Five Simple Steps Towards Living an Active Lifestyle

Dave • May 06, 2019
Outdoor Workout

In order to pursue an active lifestyle and reap the benefits it offers, the three most common things you will hear about are diet, exercise, and quitting smoking. Quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy diet almost go without saying and are frankly about the easiest part of this triple threat to healthier living. But what about exercise? The older we get, the harder it is to recover from injuries and also the harder it is to put on muscle, achieve tone, and most importantly being good to our joints and bones. Over time, disuse, old injuries, or even medical conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes present even greater challenges to getting in shape. Chances are you aren’t in your 20’s anymore, and you can’t just will yourself to perform athletically like you did when you were younger. These things take time, but where do you begin when you want to start living an active lifestyle?

5 Steps to Take for a More Active Lifestyle

1. Stretch

In order to begin any sort of new physical activity, it is best if you warm your body up to the idea. The first and best method of doing this is to stretch. Do some research on techniques. Take time to give your joints, muscles, and connective tissue a proper warmup. Proper stretching can decrease the chance of aggravating old injuries and also goes a long way towards preventing new ones. You might feel silly at first, contorting your body in all sorts of ways, but in the long run, you will allow yourself extra motility and a lot less pain when your workout is over.

2. Know Your Physical Limits

Overdoing things can stress out your muscles, tendons, and ligaments, and could present the added complications of things like microfractures. Overdoing things could increase your chance of heart attack, stroke, exercise-induced asthma attacks, or even diabetic related problems such as a drop in glucose levels. Blacking out during a run could lead to head trauma, concussions, broken bones, or other injuries. Be kind to yourself and pay close attention to how you feel. s your heart racing? Be sure to monitor your pulse and blood pressure if necessary. Any number of fitness tracking devices on the market can help you keep an eye on this and even record the data over time on your smartphone!


Also be conscious of old injuries. A healing surgery or even plantar fasciitis can cause serious pain which might keep you off your feet longer than you need, not to mention giving you no desire to get out there and keep active. Talk to your doctor about the proper way to baby these injuries and prevent future flare-ups or complications! Above all else, listen to your body. If you feel sudden pain, shortness of breath, dizziness or blackouts, stop the activity immediately and seek professional help.

3. Use Proper Equipment

Your workout is only going to be as good as the equipment you use. Proper shoes can mean the difference between getting the optimum workout for the day or spending weeks of downtime nursing injuries. If you are going to a gym, get advice from a personal trainer and at least long enough to learn the ropes and how to use the equipment properly. They can also offer advice on the best sorts of shoes you need for your activity, or other exercise gear that will make your experience fun and productive. Helmets, pads, and safety equipment are also a must for keeping your calendar clear of injuries.

4. Check Conditions

Whether your favorite activity is riding a mountain bike or in-line skating, running or swimming, or climbing or a simple walk through the park, always make sure that the weather is going to agree with the activity you are planning. A road bike and a light drizzle can make for a deadly combination if you round a corner and your wheels slip out from under you. Hot summer days might cause problems with heat stroke if you are running, and ice-skates are better suited to winter days than in-line skates. If it’s rainy or icy outside, don’t use this as an excuse to not work out. Make it a day for the gym or stay at home and work on some exercises you can do in front of the TV if you have to. It’s all about making good lifestyle decisions!

5. Know Your Comfort Levels

Start off slow. Good, productive exercise means building up a gradual tolerance to the demands of the physical activity. Starting off too hard and fast can lead to injuries or worse, or might just increase recovery time, which also prevents you from making exercise a part of your lifestyle. This binge-style workout isn’t going to help your body out any more than surfing the internet and might lead to health problems in the long term. Start off slow and get a feel for how much activity your body can tolerate. Increase how strenuous the activity is depending on what you feel comfortable handling!


Contact us if you want to learn more about living an active lifestyle!


David Michael Gilbertson is the founder and president of 3 Elements Lifestyle, LLC., a Fitness and Weight Loss company that specializes in YOU! With more than 15 years of experience owning, operating and managing clubs of all sizes, David lectures, delivers seminars and gives workshops on the practical skills required to successfully help you with your health and fitness goals. David also helps you build the teamwork, management, and training necessary to open your own fitness center.


For more information on Licensing and Consulting Services Visit his website at www.3elementslifestyle.com or email at daveg@3elementslifestyle.com or call (805) 499-3030.

