First of all we'd love to take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones a healthy and successful 2023. We hope you had a restful holiday break and are taking 2023 in stride. Perhaps you've even set some goals for this year, be it in health, finance or relationships. The latter two we aren't qualified to assist you with, but if you're looking for better health in 2023, here are 5 tips to get you started on the right track.

1. Start Slow: If you haven't exercised in a while, start slow. Start with something as simple as circling your block, then add another every week. Soon you'll be on your way to walking a marathon. Join a walk/run program, if you're looking to complete the Vancouver Sun Run this year. Adding free weights to your exercise program? Start with a weight you can easily manage and increase weights as your muscles start to build. If in doubt, hire a personal trainer or kinesiologist to get you started right. Progress is placing one foot in front of the other.
2. Stay Consistent: True success is found in your daily routine. Do you have to exercise daily? No. However, in order for a healthy lifestyle to become a habit it will take an average of 66 days of consistent effort.
3. Change it up: Yes, exercise can be mundane. Which is why we recommend to switch it up. Try something new, such as pilates, aerobics or ballroom dancing. Yes, ballroom dancing is great exercise and will engage a whole other set of muscles. We like to call this cross-training.
4. Book a Walking Vacation: Can't get motivated? Book a walking or cycling vacation in the not so distant future for which to prepare. This will provide you with the motivation to get in shape and reward you for all of your hard work. Check out Camino de Santiago or EuroVelo for some inspiration.
5. Get the perfect fit: Be sure to get the appropriate shoe for your exercise regime. Activities such as pickleball, basketball or volleyball require different shoes than walking, running and hiking. Most of all the footwear needs to fit properly, with just the right amount of spacing and structure to support the feet. Not sure if you've got the appropriate footwear? Swing by your local Foot Solutions for a personalized footwear consultation.

Happy Sweating!