walk in the park instead.

Being on Jenny Craig has really taught me how important portion control and regular meals are. I eat five to six portion-controlled meals a day. This means I have energy consistently throughout the day to fuel my exercise regime and I never feel hungry. Therefore, my advice is to eat small healthy meals regularly throughout the day to keep your energy levels up and to stop you over eating. 

 
5: SkillPower

In terms of weight loss, sheer willpower alone hardly ever works. Since joining Jenny Craig I have learnt that struggling with weight loss is not about being weak, it’s about not knowing how to avoid the (often hidden) traps and dealing with the difficult times when they happen – having a personal Jenny Craig consultant has really helped me with that. With Christmas coming up there will be many temptations. It’s important to not deprive yourself – but you don’t need two pieces of cake when a small slice is enough. The key for ongoing weight management is to replace old behaviours with new, constructive ones.

For more information on Vili’s role as a Jenny Craig’s Ambassador, visit www.jennycraig.co.nz.