By Dixon Troyer 21 Feb, 2024
Boosting Mental Health through the Power of Group Exercise
woman holding up a barbell and vegetables
By Dixon Troyer 05 Sep, 2023
I will discuss 10 healthy eating habits that can power your fitness journey and complement your workouts, helping you achieve your goals efficiently.
By Dixon Troyer 25 Jul, 2023
Embarking on a fitness and nutrition journey can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially for beginners. At 3 Elements Lifestyle, we understand the importance of guiding newcomers through their initial steps toward a healthier lifestyle. In this blog, we will provide you with 10 practical tips that will help you kickstart your fitness and nutrition journey with confidence and determination. 1. Set Realistic Goals: Begin by setting realistic goals that align with your fitness and nutrition aspirations. Start with small, achievable targets to avoid feeling overwhelmed or discouraged. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as you progress. Going cold turkey on your eating never works out. Go slow and let the body adjust. You are in it for the long run. 2. Find Your Motivation: Identify your personal motivation for pursuing a healthier lifestyle. Whether it's to improve your overall well-being, increase energy levels, or boost self-confidence, having a clear motivation will keep you focused and committed throughout your journey. Write your goals down, so you know exactly what they are. I recommend placing them in the refrigerator so you will see then every time you open it. 3. Participate in Group Classes: Joining group classes like at 3 Elements Lifestyle can provide you with the support and motivation needed to stay consistent. Our classes are always led by a trained instructor. The workouts include bodyweight training, HIIT, kettlebells, cardio, strength training, battle ropes, tire flipping, and offer a diverse range of workouts that cater to different fitness levels and preferences. 4. Prioritize Nutrition: Fitness and nutrition go hand in hand. Nourishing your body with the right foods will enhance your workouts and accelerate your progress. Poor quality food will do the opposite. Focus on consuming a balanced macro diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, lots of vegetables, and healthy fats. Consult a nutritionist for personalized advice if needed. 5. Stay Hydrated: This is a big one. Maintaining adequate hydration is essential for overall health and optimal workout performance. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially before, during, and after exercise. Hydration helps regulate body temperature, supports joint health, and aids in nutrient absorption. A good marker for daily water intake is to take your weight, divide it by two and drink that many ounces a day. 6. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your body's signals during workouts. Push yourself to challenge your limits, but also know when to rest and recover. Overtraining can lead to injuries and burnout, so allow yourself time for adequate rest and rejuvenation. 7. Incorporate Resistance Training: In addition to cardiovascular exercises, include resistance training in your workout routine. This helps build lean muscle mass, increases metabolism, and improves overall strength. Start with bodyweight exercises and gradually introduce kettlebells, weighted balls or weights as you progress. 8. Prioritize Sleep: Adequate sleep is crucial for muscle recovery and overall well-being. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to support your fitness goals. Establish a bedtime routine and create a sleep-friendly environment to optimize restful sleep. 9. Track Your Progress: Keep a record of your fitness and nutrition journey to track your progress effectively. Monitor changes in your strength, endurance, and body composition. This will not only help you stay motivated but also enable you to make adjustments to your routine as necessary. 10. Celebrate Milestones: Celebrate your accomplishments along the way, no matter how small. Recognize your dedication and hard work by treating yourself to a non-food-related reward or sharing your achievements with friends and family. Remember, every step counts! In conclusion, embarking on a fitness and nutrition journey as a beginner can be challenging, but with the right guidance and mindset, it becomes an empowering experience. At 3 Elements Lifestyle, we are committed to helping you kickstart your journey on the right foot. By setting realistic goals, prioritizing nutrition, staying consistent, and listening to your body, you'll be well on your way to achieving a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle. Get ready to unleash your potential and embrace the transformative power of fitness and nutrition, and a better, healthier life! Stay healthy my friend! Dixon Troyer is the President of Operations at 3 Elements Lifestyle, LLC., a Fitness and Weight Loss company that specializes in YOU! With more than 15 years of gym and club experience, owning, operating and managing clubs of all sizes, Dixon lectures, delivers seminars and workshops on the practical skills required to successfully help you with your health and fitness goals. Dixon also helps you build the teamwork, management, and training necessary to open your own fitness center. Visit his Web site at: www.3elementslifestyle.com , email at Dixon@3elementslifestyle.com or call 805.499.3030.
By Dixon Troyer 26 Jun, 2023
Embarking on a fitness journey is an exciting endeavor, but setbacks can sometimes throw us off track. Whether it's due to an injury, lack of motivation, or a busy schedule, setbacks can derail our progress. Covid stay at home orders also caused some major setbacks, including weight gain and poor health, where some people are now afraid to go to the gym. However, with the right mindset and approach, we can overcome these challenges and regain momentum on the path to a healthier, fitter self. We all want that, right? In this blog post, we will explore effective strategies to help you bounce back stronger by harnessing the power of group fitness classes. 1. Reflect, Reset, and Reconnect: Take a moment to reflect on the setback and acknowledge it as a natural part of the fitness journey. Embrace the opportunity to reset your goals and priorities. Group fitness classes can be an excellent choice to help you reconnect with your fitness routine. They provide structure, variety, and a supportive community that can reinvigorate your passion for fitness. 