gtFtr

 The Dumb Little Man blog often has great tips for how to get the most out of life. Exercise is always important but it's not the only thing you need to consider when going for a better lifestyle. One crucial thing is being aware of what saps your energy and how to avoid it.

It's not all don'ts! They have some great articles that might surprise you such as this great one on 8 benefits of red wine.

Their article on keeping your New Years Resolutions is just as valid for a get fit program as it is for the annual self-improvement drive

It's all very well to exercise heaps ever day, but what if you're idea of a healthy lunch in a fast food burger and fries with a coke and an apple pie on the side?

Well you'll probably end up with some muscle tone but the fat won't go away (or worse you'll have something important fail on you)

But it's hard to know what's okay to eat that still tastes okay but isn't too bad for you.

I'm going through that process at the moment, and found a great article over at Yahoo! Health entitled "127 Foods That Fight Fat" that makes interesting reading.

While most of it resonated with me, there was a section on "diet" drinks... while the real thing is sweetened with sugar (or it's evil cousin High Fructose Corn Syrup - avoid that particular creature if you can) most of the diet products are laced with aspartame or similar "artificial" or chemically modified sweeteners which according to some folks can do you more harm than sugar (it's a personal choice but since swearing off non natural foods as much as possible I've noticed general well being improvements).

The important thing is not too get too hung up with an eating regimen any more than you would an exercise program. Sure you'll have days where another 50 pushups are too much, and there will be days when you're out with friends and a steak and fries is what you really want. Just don't go overboard and over the next few days try to compensate - a few more raw veggies, some more water, a few more reps...

It's all about balance and a long term view

Everyone wants to get fit and look their best, right?

I was inspired down this path by turning 40, getting slower, needing one more notch on my belt... all good motivations but it's hard to find something simple, repeatable and easy to fit around work and the rest of your life - especially if you travel.

While the title seems pretty miraculous with a bit of effort it might just pay off. I think I'm going to have to up my efforts from 3 sets of 12 situps if I want to get anywhere ;)