For many people, the new year represents a chance to establish healthy new habits and activities. Although millions of Americans make New Year’s resolutions, such as traveling more or exercising at a local fitness center, only a small number of people succeed in maintaining them throughout the year. Fortunately, keeping your goals realistic and attainable will help you succeed in making a positive change. Here are a few manageable resolutions for 2022.

What Are Some Achievable New Year’s Resolutions?

1. Eat More Whole Foods

Whole foods are those that have been processed either not at all or only minimally. Examples include fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, fish, and whole grains. Consuming fresh fruits and vegetables can reduce your risk of Type 2 diabetes as well as conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and cataracts.

The compounds in fatty fish, like salmon and tuna, can also strengthen your immune system, lowering the risk of illness and helping you recover more quickly from common ailments. Increase the whole foods in your diet by adding just one extra serving of legumes, beans, produce, or fish each day.

2. Sit Less

Sitting for prolonged periods can have a wide range of negative health effects, including shoulder, back, and neck discomfort and a reduced metabolism. To counter these effects, make a resolution to stand for at least an hour a day, whether all at once or in 10- to 15-minute intervals every hour. Also, aim to walk at least 10,000 steps a day to maintain muscle strength, balance, and mood.

3. Find a Physical Activity You Enjoy

One of the most common New Year’s resolutions—to start a new exercise regimen or get more exercise in general—is also often one of the most difficult to maintain. This is often due to the challenges and discouragement many face when they don’t achieve rapid results.

While making exercise a habit is a matter of perseverance, you can improve your chances of long-term success by sampling a variety of activities and choosing one that is both beneficial and enjoyable. For example, join an aerobics or martial arts class at the local fitness center, or take a bike ride before or after work. When your preferred form of exercise becomes a habit, it's easier to make progress and meet your fitness goals.

This coming year, take advantage of the facilities and programs offered by the Jacksonville Parks & Recreation Department in Jacksonville, AR, to meet your health and fitness goals. This local department provides an extensive selection of classes and activities through fitness centers and parks to help area residents make 2022 their healthiest yet. Call (501) 982-4171 or visit them online to learn more.