Discovering YOU Magazine January 2018 New Year Issue Special Edition | Page 18

BEAUTY AND FASHION

Find fitness opportunities with friends.

* Instead of going out for dinner or drinks with friends, do something physical, like taking a walk, going for a bike ride or engaging in a physical activity like tennis or bowling.

* Take your dog to the park, or play with them in your own backyard. A game of fetch is not only great exercise for your furry friend - it works your muscles, too.

* Join or start a sports team with your friends. Whether it's softball, basketball or soccer, taking part in a sport you enjoy will improve both your physical and mental well-being.

Stay curious and improve upon what you're already doing.

* Do you already walk daily? Try walking faster or choose a challenging route with hills.

* Take up a new summer outdoor sport, such as canoeing, paddle boarding or inline skating.

* If there's a cause you feel passionate about, try training to participate in a run or walk to raise funds.

* If you play golf, walk the course and carry your own clubs instead of using a cart and caddy.

"Research suggests that as little as 10 minutes of cardiovascular activity can make a big difference in your health and fitness measures."

"Every little bit counts," Johnson says. "Research suggests that as little as 10 minutes of cardiovascular activity can make a big difference in your health and fitness measures. I often equate health to putting away money for retirement. Putting away savings, even in small amounts, will add up big over time. The same can be said for your health. Investing in opportunities to be active, even for short periods of time, adds up. The key is to be consistent."