2. Gradual Progression within a Supportive Environment: Group fitness classes offer a structured and progressive approach to exercise. Whether it's high-intensity interval training (HIIT), body weight training or strength training, these classes are designed to accommodate various fitness levels. Starting with low-impact options or modified movements, you can gradually progress and rebuild your strength while being mindful of your body's limitations. The supportive environment of the class encourages camaraderie, providing motivation and accountability to help you stay consistent. 3. Expert Guidance and Personalized Attention: Group fitness classes are typically led by certified instructors who have the knowledge and experience to guide you through proper techniques and form. They can help you adapt exercises to fit your specific needs, ensuring safety and preventing further setbacks. Additionally, instructors often offer modifications or alternative exercises, catering to different fitness levels and abilities. This personalized attention helps you navigate any limitations while still challenging yourself. 4. Motivation and Accountability: One of the most significant advantages of group fitness classes is the built-in support system. Exercising alongside others who share similar goals and challenges can be highly motivating. The collective energy and positive atmosphere during classes can push you to give your best effort, even on days when you feel less motivated. The sense of camaraderie and accountability within the group fosters consistency and helps you stay committed to your fitness journey. 5. Fun and Variety: Here at 3 Elements Lifestyle, we offer group fitness classes that will be a different workout every day, focusing on upper body, lower body, cardio and core every workout. That variety is ensuring that you'll find something you enjoy. The variety keeps workouts exciting and prevents boredom. This variety will hopefully reignite your enthusiasm for exercise, making it easier to get back on track after a setback. Conclusion: Experiencing setbacks on your fitness journey is normal, but it's how you bounce back that truly matters. By reflecting on the setback, resetting your goals, and reconnecting with group fitness classes, you can regain your motivation and momentum. Embrace the supportive environment, expert guidance, inspiration, and variety that group fitness classes offer. You'll not only recover from setbacks but also find new levels of strength, endurance, and enjoyment on your path to a healthier, fitter you. Let’s get back on track, embrace the power of group fitness, and be amazed at the positive impact it can have on your overall well-being. Stay healthy my friend! Dixon Troyer is the President of Operations at 3 Elements Lifestyle, LLC., a Fitness and Weight Loss company that specializes in YOU! With more than 15 years of gym and club experience, owning, operating and managing clubs of all sizes, Dixon lectures, delivers seminars and workshops on the practical skills required to successfully help you with your health and fitness goals. Dixon also helps you build the teamwork, management, and training necessary to open your own fitness center. Visit his Web site at: www.3elementslifestyle.com , email at Dixon@3elementslifestyle.com or call 805.499.3030.
By Dixon Troyer 18 May, 2023
Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by progressive cognitive decline, memory loss, and other symptoms that can be debilitating. However, research has shown that there are several steps that can be taken to prevent or slow the onset of Alzheimer's disease. And at 3 Elements Lifestyle, we promote them all. Here are some of the proven steps to help prevent Alzheimer's: Exercise and Fitness: Studies have shown that regular exercise and physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Exercise helps improve blood flow to the brain, which can increase the growth of new brain cells and improve cognitive function. Aerobic exercise, such as walking, jogging, or cycling, HIIT classes, and kettlebell routines has been shown to be particularly effective in reducing the risk. Eating Healthy: A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats is essential for brain health. Research has shown that diets high in saturated and trans fats can increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, while diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fatty fish like salmon, can help reduce the risk. You also feel better when you eat healthy. Proper Rest: Getting enough sleep is crucial for overall health, and it is also known to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Studies have shown that lack of sleep can lead to cognitive decline which will increase the risk. You’ll also feel better and be more productive with proper sleep. Proper Hydration: Staying hydrated is essential for brain health. Dehydration can lead to cognitive decline. An easy formula is to take your weight, divide it by 2, and drink that many ounces. Example, if you weigh 160 pounds, you should drink 80 ounces of water a day. Also avoid sugary drinks and excessive caffeine, which can dehydrate you. Socialization: Socialization is essential for overall health and can also help reduce the risk. Joining a group fitness class or going to the gym can provide social benefits and improve cognitive function. Exercise has been shown to stimulate the release of endorphins, which improve mood and reduce stress. In conclusion, regular exercise and physical activity, eating a healthy diet, getting proper rest, staying hydrated, and socializing can all help reduce the risk of developing this debilitating condition. And you should start now, regardless of your age. By incorporating these steps into your lifestyle, you can improve your overall health and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Stay Healthy and sharp, my friends! Dixon Troyer is the President of Operations at 3 Elements Lifestyle, LLC., a Fitness and Weight Loss company that specializes in YOU! With more than 15 years of gym and club experience, owning, operating and managing clubs of all sizes, Dixon lectures, delivers seminars and workshops on the practical skills required to successfully help you with your health and fitness goals. Dixon also helps you build the teamwork, management, and training necessary to open your own fitness center. Dixon@3elementslifestyle.com or call 805.499.3030.
By Dixon Troyer 02 May, 2023
Are you struggling to find time to prioritize your fitness routine amidst a busy schedule? Don't worry, you're not alone.
Share by: