So in the past few months, I’ve been on a real health kick, and I’ve seen positive results in a few different aspects of my life.  In addition to losing weight, my skin has improved, I feel good almost every day, and I haven’t even had one nasty cold since winter started!  It is so important to take care of your body inside and out, so here are some tips and tricks to get you started.  Making these small changes goes a long way to turning you into a fit person, without feeling like you’re sacrificing!

1.  Apps can be your friend.  I splurged and subscribed to Sweat with Kayla by Kayla Itsines, the most famous fitness Instagrammer.  If you aren’t ready to subscribe, her website’s blog section has a lot of great free advice too, including some of her favorite exercises!  And even though I don’t advocate counting calories, I do really like tracking my meals with My Fitness Pal to keep track of what I’m eating!  It really helps you see what’s truly healthy in your diet.

2.  Use the buddy system.  I am way more motivated when I go to the gym with my mom or with friends!  Having someone with you keeps you on track and reminds you of your goals.  Or, if you’re competitive, well…

3.  Treat yourself.  I bought a bunch of new workout clothes, and I feel so much more confident at the gym.  My new favorite discovery is Fabletics, and my workout bag is packed with all the necessities.

4.  Do your research!  Mind and body; reading inspires me and I discover new recipes and workout techniques.  Check out Byrdie’s Health section.

5.  Start at home.  I know a lot of people who feel uncomfortable working out in a gym.  My advice is to start off where you feel comfortable.  Use an app or check out some of Youtube’s thousands of workout videos!

6.  Cook and save.  People don’t realize how much they spend eating out every week.  $12 on sushi one day and $8 on a sandwich another seems like nothing, but it really adds up!  I not only eat better when I pack a lunch, I save a ton of money too.  Check out these easy and healthy recipes from PopSugar.

7.  Find the workout that works for you.  If you dread going to the gym, it will be way easier to make an excuse not to.  Find a class that makes you feel good, and you’ll be excited to go.  Try yoga, kickboxing, Zumba, Pure Barre, SoulCycle, and I guarantee you, there is something out there for everyone.  Plus, by trying to find the right class, you’ll log a lot of exercise hours. Win-win!

8.  Remember that you can do it!  The human body is stronger than you know, so tell yourself that you can, over and over.