The Spark Giveaway

on January 12, 2010
in All Posts

Good morning!  :)  My house is almost cleared of visitors – only my sister-in-law is left – which makes me sad.  I loved having everyone here! 

 

A bowl of oatmeal cheered me up:

IMG_5751

Eaten with a tiny spoon, of course! These $1 spoons are from Crate and Barrel!

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My oatmeal contained:

 

  • 1/2 cup oatmeal
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 sliced banana
  • Toppings: brown sugar, flax, and blackberries

IMG_5753

Post-Marathon Body

 

Stay tuned for my lunch post, where I’ll be discussing how marathon training impacted my body, weight, and life in general.  I’ll be including before-and-after pictures as well to see how running 26.2 changed my body (if at all!).  And I’ll be discussing how my knees fared, as well as other injuries I may (or may not) have sustained.

 

The Spark Giveaway

 

Have you ever been to SparkPeople.com?  It’s the largest online health community, and it offers tons of tips and tools for losing weight or getting into shape in a healthy, sustainable manner.  I especially love the Spark blog!  And now there’s a SparkPeople.com BOOK!

TheSparkCover (1)

From the experts who created SparkPeople.com comes The Spark, a ground-breaking book that focuses on what you can do, instead of what you can’t do. The Spark is about transforming your life and your idea of what dieting means.  With dozens of photos—including before-and-after shots and easy-to-follow exercise images—this book distills the best of SparkPeople’s medically accepted nutrition and fitness plan and infuses it with a program of personal empowerment. In this book, you’ll discover:

 

  • Secrets of Success—the best habits of SparkPeople’s most successful members
  • A 28-day program that brings together the most effective practices from SparkPeople into an innovative 4-stage plan, available only in this book
  • Dozens of success stories that show the power of this transformational program

 

Interested in winning a copy of The Spark?  Simply leave a comment below stating your #1 healthy living tip, and I’ll pick a winner Thursday morning.

 

My #1 tip is to be your very best right now. Don’t focus on how fit or dedicated you once were, but take into account things like your current lifestyle, work schedule, fitness level, and goals when deciding whether or not you are doing “your best.”  Remembering your best is relative is uplifting and keeps you feeling motivated when you’re swamped with work or suffering from an injury, for example.

 

What’s your tip?

{ 363 comments }

 

  • marie January 12, 2010, 9:02 am

    My #1 healthy living tip is to do SOME sort of exercise every day, whether it be a run, a slow walk, a heavy lifting session or a gentle yoga series. Every little bit of exercise counts.

  • Ellen January 12, 2010, 9:04 am

    Be your own #1 cheerleader, because you can’t rely on other people to have confidence for you.

    Congrats on the marathon!!!! I’ve never had a stress fracture, but all of my little injuries post-mary manifested themselves 24-36 hrs after the event. This somehow makes sense to me (but I have no scientific explanation why). Your body is pretty out of whack after the marathon – I think it takes a while for the bod to adjust and then be like, crap. Ow.

  • Emily January 12, 2010, 9:07 am

    Don’t have the “all or nothing” attitude. I try not to think about my “fun” meals as cheating. Instead, it’s real life dieting. And if you don’t make it to the gym one day, don’t beat yourself up and give up that whole week. Each day is a new day!!!!

  • greenbean January 12, 2010, 9:07 am

    my tip is to listen to your body and not deny yourself things you enjoy. your body will find it’s balance.

  • Sam January 12, 2010, 9:08 am

    My #1 tip is the age-old “everything in moderation”. No-one should have to feel guilty about enjoying a chocolate bar or taking a day off from the gym. It’s all about balance!

  • Holmgirl January 12, 2010, 9:13 am

    My advice is to keep at it. Sometimes you see the results of your work quickly; other times you don’t. I’ve found that if I keep working at something (like going to the gym when scheduled, even when all I really want to do is lay on the couch and drool), I’ll eventually reach my goals. Eventually is better than never.

  • adrianna January 12, 2010, 9:13 am

    i think truly, it all boils down to taking time for yourself/ make yourself the priority. whether its total veggin out or working up a bucket of sweat, reading a great book or gossip mag, whatever…its beneficial to you and everyone around you if your head is with it. better head, better heart, better health.

  • Maura January 12, 2010, 9:14 am

    Number #1 fitness tip: Get plenty of sleep! Without a good nights sleep, you can kiss the energy for your workout (among other important things) good-bye.

    Congrats on the marathon!!! I hope someday to run the Disney marathon too 🙂

  • Lindsey @ Eat, Read, Run January 12, 2010, 9:16 am

    My tip is to remember to switch things up a bit – in eating and exercising! Try new foods and new exercises as often as possible to strengthen your muscles in new ways and add a variety of nutrients and vitamins to your diet.

  • Mel @ She Runs Brooklyn January 12, 2010, 9:16 am

    #1 tip: Listen to your body!

  • Casey @Spicy&Sweet January 12, 2010, 9:16 am

    My number 1 healthy living tip is to make it FUN! Whether that means dancing as opposed to more traditional “working out” or trying a new recipe, I think you have to experiment to realize that living healthy can be fun as well as beneficial. And as always, attitude is 80% of the battle!

  • Melissa O. January 12, 2010, 9:17 am

    I suppose there’s a lot of healthy tips that could rank number 1, but I’m going to go with: always packing a healthy snack. I’ve found that simply making sure I have something nutritious to munch on while I’m at work (and can’t eat full meals), prevents me from absent-mindedly munching or letting myself get so hungry that I eat the first thing I can get my hands on. This has come a long way in helping me lose those extra lbs!

    Thanks for the giveaway, this book looks awesome!
    Have a great Tuesday! :]

  • Diana (Mymarblerye) January 12, 2010, 9:20 am

    health begins with your mind. I still struggle with this but it’s important to be healthy for YOURSELF and not cause you want that girls thighs or that girls butt. Be happy with yourself and be healthy for yourself.

  • Carrie C. in VA January 12, 2010, 9:20 am

    My tip: Never leave the house without the gym bag. If you have to stop back home to get it after work, you will find the couch too tempting and probably not make it to the gym.

  • Stacy January 12, 2010, 9:20 am

    Fitness Tip: Get up early to exercise. It sets the tone for the rest of the day. If I don’t I can tell the rest of the day.

  • kristin January 12, 2010, 9:20 am

    my #1 tip is “everything in moderation”!

    congrats again on the marathon – i hope your ankle is ok!

  • Sami January 12, 2010, 9:24 am

    My #1 tip would be to always get some type of physical activity in. Sedentary lifestyles are so dangerous!

  • Kayla January 12, 2010, 9:24 am

    My #1 tip is to move! Even if it’s only dancing around your living room 🙂
    And that oatmeal looks awesome – going to go make some now!

  • Jessica January 12, 2010, 9:24 am

    My number one healthy tip is to never diet. I beleive in eating healthy foods in moderation. If you deprive yourself you will feel unsatifised and unhappy.A few bites of something bad never harmed anyone.

