🕺Non-Negotiable Habits: The Active Edition - Stop 'Exercising' & Start Living

Let me share a little secret: I wasn't always a fitness enthusiast. In fact, back in school, I was pretty much last pick for any team. Fitness was not my strong suit. But somewhere along the way, I discovered the power of consistent movement and how it transforms not just your body, but your entire life. That's why I'm passionate about sharing these "Active Edition" non-negotiable habits with you.

Let's dive into the "Active Edition" of our non-negotiable habits: fitness.

Many of us believe fitness equals grueling workouts and rigid routines. But what if I told you we've been approaching it all wrong? What if true fitness is about building a lifestyle of consistent activity, not just structured exercise?

Today, I want to challenge you to rethink your approach to movement. It's not about forcing yourself into the gym; it's about integrating simple, sustainable habits into your daily life.

Here's the foundation of your non-negotiable active habits:

• 1) Move More (The Non-Negotiable Start): This is your foundation. If your goal is to lose weight, moving more is key! Think small, consistent actions that add up throughout the day. You can burn an extra 500-700 calories a day just by increasing your daily activity! That's almost enough to lose 1 pound a week!
  • • Lunges on your way to the bathroom:* Instead of just walking, add a few lunges in the hallway.
    • Kitchen circles while waiting for the microwave:* Don't stand still; walk in circles around your kitchen.
    • Parking further away from your destination:* Choose a parking spot at the far end of the lot and walk the extra distance.
    • Fidgeting and moving throughout the day:* Even small movements like tapping your foot or changing positions while sitting contribute to your overall calorie expenditure. 
• 2) Posture & Functional Movement (The Alignment): Ensure every movement you make is supporting your body, not hindering it. Learn to use gravity and proper alignment. This is about being aware of how you hold yourself throughout the day. Think "Superman" posture - chest out, shoulders back, core engaged.
  • 👉 Grab my "Proper Posture" course here

Pay Close Attention: Being active is NOT the same as exercising.

Exercise is a form of movement, but not all movement is exercise. This distinction is crucial. We are building a foundation of activity, and then we add exercise on top. Think of it this way:

• • Being active: Walking to the store or in the park, gardening, doing laundry, cleaning the house, taking the stairs.
  • Exercising: Going for a run (cardio), lifting weights (resistance training), attending a fitness class. 👉In my online fitness classes I incorporate cardio and full-body resistance training. 
• !!! We are building a foundation of activity, and then we add exercise on top.

• 3) Formal Fitness (The Gradual Integration): Once your foundation of daily activity is solid, and you understand the difference between being active and exercise, slowly bring in formal exercise. Start with short sessions and gradually increase the duration and intensity. Once again, 👉check my online functional fitness classes. But!! Never let exercise replace your commitment to daily activity.
• 4) Personalization (Your Unique Approach): Tailor your active habits to your lifestyle, preferences, and goals. What works for one person may not work for another. Find activities you enjoy and that fit seamlessly into your routine. This increases adherence; thus, consistency and sustainability. If you need help with it, schedule a session with me and let's create it.
• 5) Have Fun! (The Lifelong Habit): Make movement an enjoyable, non-negotiable part of your life. Find ways to make it fun and rewarding. Reward yourself for your efforts. Even a simple "high five" in the mirror can reinforce positive behavior! Remember, behavior rewarded, behavior repeated. 

This isn't about quick fixes; it's about building lasting habits that support your overall well-being.

Ready to incorporate these "Active Edition" non-negotiable habits into your life?

• Check out, try, or join my online functional fitness. We start new routine each week! Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 7:15-7:45 AM CST for all levels and every Tuesday and Thursday 3-3:20 PM CST for level 1 (limited mobility). Jump over here.
• Join "Level Up Your Wellness On Demand' and enjoy Fitness On-Demand here.
• To explore a personalized your fitness plan or a potential personal fitness training with me, schedule your conversation here. 

Remember, your health is a journey of building non-negotiable habits, and movement is a vital part of that journey.

To your active, healthy life!

Love,

Nadya