By: Heather Marr
Heather Marr is an N.Y.C.-based personal trainer andThe Model Trainer Methodcreator, whose A-list client roster includes some of the world’s most famous supermodels. Ahead, she reveals how to stay healthy while still having a social life.
Your body is a reflection of your current lifestyle. If you begin a new nutrition or training plan but you're still clinging to your old ways, your body will likely revert back to its old state. In order to lose weight and keep it off, permanent lifestyle changes must be adopted. And yes, your social life is included in this plan. Below are just a few tips to help you embrace these changes long term.
Discover New Social Activities That Don't Revolve Around Food
Perhaps in the past, unwinding on the weekend always meant a greasy dinner or boozy brunch. Now instead, plan fun activities with friends where the act of eating/drinking isn't the main event. Bowling, playing pool, escape rooms, mini golf, games night, comedy shows, and going dancing are just a few of the fun pastimes to try. Not only will you be saving money, you’ll also be discovering new hobbies. There’s a big, fun world outside of just restaurants and bars to discover and enjoy!
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Expand Your Social Circle
When a person begins an active lifestyle, they may find that their current partner or group of friends have no interest in partaking in their new healthy pastimes with them. This may lead to them feeling unsupported, lonely, and isolated. It's important, however, to not push or force your lifestyle choices on those around you just as you would also expect them to respect your choices. Signing up for fitness classes, like spinning or boxing, or joining a seasonal sports team, like hockey or baseball, is a great way to meet new active friends. A solid support system can make all the difference in your long-term success.
Expertly Navigate Dinners
Socializing in restaurants over a meal with friends and family does not have to derail your nutrition plan. This can cause uneasiness for some in the beginning. Often times, people feel pressured to order items they do not want, such as alcohol, to "fit in" with the group. If you know where you'll be dining in advance, check out the restaurant menu before arriving. You'll feel more confident and assured if you already know what is on the menu and what you'll be having. Simply make smart choices and don't be shy to order something off the menu if it’s lacking healthy options. The focus and the joy of the dinner is on spending quality time together. The other diners will not be watching and judging you. And the other guests will be far more focused on themselves than worrying about what you're eating and drinking (or not eating and drinking). Over time and with practice in these situations, your confidence will increase. Ordering healthier choices will become so second nature, you won’t even worry about what others are thinking. Adopting a healthy lifestyle does not mean abandoning our social lives. It means embracing the changes that come with it and finding the joy and happiness in newfound activities and friendships.
