How to Get a Perfect Body

In today’s society we are constantly being bombarded by the media with idealized images of the perfect body. Although most people understand the importance of a healthy lifestyle, and the role that it plays in guarding against cancer and other diseases, many people are still searching for a magic pill that will give them optimum health and the perfect body no matter what the cost. Unfortunately, no such pill exists. The safest and healthiest way to obtain the perfect body is through a combination of healthy lifestyle changes, motivation and hard work.

Things You'll Need

• Walking or running shoes
• Free weights
• Weight machines
• Yoga classes or DVDs
• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Healthy carbohydrates
• Lean proteins
• Healthy oils
• Tai Chi classes
• 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night

Instructions

1. Move your body. Regular aerobic training that increases the pulse rate for at least 20 to 30 minutes three times a week improves lung capacity and guards against heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke. Walking, dancing, cycling and running are all excellent aerobic choices.

2. Lift weights. Participate in weight-bearing activities three to four times a week. Strength training can increase bone density, thus reducing the risk of osteoporosis, as well as improving the body’s resting metabolic rate. Using free weights and weight machines, as well as participating in sculpting classes will improve the body’s fat to muscle ratio and reduce the risk of serious injury while performing simple day to day activities.

3. Practice stretching and flexibility exercises daily. Stretching daily is important to guarantee flexibility and range of motion. Stretching will also prevent muscle stiffness and injury during exercise. Activities such as yoga increase the body’s flexibility as well as build muscle strength.

4. Eat a balanced diet daily. A healthy eating plan is essential to achieve a perfect body. Strive to eat three meals along with two healthy snacks daily. A healthy diet should include an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, and healthy carbohydrates like those found in whole grain bread, brown rice, and whole wheat pasta. Lean proteins such as poultry, fish, eggs, soybeans and legumes, along with healthy fats like olive oil, and drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water a day complete a healthy eating plan.

5. Strive to keep stress to a minimum. A certain amount of stress is inevitable. However, too much stress can have a negative effect on a person’s health. Long term stress can even lead to heart attack or stroke. Taking a leisurely walk, practicing Tai Chi, daily meditation and getting 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night can help to alleviate stress and put you one step closer to getting the perfect body.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have high blood pressure, check with your doctor before beginning an exercise program.