My top 6 advises for getting in a better shape without much efforts

Getting in shape is a big challenge for most of us. We all know that the best way to accomplish it is to visit a good dietitian and to hit the gym at least three times a week. Both things simultaneously. However it is also possible to get in a slightly better shape without spending too much time, money and efforts.

Here are my top 6 advises for everyone who wants to get in a better shape. They are a good choice for the times when your jeans are too tight but your willpower is not strong enough to make serious changes to your lifestyle. By following them you won't see miraculous results but you will feel better and look better within a month or two.

1. Eat breakfast

 I don't want to quote researches showing that people who eat breakfast loose more weight than the ones who don't. In my own experience eating breakfast helps you to stay in a good mood until lunchtime. Also the breakfast is a good metabolism stimulator.

I know that not all people are waking up starving (like me :)), but the breakfast doesn't need to be too heavy. If you really don't feel like having it, an apple or a banana with the preferred morning drink will also make a good start of the day.

2. Cut all soda and juices

This is very important because of the sugar content in all these drinks. If you normally don't drink soda quit all the fresh juices and start eating the fruits instead. It is true that the freshly extracted juices are fully natural, but they are less good for the body than the fresh fruit. The reason is that when the pulp (or all the fibre) is removed what is left is mostly high percentage of fructoses - sugar. At the same time after drinking a juice you don't have the feeling that you have had something nutritious when in fact two cups of juice contain the same amount of calories as a candy bar.

3. Bring with you bananas or almonds for quick snacks

Busy people often don't have time to eat. Than suddenly the hunger hits and they eat fast food on the go, promising themselves that this will be the last time. But it won't be the last time until we start knowing better our eating habits.

When you are very hungry you loose your self control until the moment your stomach gets full. For that reason before reaching the point of starvation have a snack of a banana or 8-10 nuts (I read somewhere that almonds are the best). Within 20 minutes the crazy hunger will be gone and you will manage to finish the lunch with a fresh salad instead of junk food. 

4. Walk

This one doesn't need much explanation. Just try to walk 30-60 minutes every day. If you already do, increase the walking time by using less transport, avoiding elevators, etc. It will have a good effect on your shape and on your overall health.

5. Cut alcohol

Alcohol is very rich in calories and it tends to increase the appetite (as reported by many people). It is not always easy in the social environment to quit it completely but you can try to consume it less often. 

If you have a beer every day, try having it every other day. If you have a drink every other day, keep it only for the weekend. But don't drink double on the drinking days - it will ruin the effect.

6. Drink water
This has become a cliché but it is very valid. By drinking water the body feels less hungry. The metabolism works better. You might avoid headaches. If you normally drink very little don't aim for 3 l daily. Start with 1 l, then 1,5 and you will get used. Just keep remanding yourself because it is easy to forget.

I am sure that everyone knows very well his weak point that is ruining his good shape. Mine is the sugar. One day I will try a completely sugarless diet, but I am still not ready for this. Until then I guess I will never be completely happy with the mirror :)