  • Courtney January 12, 2010, 9:25 am

    Number 1 tip is to PLAN. Plan your workout, plan your food, plan your sleep. This will help you stick to it!
    I love SPARK PEOPLE!!!!
    Courtney
    adventures in tri-ing

  • Ilene January 12, 2010, 9:26 am

    My #1 health tip is to never give up 🙂

  • Neely January 12, 2010, 9:26 am

    I guess I would say the best tip I have heard is to get sufficient rest. Whether that be allowing your body days off or getting more sleep at night.

    …I hope your foot/ankle gets much better. Regardless though, just think about how totally worth it even an injury is given the feat you accomplished Sunday. 🙂

  • Kara (@ Kara's Marathon) January 12, 2010, 9:26 am

    My #1 tip (that I need to practice more than I do now!) is to not expect perfection, just progress. No one is perfect, so if you stop striving for perfection and just focus on making the “better” choices at every meal, you’ll be much happier and much more likely to stick to your goals.

    Looking forward to your lunchtime post!

  • Britt @ Runnerbelle January 12, 2010, 9:26 am

    My #1 tip is schedule your workout like an appointment, write it down and make it happen.

    Love Spark!!

  • Erin January 12, 2010, 9:28 am

    My #1 health tip is to make sure to get some kind of exercise everyday!

  • Sue January 12, 2010, 9:28 am

    Congrats on the marathon, it looks like it was hard and well worth it.

    My #1 tip would be to surround yourself with those who encourage the healthy lifestyle you live, so that you are always kept in check and never feeling bad about wanting to do something good!

  • katherine January 12, 2010, 9:28 am

    My #1 tip is to smile at myself! Too often I’m way too hard on myself and that leads to negative behavior. If I smile at myself, it reminds me to keep things in perspective, appreciate myself and to keep a positive attitude.

  • RhodeyGirl January 12, 2010, 9:29 am

    Half marathon training made it very hard for me to lose the 4 lbs I gained since our wedding. I am all about it now though, since I don’t have to worry about long runs every single weekend!

    Thanks for your number 1 tip. I needed to hear that on a day like today.

    My number 1 tip is to just be normal. Don’t overexercise, but don’t under-exercise either. Don’t overeat, and don’t under-eat. Don’t eat junk, but don’t eat ONLY healthy foods. Don’t sleep too little, and don’t sleep too much. Etc. I have found that I am my happiest healthiest self when I am just… normal!

  • Emily January 12, 2010, 9:30 am

    I absolutely LOVE SparkPeople.com. As a matter of fact, when I haven’t done any sort of cardio for the day and it’s almost bedtime I YouTube some of their videos. Their “trainer” is my kind of woman. She lets you know that it’s ok if you can’t keep up and gives you “easier” options if you can’t do exactly what she is doing. This is helpful bc instead of stopping and waiting for the next rep of whatever you can still do something. Unlike many other trainers that cuss and tell you you’re a sissy if you can’t do something. Ok. Rant over!!

    My Tip: Do the best YOU can do. In time all things will play out accordingly.

  • syl January 12, 2010, 9:30 am

    Start excepting and being excited about the changes you are making and who you are becoming from the very start.

    After losing the weight it is very hard for your mind to catch up with the physical changes of your body..trust me I know 🙂

  • Scorpio Woman January 12, 2010, 9:31 am

    My #1 tip is that we have to sit down and take time to enjoy our meal.

  • Camille January 12, 2010, 9:33 am

    My #1 tip is… surprise… exercise!
    Running makes me feel healthy, powerful and beautiful!

  • Kate January 12, 2010, 9:33 am

    This book sounds so interesting! My favorite health tip is to not let one slip up ruin your whole day – or week, year, etc. If you indulge, miss a work out, etc., just get right back to it!

    I am very interested to hear how marathon training went, overall!

  • Laura H. January 12, 2010, 9:35 am

    My #1 tip is to not compare yourself to other people in what you are presently able to do or are interested in doing. Everyone’s body is created differently, and therefore what works for someone else might not work for you. Do what is best for YOUR wonderful, unique body!

  • Caroline January 12, 2010, 9:35 am

    My tip is to take it one day at the time and smile. One day of indulgence won’t take all the hard work away. You need to listen to your body.

    Working your inner peace is as important as working your muscles.

  • Morgan @ Life After Bagels January 12, 2010, 9:37 am

    My number 1 tip is – use other people for motivation, not influence, only you can decide what healthy living means to you

  • Kim January 12, 2010, 9:37 am

    My #1 tip is drinking lots of water. Most other drinks can contain empty calories, plus there are so much more health benefits from drinking water.

  • Jessica @ How Sweet January 12, 2010, 9:39 am

    Don’t enter me in the giveaway – I already won the book!

    But – my #1 tip is WHATEVER it is you want to do – train for something, lose weight, etc, it takes patience and must be done in a ‘lifestyle’ way. One will never succeed if they can’t follow something consistently!

  • Evan Thomas January 12, 2010, 9:40 am

    See your house as a part time gym. Just because you’re home doesn’t mean you can’t work out and hard

  • Freckles January 12, 2010, 9:40 am

    My #1 tip is to have FUN with exercising and living healthy!

  • Laura S January 12, 2010, 9:40 am

    Never give up! Stay motivated and keep positive people around you!

  • Jennifer January 12, 2010, 9:41 am

    Hello. I stumbled onto your website through Eat, Live, Run. Holy crap that marathon was amazing! You are awesome! I am struggling right now with my weight and I don’t really have any tips. After I had my son, I had gained 60 pounds. I finally lost all the weight after a few years and then the husband left us. Ha, nice right? Then I gained all that back and then some. Now I am the largest I have ever been and can’t stop eating! grrr!

    So, I am really not one to give *tips*. But what I like that some people do is to not weigh themselves. They have a pair of jeans that they guage things on. They start to get tight, they pay attention. They don’t allow themselves to grow out of them. lol. The scale can be so demoralizing.

    I actually went to the doctor yesterday and they have a new scale in their office .. it was this giant platform you had to stand on and the number showed up on the wall. OMG how awful was that. Not as big as the Biggest Loser scale however. ha ha. But, same concept. Anyway, I will stop now, but congratulations on the marathon. That really is an amazing accomplishment.

    • caitlin January 12, 2010, 10:03 am

      Hi Jennifer! 🙂 1) the scale sounds terrible 2) i think you’re right about using a pair of pants! and 3) thanks for stopping by 🙂

  • Lauren @ Eater not a runner January 12, 2010, 9:41 am

    My number one tip is to forgive yourself! If you eat something unhealthy don’t beat yourself up, just resolve to do better at the next meal. The less guilt you have the easier it is do eat well!

  • Kate January 12, 2010, 9:41 am

    My number one healthy living tip is not to be influenced by the lifestyle and eating habits of others. Instead, listen to your body and give it what it is asking for;treat it with respect.

  • MaryZ January 12, 2010, 9:47 am

    Everything in moderation…one bad day does not cause you to gain excess weight!

  • Jocelyn January 12, 2010, 9:49 am

    I love SparkPeople, I use it everyday! My #1 tip is to make decisions that are good for your body and mind. I feel so much better when I eat greens and yogurt than when I eat onion rings and french fries. And I feel better when I get some exercise, whether its an 8 mile run or 20 min of yoga!

  • Elizabeth January 12, 2010, 9:51 am

    My #1 tip is: “Something is better than nothing.” Living healthfully does not have to be all or nothing. Sometimes I only have time for a 15 minute run, so I’ll do that, rather than giving up because I can’t work out for a full hour. 🙂

  • Sara January 12, 2010, 9:51 am

    My #1 tip would be to not be so hard on yourself. You have to cheer yourself on and stay positive if you are down on yourself you will never reach your full potentional – in short, LOVE YOURSELF! 🙂

    I would love a copy of this book!!!

  • Nikky January 12, 2010, 9:51 am

    I adore sparkpeople.com, they’ve been such a HUGE help.

    My number one tip… Everything is a choice. Trying to commit yourself to a lifetime of healthy eating seems so hard when you start out. It’s so much easier when you realize that each time you eat something, each minute you don’t do something active… that’s a choice. You don’t have to be perfect, you should strive to make more “good” choices than you did yesterday, and that’s all. One not so great choice doesn’t mean you’ve failed for a whole day, or completely. You just make a better choice next time. One thing at a time.

  • Mallory January 12, 2010, 9:51 am

    what a great tip, caitlin – something i really need to remind myself of every day!

    my #1 healthy living tip is to LISTEN to your body – it may need exercise, rest, veggies, etc. – it knows what it needs, you just need to listen 🙂

  • stacey January 12, 2010, 9:52 am

    My best tip is moderation. It’s so simple, yet vert effective!

  • ashley January 12, 2010, 9:53 am

    My number 1 tip is MODERATION! Don’t indulge in too many desserts, but don’t deprive yourself either. Don’t sit on the couch all day, but don’t let exercise rule your life. Yep, it’s not that easy, but moderation is the key to a healthy life!

  • Nicole January 12, 2010, 9:53 am

    I’m really good about always having a healthy breakfast. It sets me up to eat healthy the rest of the day.

  • Jenni January 12, 2010, 9:53 am

    “Don’t be afraid!”

    Don’t be afraid to start, to change, to try. These are all things that I was afraid of doing and kept holding me back from becoming healthier. I was scared to start trying to loose weight as I thought it would be ‘too hard’. I was afraid I would have to change everything about my life and that I wouldn’t like the changes I would have to make. I was afraid to try and fail.

    As my mom always says… there is nothing wrong with trying and failing, but there is something wrong with not trying at all!

  • Liz January 12, 2010, 9:53 am

    My #1 tip: Always eat a good, healthy breakfast

  • Lara January 12, 2010, 9:54 am

    My #1 healthy tip is to eat veggies. Lots of em.

  • Katharine January 12, 2010, 9:54 am

    I’m interested to see what changes you’ve noticed since training began. I’ll defintely be keeping my eyes out for that post!

  • Lizz January 12, 2010, 9:55 am

    Focus on how far you’ve gone not how far you have to go. For example: I just ran a mile! Rather than I still have 2.2 miles to go…ugh! I find myself going farther than my goals usually because I hit the wall, get over it and don’t want to stop. I also avoid the “I can’t language” by saying “I tried…and I’ll try again until I get it.”

  • SaraSEats January 12, 2010, 9:55 am

    It was nice meeting you at the blogger lunch- I live in the same apt complex as Kelly.
    Congrats on running the marathon! I can’t believe it’s over… I’m a little sad. I hope your foot heals fast!
    Tip: Always listen to your body & make exercise fun. 🙂

  • Sarah @ See Sarah Eat January 12, 2010, 9:56 am

    I think my number one tip would be to love yourself. You can’t achieve anything great if you are stuck in negativity.

    I can’t wait to hear about your marathon experiences!

  • Hilary January 12, 2010, 9:57 am

    Pay attention. You’re more likely to be successful if you aren’t living on auto pilot.

  • Meredith January 12, 2010, 9:57 am

    Using SparkPeople opened my eyes to just how much I was eating by tracking my calories. Using the site, I have seen my weight go down almost TWENTY POUNDS!! Now that I have a general idea of my eating patterns, I keep myself in check by logging in to see how I am doing.

    My tip? Focus on what you CAN achieve! So often, women especially, beat themselves up for the negative things we see in ourselves. Instead, we need to concentrate on what we CAN do!

    Personally, I don’t like my legs, I think they are ‘thick’ and I have big calf muscles. But in order to aappreciate them, I think of what my legs have and CAN do for me! And what they’ve allowed me to do is train smart and consistantly for 2 half marathons in the fall that just past, and will carry me across the finish line of my next goal, a 30KM race in March!

  • Abbe January 12, 2010, 9:58 am

    My #1 tip is to be mindful of what you eat. You can still enjoy your favorites foods – just in moderation. Since joining WW I have realized that tracking what you eat can really open your eyes and is very helpful in aiding in weight loss as well as living a healthy lifestyle overall.

  • Erin January 12, 2010, 9:58 am

    Make life changes, not temporary cutbacks. You can’t give up chocolate or bread forever; you can make healthy day-by-day decisions that add up to big change.

  • Tammy January 12, 2010, 9:59 am

    Lately the most helpful healthy living tip has been to recognize the power of rest! There is alot iof repairing to do when we stress our bodies, and that is just as helpful to improving as pushing to the limit! My friends and I joke about the “little men” inside that have repair work to do after a hard run or workout!

  • Lesley January 12, 2010, 9:59 am

    My number one tip is: floss every day! It’s a really easy thing you can do that’s cheap and good for you!

  • Kyle January 12, 2010, 9:59 am

    Focus on how you feel, what makes you feel good. Trust yourself.

  • Penny January 12, 2010, 9:59 am

    Hmmm….I think my number one tip would be to just MAKE THE EFFORT. So many people I know don’t do anything to improve their lifestyle. And I’m sorry to say this (really I am), but it is usually due to laziness. If one can only fit in a 10 minute walk a day, then do it! If one only replaces a unhealthy, empty calorie snack with a piece of fruit, then great! At least those small things are a start. And usually, those small efforts escalate into bigger efforts. Hopefully. 🙂

  • Sarah January 12, 2010, 9:59 am

    My #1 tip is that you should not underestimate the importance of good sleep habits! Sleep deprivation affects everything–weight gain, athletic performance, eating habits, work performance. Make sure to get at least 7.5 hrs per night (and don’t forget that everyone is different–your body may need more!)

  • Julie January 12, 2010, 9:59 am

    My number tip: Love myself first, and always let my friends and family I love them too. And laugh often.

  • Heather (The Single Dish) January 12, 2010, 9:59 am

    Make changes in your life that you can achieve, small ones make a big difference.

  • Rose January 12, 2010, 10:00 am

    Number one tip: Balance. Balance everything in your life, and everything will work out.

  • Kara M. January 12, 2010, 10:00 am

    My #1 healthy living tip is to not compare yourself to other people. It’s not about how other people look, it’s about how you feel.

  • Amanda January 12, 2010, 10:02 am

    ALWAYS eat breakfast!

  • alli January 12, 2010, 10:03 am

    I can’t wait for the post!
    My #1 tip would be balance. Balance is so important in all aspects of life, and I believe that having balance creates a healthy lifestlye. Funny note: my husbands landscape business is called Balance Landscaping, and his brother owns Balance Chiropractic. I guess it’s important to our family 🙂

  • Crystal January 12, 2010, 10:04 am

    My #1 healthy tip is to love and accept yourself. Once that is accomplished, the rest will follow!

  • katie davis January 12, 2010, 10:05 am

    My #1 healthy eating tip is everything in moderation. I love sweets, so if I completely deprived myself I would go insane. The hard part is letting yourself have some without going totally overboard 🙂

  • Becca January 12, 2010, 10:06 am

    Mine is to always enjoy what you do, because as soon as it is no longer fun, that’s when you can hurt yourself!

  • Katie January 12, 2010, 10:07 am

    Don’t look at working out as a chore, otherwise you will dread it and probably stop doing it altogether. Instead, focus on the benefits of it and how you feel after finishing a workout…then look forward to that!

  • Alaina January 12, 2010, 10:08 am

    Mine is to take this journey one day at a time, instead of making lofty long-term goals. Be aware of what you’re doing/eating in the moment.

  • Jaclyn January 12, 2010, 10:09 am

    My tip is to treat your body as your temple. I try to think of how I’m honouring my body when I eat, will it make my body happy or not? Of course sometimes the mind wins but I try to honour my body most of the time.

  • Jess January 12, 2010, 10:09 am

    Heaps of great tips! My number one tip is to find something active you LOVE to do that doesn’t feel like exercise.

    As a teenager I could not stand sports or exercise, and then I started karate with my brother. I realised I was addicted to it and that inspired me to look after my body and not be afraid of sweating it out doing other things. 🙂

  • Jennifer January 12, 2010, 10:10 am

    My best tip is to find healthy substitutes for favorites… a little taste of dark chocolate instead of a snickers bar, etc. 🙂 it all adds up.

  • Morgan January 12, 2010, 10:10 am

    water, water and more water!

  • Katie January 12, 2010, 10:12 am

    My best tip is to write all of your workouts down- it will motivate you and keep yourself accountable!

  • carolyn~ January 12, 2010, 10:15 am

    My #1 is a simple one. Eat breakfast or honestly eat meals or snacks before the hunger sets in. I fell into that trap this past weekend. I went to the gym early grabbed a coffee on the way home for me and my husband. Crawled back into bed and then at 11 am I was STARVING. I ate whatever I could find quick and it was downhill the rest of the day.

  • Rosey Rebecca January 12, 2010, 10:15 am

    My favorite tip is to just concentrate on how you feel and stay in tune with your body!

  • Amanda January 12, 2010, 10:15 am

    My number one healthy living tip is to surround yourself with information- read books, blogs, and other texts to put you in control of your choices!

  • Tricia January 12, 2010, 10:15 am

    My best tip is…Appreciate what your body can do for you.
    There is far too much focus on what your body looks like, and not enough on appreciation of what your body does for you each day.

  • Lauren January 12, 2010, 10:17 am

    I try and be realistic and drink lots of water! 🙂

  • Graze With Me January 12, 2010, 10:18 am

    Always have a goal, even if it is something small – nothing beats that feeling of accomplishment.

  • Beth @ DiningAndDishing January 12, 2010, 10:19 am

    Focus on yourself and what is best for you and you alone. Don’t compare yourself to others – just focus on you!

  • Super G January 12, 2010, 10:19 am

    My #1 healthy living/eating tip: It’s ok to snack. It’s all about balance. Carbs and Protein! Complex carbs and lean protein.
    Not everybody gets it but I live by it.
    Congratulations again Caitlin! You are such an inspiration.

  • Ashley January 12, 2010, 10:21 am

    My No. 1 healthy living tip is moderation. And I’ve lost 120 pounds doing it! 🙂

  • Sam January 12, 2010, 10:22 am

    My No. 1 healthy living tip is to not beat yourself up after a slip up… dust yourself off and get back in the game!

  • Rebecca January 12, 2010, 10:25 am

    My no. 1 health tip is to just keep moving, you may get tired and need to slow down, but don’t give up!

  • Denise January 12, 2010, 10:26 am

    My No. 1 tip is to stay centered and balanced by thanking God for all of the CRAZY GREAT THINGS that your body and mind CAN do instead of focussing on the few things that it cant(yet!) do!!!!!
    Congrats on your Marathon!!!!

  • Aynsley - WrenLife.com January 12, 2010, 10:26 am

    When you get off track and lose focus…that doesn’t mean it’s over and you’re back to square one or you should give up. Give yourself a break and tell yourself that the rest of that day or week is not going to be derailed, that you are still committed and proud of yourself. That kind of thinking will prevent you from slowing down and looking back in a year or two and having to start all over.

  • MariamK January 12, 2010, 10:27 am

    my tip would be to be realistic and dont make unrealistic goals. Make BIG goals but maybe make mini goals that will work toawards that big goal!

  • Ali January 12, 2010, 10:28 am

    My fav. (& #1) healthy living tip is not to let a slip up or set back = falling off the wagon entirely! No one can be perfect!

  • Meredith January 12, 2010, 10:31 am

    In addition to daily workouts, I take every opportunity to MOVE. At work I never take the elevator – always the stairs. I wear comfortable shoes to work (even though I wear suits) so that I don’t feel like I want to sit at my desk all day. Even cleaning/organizing the house when I get home from work helps to burn extra calories. Every little bit counts!

  • Heather @ The Joyful Kitchen January 12, 2010, 10:32 am

    my favorite tip is actually something the fitnessista mentioned the other day: drop the all or nothing attitude. doing a little bit day by day and developing consistency is one of the best confidence boosters when it comes to fitness!

  • Mary @ Fit this girl January 12, 2010, 10:32 am

    Cool giveaway and sorry about the foot! 🙁

    I think the number one tip is Water, water, water! If you can’t do anything else, you can drink water and it will: help you sleep, keep your skin glowing, cleanse your system, help your hunger cravings, help keep the pounds at bay and help you perform better than ever!! It’s like Magic!

  • Jordan @ Salt Sweat Sugar January 12, 2010, 10:34 am

    My #1 tip is to remember that I’m allowed to fail and start again. It’s only failing if you stop trying.

  • becky January 12, 2010, 10:36 am

    my #1 healthy living tip is to eat when i’m HUNGRY! i thought being healthy for the longest time was ignoring your hunger because it would just go away, but now i listen to my body and give it what it wants, and learned to recognize when I’m just thirsty or bored.

  • Emily January 12, 2010, 10:37 am

    My number one tip is to not give up when you have one slip-up in your day. So many people think that if they have a high-calorie and fattening lunch that their day is over and it’s best just to start over tomorrow. You can still make healthy choices the rest of your day and try to balance out that terrible lunch 🙂 There’s no time like the present!

  • Lauren @ Dragonflies Journey January 12, 2010, 10:39 am

    My #1 tip is to take fitness in small chunks. Meaning, take your goal and break it into smaller, more attainable goals before going whole hog on the huge goal.

  • Lisa January 12, 2010, 10:39 am

    My tip would be to not compare yourself to others – can’t say that I’m always following this but it’s important to be accepting of who you are. And nice finish to your marathon year!

  • Laura January 12, 2010, 10:40 am

    It’s so hard to pick just *one* healthy living tip, since it’s a whole lifestyle that permeates almost every decision I make on a daily basis. If I had to pick a “mantra,” I guess it would be “STRONG AND STEADY.” In other words, in everything I do (running, eating, working, playing), I try to operate at a level that gives me the momentum to continue at that rate without crashing. That way, one part of life doesn’t overwhelm another, and I can keep working towards my goals in all areas. Also, it keeps my stress level manageable and even, and I know I am happiest, healthiest, and most productive when I am not experiencing spiking anxiety.

  • debby January 12, 2010, 10:40 am

    Makae your goal fitness and health, not thinness and ‘beauty.’

  • Kerry January 12, 2010, 10:41 am

    First off, CONGRATS CAITLIN! Following you through your marathon adventure has been so SO exciting. You should be very proud 🙂
    My number one tip is ‘something is better than nothing.’ While planning workouts is great, sometimes its overwhelming to face big workouts when you for some reason that day you’re not feeling it. Instead of nixing it altogether, get out there and put in some form of excercise–the effort will make you feel good about yourself, and sometimes, just getting out there is the hardest part and you complete what was originally scheduled!!

  • esperanza January 12, 2010, 10:43 am

    My tip is get plenty of sleep because it will help you make better decisions with food and keep you moving throughout the day 🙂

  • Kaye Lyssy January 12, 2010, 10:45 am

    My tip is slow and steady….learned after many years of beating myself up over “all or nothing”.

  • taylor January 12, 2010, 10:45 am

    be consistent in all you decide to do and hold your self accountable (:

  • postcollegecook January 12, 2010, 10:46 am

    Here’s one tip: pack your lunch every day (if you work in an office or are in school). That way you can think ahead and pack what you want yourself to eat. If you wait till you’re hungry and hit the cafeteria, those fries might be too tempting!

  • Becca January 12, 2010, 10:51 am

    Number one tip–be JOYFUL about living a healthy life. I find that when my attitude is negative, my body reflects this. Be happy with where your body is at, knowing that today is another day and I get to choose to be healthy! This should bring you joy! Health involves all aspects of your life–so find ways to make life fun and positive 🙂

  • Heather January 12, 2010, 10:53 am

    My number one tip is; baby steps! Getting healthy does not happen over night. It takes time for your body to adjust and find balance.

  • Reghan January 12, 2010, 10:56 am

    This is my first time ever commenting but I love your blog and read it daily! I’ve recently lost 50lbs with 20lbs left to go. I feel great and your blog is great motivation to keep up with my new healthy lifestyle.
    My #1 healthy living tip is “everything in moderation”…that way of life has gotten me where I am today 🙂

  • Beverly January 12, 2010, 10:57 am

    My number one tip is don’t wait until a great starting date, make a healthy choice the very next time you have to choose. Just because you were bad at lunch does not mean you have to be bad at dinner too.

    Congratulations on the marathon!!!

  • The Paris Food Blague January 12, 2010, 10:58 am

    so cute!

  • Hannah Hawley January 12, 2010, 10:58 am

    My healthy living tip is to live life. Let go of your slip-ups and know that mistakes happen. As long as the “mistakes” are just that, and don’t become the rule.

  • genesis January 12, 2010, 10:59 am

    #1 tip is dont be too hard on yourself! its something i tell myself often because you will inevitably fall off the wagon once in a while and thats no reason to throw it all out the window and forget all your progress. just take it in strides.

  • Ashley (whole-ier) January 12, 2010, 11:00 am

    My healthy living tip is keep on trying. Even when I’ve had a bad day, missed a workout or binged on some “bad” foods. I never give up on my goal of becoming healthy.

  • Heidi January 12, 2010, 11:01 am

    my #1 healthy living tip is to write everything down. I find i keep myself accountable for my lifestyle choices and maintaining my good eating and workout habits when i write them down. If i don’t write everything down I find myself more apt to fall off the wagon. However, in addition to that, don’t beat yourself up when something doesn’t go right, just pick yourself up and get right back to where you left off.

  • skinnyrunner January 12, 2010, 11:02 am

    exercise first thing in the morning. that way its a healthy start for the rest of the day and all your following choices.

  • Mary January 12, 2010, 11:02 am

    My healthy living tip is to not deny yourself of things that you enjoy. Instead, enjoy everything in moderation. You will be so much happier.

  • Jennifer January 12, 2010, 11:04 am

    My number 1 healthy living tip is to eat what you enjoy, but remember that food is meant as fuel for our body, bottom slow us down.

  • Mariel January 12, 2010, 11:05 am

    Schedule exercise into your life just like you would a meeting or doctors appointment.

  • Heather ODonnell January 12, 2010, 11:05 am

    My tip comes from the laws of physics. An object in motion, tends to stay in motion. It is so much easier to stay active than it is to start being active. So just do something! And then keep doing something. Before you know it, doing something is a normal part of your life.

  • Loretta @ RunRettaRun January 12, 2010, 11:08 am

    My tip is “One step at a time. Don’t try to change it all at once because you are setting yourself up for failure. It took time to develop unhealthy habits and it will take time to undo them.”

  • Ann K January 12, 2010, 11:09 am

    Because I realize how good breakfast is for everyone and how friggin’ good it is I cut myself off a dinner. I always tend to not eat enough during the day and overdo it in the evening. I have my fiance help me stop after dinner and a mug of tea/hot cocoa and it does wonders for how I sleep, eat, and treat the next day. I also get the added benefit of focusing on our realationship, my art, and fun things in the evening instead of food!

  • laura January 12, 2010, 11:09 am

    My #1 healthy tipping is to write down what you eat throughout the day. Lots of times those bites, licks, and nibbles add up! Seeing what you put in your mouth and body will help change the way you eat and think.

  • Katherine January 12, 2010, 11:11 am

    I’ve learned, especially through blogging and Twitter, that no (wo)man is an island – ask for support and support others, too!

  • caroane January 12, 2010, 11:16 am

    My tip is to only eat when you’re hungry. Sounds obvious, but it makes a world of difference!

  • Jaime January 12, 2010, 11:18 am

    My number one tip is to remember that health is not a contest…it’s your life! No need to compete with anyone else, or yourself. Just be the best person you can be!

  • Monica January 12, 2010, 11:19 am

    Ever since I was young my mom has told me “EVERYTHING in moderation” (alcohol, exercise, eating, watching tv…) and as I’m going to drink that 2nd (or 5th;)) glass of wine I always hear her say it. Also “waist not”, eat until you’re full and don’t eat just because you don’t want to waste food, or it will end up on your waist. Haha it’s a corny play on words, but I always hear it in my head:)

  • Jenny January 12, 2010, 11:19 am

    My healthy living tip is to take everything one step of a time . . . I think it’s easy to beat yourself up over weight gain, unintentional weight loss, or a skipped gym visit. I think everyone needs to take a step back, regroup, and tackle the issue.

  • Marlene January 12, 2010, 11:19 am

    My #1 health tip is to love to WALK. I truly believe that walking is the absolute healthiest thing you can do for your body. I especially love walking to and from work because it is: a) a great way to mentally separate work from life, b) is environmentally friendly, c) it does not require any special gear or work out clothes and is low impact, and d) allows me to be active without taking up too much time in my schedule (my 40 min walk to work is only 20 min more than what it would take me if I rode the bus).

  • Natalie Rae January 12, 2010, 11:23 am

    #1 health tip is eat unprocessed food- fruits, veggies, meats, nuts, natural items, homemade sauces, etc- You will get the right carbs, proteins, vitamens, etc this way and your body will love you- It makes you feel better to put the right things in you for fuel… this method cuts cravings- eliminates mindless eating- and cleanses you to crave what is good for you!

  • jvegegirl January 12, 2010, 11:25 am

    #1 health tip: don’t stress out about it! Just eat whole plant foods and it’ll work out 🙂

  • Nikki T January 12, 2010, 11:26 am

    The tip I try to live by is: Everything in Moderation…eat healthy MOST of the time, indulge sometimes! Don’t deprive yourself!

  • Karla January 12, 2010, 11:26 am

    Anyone can lose weight without working out, by decreasing their calories. However, this will just cause you to have a smaller version of the body you have now. If you have love handles, you’ll still have them. Working out will change your body!

  • Molly @vegandorm January 12, 2010, 11:29 am

    My #1 healthy living tip is to add vegetables to any dish – nutritious and filling! For example, instead of having a bowl of beans, add some steamed veggies.

  • Carly January 12, 2010, 11:30 am

    #1 Tip: Do one thing every day that brings you closer to your goal. For example, if you are unable to run one day, read an article about running online.

  • Morgan @ Healthy Happy Place January 12, 2010, 11:30 am

    my tip: Happiness is a choice! when you wake up each day, do things that will brighten your mood. Being happy is the first step to being a healthy person!

  • Brittany P January 12, 2010, 11:30 am

    My #1 tip would be to remember this isn’t a diet this a lifestyle. Everything in moderation, keeping active…are all important in achieving a lifetime of healthiness!

  • Ashley @ Good Taste. Healthy Me January 12, 2010, 11:30 am

    I love your tip! That’s so true. Doing your best is different for everyone. My tip is to start living healthy right away. Don’t wait till Sunday to start. Start at your next meal!

  • Tanya January 12, 2010, 11:30 am

    Fiber, Fiber, Fiber

  • Jenny @ nutmegger January 12, 2010, 11:32 am

    My healthy living tip has actually been blogging! Since I started I have had a virtual support system every day and a way to vent or be held accountable or to gain motivation. Even just reading them is a great way to learn different perspectives and knowledge about health, nutrition, exercise, and a balanced life. 🙂

  • Megan @ Healthy Hoggin January 12, 2010, 11:32 am

    My #1 tip would be eliminate as much processed food as you can. Focusing on fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds and whole grains is a recipe for success!

  • Deva (Voracious Vorilee) January 12, 2010, 11:33 am

    My number one health tip is not to fret if you miss a day of exercise, or miss a day of healthy eating. Worrying just makes you stress unnecessarily, and healthy living is a journey that shouldn’t cause you stress!

  • Rachel S January 12, 2010, 11:34 am

    My healthy living tip is to envision success. If I’m struggling with a workout or feel discouraged after overindulging, this really helps me and inspires me to get going again!

  • Kelly January 12, 2010, 11:35 am

    My #1 tip is write it down, i think the most shocking thing sometimes is to really see in black and white what you’ve ate everyday, everything adds up!!

    BTW…CONGRATS on your Marathon! 🙂 You’re amazing!

  • Sara January 12, 2010, 11:37 am

    My healthy living tip is to always remain positive and if you fall off of your track, just get right back on again!

  • Bridget January 12, 2010, 11:38 am

    Mine is eat as close to nature as you can. Forget the diets and fads, just eat REAL food and by doing that you will (without even trying) get to your ideal weight and also be mentally strong without the crazy highs and lows of sugar and processed food.

  • John January 12, 2010, 11:39 am

    Eat right as it’s 80% of the equation. I’m trying to get the exercise in but damn it’s cold out right now 🙂

    Oh yeah I guess I just delurked. I enjoy your blog along with others. You all provide some great healthy meal ideas and great attitude that’s helping me turn around my bad eating habits.

  • Janna (Just Flourishing) January 12, 2010, 11:41 am

    My tip: Eighty percent of success is simply showing up.

    Seriously. If you want more exercise in your life. Get up, lace up those sneakers and go! Just take that first step and you are MORE than on your way.

  • Jessica @ Jessica Balances January 12, 2010, 11:42 am

    My #1 tip is to just MOVE as often as you can. It doesn’t have to be a specific workout – just get up and move, and have fun!

  • Tara January 12, 2010, 11:43 am

    Realize that you have ONE body and ONE life- do as much as you can do respect your body and life 🙂

    These are all great! Thanks to everyone!

  • Courtney January 12, 2010, 11:49 am

    If you want to lose weight – eat less and move more. If you want to be healthy – eat well and move more. I’m working EVERY day to live by this!

  • Anne Marie@New Weigh of Life January 12, 2010, 11:52 am

    My healthy living tip is to eat everything in moderation. Deprivation does not work!

  • Laura T. January 12, 2010, 11:52 am

    have fruit and/or veggies with every meal 🙂

  • Raya January 12, 2010, 11:55 am

    I am not crazy about veggies so my tip is to always eat your vegetables first! Then they’re “out of the way” plus They fill you up so you eat less of the other stuff. 🙂

  • Jen January 12, 2010, 11:57 am

    My #1 tip is to stop focusing on the number on the scale and start listening to your body (hunger, strength, well-being). It’s amazing what we can learn if we just stop and check in.

  • Katy @ These Beautiful Feet January 12, 2010, 11:58 am

    My #1 tip is making small changes whenever you can even if you feel like you don’t have enough time in your day to workout. Park far away from the store you are going to, use the stairs, use your heavy groceries and do some bicep curls. Even if it’s for a few minutes throughout the day it’ll add up!

  • Shannon January 12, 2010, 11:58 am

    do what makes you happy 🙂

  • Susan Grundman January 12, 2010, 11:59 am

    My number one tip is all things in moderation – in conjunction with this is to be kind to yourself. Always celebrate the wonderful things your body can do !!

  • Julie January 12, 2010, 11:59 am

    I know it’s been said but mine is to listen to your body! If it wants rest, then rest. If it is craving a certain food, there’s probably a reason for that.

  • Bridget January 12, 2010, 12:05 pm

    My tip would be to make small changes over time…like stop drinking soda, or slowly reduce the amount of sugar/fat you add to things, and add a ltitle more exercise everyday 🙂

  • Anne @ the doctor takes a wife January 12, 2010, 12:06 pm

    My #1 healthy living tip is just to make small changes everyday. Drink more water, cut out soda, eat an orange instead of candy, etc.

    LOVE sparkpeople–best site ever 🙂

  • Erika January 12, 2010, 12:08 pm

    My main tip that I try to tell myself everyday is to just slow down and appreciate all that I have going for me in my life. I sometimes get down on myself for not having it all (the fancy job, the big house, the bangin’ body) and fail to remember that what I do have is ten million times better.

  • Erin January 12, 2010, 12:12 pm

    everything in moderation- food, actions, exercise, EVERYTHING

  • Lisa January 12, 2010, 12:15 pm

    Be and Love Yourself. Release any fear of what others think of you, let go of trying to fit into the mold of society and learn to love yourself for who you are now- not who you want to be or who you might become.

  • Melissa January 12, 2010, 12:16 pm

    I love SparkPeople. Their groups have kept me going in some pretty dark times.

    My Tip – Keep your body as “clean” as possible. Avoid processed foods, cooking in plastic, using chemical cleaners, etc. When your body doesn’t have a bunch of chemicals disrupting it, it’s easier to listen to it and for it to help regulate itself. It makes everything much easier.

  • Kristy Du January 12, 2010, 12:16 pm

    I have a tip that works really well for me. I am an extremely busy college student, on campus all day and not enough time to prepare meals and snack ahead of time. I keep a tiny Tupperware with raw almonds in my bag at all times. It comes in really handy when I get hungry unexpectedly. It keeps my tummy satisfied until I can feed it. This really worked during December when I was christmas shopping at the mall for hours.

  • Chelsea January 12, 2010, 12:16 pm

    Congratulations Caitlin! I read your blog everyday 🙂

    My #1 tip is to find something you LOVE and that doesn’t feel like exercise. I’ve been a dancer for 17 years (ballet and modern), and I still find passion and inspiration in every dance class I take. I still work my butt off and sweat like a pig–it’s hard! But it makes me feel beautiful, strong, and want to push my body to do even more amazing things. It makes me look forward to “exercise” so much more, and is also a form of creative expression. Also, when I’m dancing regularly, I take such better care of my body naturally–lighter meals, tons more water, earlier bedtime cause I’m so tired from class, etc. etc.

  • Lily @ Lily's Health Pad January 12, 2010, 12:19 pm

    Eat foods that have nutritional value! You will almost instantly look and feel better.

  • Katie January 12, 2010, 12:19 pm

    Make everyday activities count, like shoveling snow!

  • Jesse January 12, 2010, 12:25 pm

    Just don’t quit exercising, no matter what! 🙂

  • Nicci@NiftyEats January 12, 2010, 12:26 pm

    ”Don’t focus on weight but how your body feels”

  • Kristin January 12, 2010, 12:26 pm

    My #1 tip is to push yourself during your workout. When I manage carve out 30 minutes of my day for myself, you better believe I am going to go hard!

  • Kate January 12, 2010, 12:26 pm

    My #1 tip is keep a positive attitude. Yesterday spin class at my health club got messed up (long story). People were so upset some were in tears. I don’t think it is worth the effort to expend that kind of negative energy on one spin class. To me, that is way more unhealthy. Keep a positive attitude and remember what’s really important in life: for me it’s my husband, my friends, my family, and my health.

  • Rachel S January 12, 2010, 12:27 pm

    Sweat Everyday! ( I might have copied that from Lululemon, but it’s what keeps me fit!)

    Congrats on the marathon!

  • Jennifer January 12, 2010, 12:27 pm

    Find a balance between treating yourself to foods you love and those that provide more health benefits…that way you won’t be deprived of treats but will also get in what you need for a healthy living.

  • Kristin January 12, 2010, 12:28 pm

    My tip is to push yourself during your workout. If I manage to carve 30 minutes in the day, you better believe I am going to go hard!

  • Amber K January 12, 2010, 12:28 pm

    Of COURSE I have been to sparkpeople.com! =) That is how I have lost (and kept off) over 90 pounds!

    I have learned many healthy tips along my journey, but my main tip is that you should :

    Remember that YOU are worth it. You are worth every effort to make yourself your best YOU. Treat yourself kindly and be thankful for what your body can DO and not what it looks like.

  • Nidia January 12, 2010, 12:30 pm

    I want that book 🙂 Balance is the key!!!!

  • Heather @ Side of Sneakers January 12, 2010, 12:30 pm

    My #1 tip is you don’t have to be perfect. Trying to do EVERYTHING right all the time can be overwhelming, frustrating, and hard. (and can lead to failure!) Instead, do what you can, when you can, and see all the small changes add up.

  • Hannah January 12, 2010, 12:30 pm

    Every night before I go to bed I try to focus on the little things that I accomplished throughout the day. Something as small as making my bed or choosing not to have an extra cookie puts me in a much better mood then if I were to focus on what I hadn’t accomplished. Doing this is a great way to end the day and motivates me to accomplish even more the next day!

  • Jenna January 12, 2010, 12:31 pm

    Everything in moderation!!

  • Catie January 12, 2010, 12:36 pm

    I just got this book! It’s amazing!!!!!!!

  • Kelley January 12, 2010, 12:36 pm

    My #1 Tip is: Just Move your body in any way possible! The little things add up!

  • susan January 12, 2010, 12:36 pm

    my tip is… don’t let the fear of failure derail you!

    i can easily get bogged down in thoughts of, what if i try this and fail??

    so my mantra is:

    “What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?”

    without the fear of failure… the possibilities are endless!

  • Jessica January 12, 2010, 12:37 pm

    My number one healthy living tip is just to remember that you always have the power of CHOICE. With each little decision during the day, you can choose to be healthy. Choose a salad over a cheeseburger. Choose to run instead of watching TV. Choose to fill up your water bottle when its empty and stay hydrated, as opposed to being to lazy and going without water all day (this is my personal struggle lol). Choose the stairs instead of the elevator. CHOICE is the most powerful tool you can use in your quest for healthy living. Take it one decision at a time, and overall you will find yourself a healthy human being.

  • Joy January 12, 2010, 12:40 pm

    My #1 tip – Surround yourself with like-minded people/friends who value health & fitness as much as you. When you have friends around who eat healthy meals – you will be inspired to keep eating healthy meals and sharing recipes. When your motivation is down – they will lift you up. I like when I make a post on my FB page about how hard a workout class was and one of my running friends writes back with a comment saying “Joy, you area champion!” That really makes my day and keeps me excited to go back to the next class.

  • Allison January 12, 2010, 12:40 pm

    My #1 tip is to do things that are FUN! If you hate to run, go on bike rides instead. If you like group classes, try a new cardio class like dance or cardio weights. Don’t do exercise that you hate; you’ll never stick with it. Choose something that you actually enjoy. Then it feels like fun, not work!

  • Anne @thefitbridesmaid January 12, 2010, 12:40 pm

    Hmmm . . . I’d have to say have a buddy or someone that helps to keep you accountable. Whether it be a running group that meets once a week, friends in a dance class, or just telling your significant other “we’re going to the gym after dinner”, it’ll keep you accountable!

  • Guen January 12, 2010, 12:49 pm

    “Everyday is a new opprotunity to move forward” – Just because you fell off the wagon yesterday doesn’t mean you failed. Today is a new day. Pick yourself up, and continue from where you left off. Giving up would be failure.

  • Clare January 12, 2010, 12:49 pm

    My tip is to find healthy foods that you LOVE to eat! Some people don’t understand how I can eat salads for lunch or baked sweet potatoes and great yogurt…but I CRAVE them! So delicious to me!

  • Jenny January 12, 2010, 12:49 pm

    Find (and try to enjoy) exercise in the every day. Picking up my two small children to play with, parking further out in the lot, choosing to take the stair at work. Little things that don’t take a lot of time can add up to big changes!!

  • Christina January 12, 2010, 12:49 pm

    My #1 Tip: Have fun with healthy cooking. Learning about all of the powerful health benefits behind healthy foods and learning to cook new kinds of cuisine is so much more rewarding than focusing on calories!

  • Whitney January 12, 2010, 12:52 pm

    My tip is to not take everything so seriously! This caused me serious health problems in the past, and now that I’m working on going with the flow and relaxing I am much healthier and happier.

  • Angie (Losing It and Loving It) January 12, 2010, 12:57 pm

    My #1 healthy living tip is to give up soda. I gave up soda almost 5 years ago and water has been pretty much all I drink and I just loved the changes I saw after giving it up.

    Oh and I have to say live life to the fullest and don’t let things bother you. Hubby and I have two sayings we live by….

    “It is what it is” and “There are no problems, only situations”

    Makes for a very happy and fulfilled life!

  • Liz January 12, 2010, 12:57 pm

    I always ask myself if I am proud of my choices. I guess this isn’t really a fitness or health tip but it certainly applies. I feel best when I am proud of my fitness and nutritional goals for a given day.

  • Jenn January 12, 2010, 1:02 pm

    My tip is to get exercise in first thing in the morning. As the day goes on, there will always be a reason not to – too tired, last-minute work issues, etc. I also find that I eat a whole lot better on the days I work out in the morning – it sets a healthy tone for the day!

  • Freya @ foodfitnessandfreya.wordpress.com January 12, 2010, 1:08 pm

    Oh I love your tip 🙂 And I can’t wait to find out about how the marathon has affected you, that’ll be really interesting, seeing as I’m going to do one later this year!

  • Matt January 12, 2010, 1:13 pm

    My tip is don’t sweat the small stuff. We all get off track at some point, but you just gotta keep on keepin on!

  • K January 12, 2010, 1:15 pm

    Start now! If you decide to make a healthy lifestyle change, dont tell yourself you are going to do it tomorrow or next week, start today, no excuses!
    -K

  • Cathy P January 12, 2010, 1:16 pm

    Don’t get discouraged when things aren’t pregressing as quickly as you want- if you progress too quickly than you are lower your odds of your changes becoming permanent changes. 😉

  • Jessica January 12, 2010, 1:19 pm

    I think my #1 tip is to not beat yourself up- so you didn’t go to the gym today, that’s okay, you can go tomorrow. I used to always worry and feel guilty about what I should’ve been doing but wasn’t and it would totally freeze me up so I wouldn’t do anything. Once I got rid of the guilt for not doing something, it made it easier for me to at least do something, even if it wasn’t what I was “supposed” to do.

  • pen January 12, 2010, 1:20 pm

    my #1 tip is to not have any “banned” foods. as soon as i stopped “banning” bad foods from my diet, i really stopped craving them as much.

  • Angie McGovern January 12, 2010, 1:22 pm

    My number 1 healthy living tip is to get enough sleep. When I get my full7-8 hours I find I have the motivation to exercise and I eat better because my body isn’t craving sugar for energy.
    I just joined sparkpeople.com and I love it! I really want to read the book, hope I win!

  • jen trinque January 12, 2010, 1:22 pm

    Number one tip: Be gentle with yourself. You can’t run a marathon after a week of training, you can’t lose ten pounds in a week. Love you the way you are and take it slow!

  • Meredith January 12, 2010, 1:23 pm

    My #1 tip is to remind myself that wellness is not an overnight change & that I CAN achieve it. So far this mindset has helped me lose 60 lbs, and I’m still going! Once I recognized that this was a journey and not a quick fix, I became more confident in my personal abilities and more successful in my journey.

  • Kimberly January 12, 2010, 1:29 pm

    #1 tip….one day at a time! Sometimes life gets overwhelming…so I tell myself, just one day at a time!

    k

  • Jenn Eats Nutritiously Now January 12, 2010, 1:32 pm

    My #1 Healthy Living tip is to make sure what you are doing is making you HAPPY!

  • Kate January 12, 2010, 1:32 pm

    My #1 tip is to take it one day at a time. Small changes add up to big results, and small mistakes do not derail the positive changes!

  • Niki January 12, 2010, 1:33 pm

    My #1 staying healthy advice is WATER…it fills you up and keeps your mouth busy while drinking so you are not tempted to drink or eat something else.

  • Cassie @ A Very Busy Mind January 12, 2010, 1:34 pm

    My tip is also a quote I try to live by: “Don’t be ridiculous…and don’t be afraid to be ridiculous.”

    Don’t be ridiculous as in don’t treat yourself any differently than you would treat your best friend (you wouldn’t tell her to feel bad about herself and to forgo her healthy eating habits because she had one pig out day, nor would you tell her to beat herself up over missing a few workouts).

    Don’t be afraid to be ridiculous as in don’t hold back from doing/saying/eating/etc. something that others might find ridiculous if it works for you and makes you happy.

  • Leslie January 12, 2010, 1:34 pm

    There are a lot of helpful tips, but the one that has helped me do things like go swim in the early hours is this one – Create a network of positive friends with shared goals. It has been easier and more fun to do something like a triathlon when there are friends to train with, wake up early with and to get gelato with after finishing.

  • Lori (Finding Radiance) January 12, 2010, 1:42 pm

    My tip is that small changes add up over time to big health benefits! Too many times we try to overhaul everything at once, get overwhelmed, and quit.

  • Christine January 12, 2010, 1:43 pm

    My favorite healthy living tip I heard somewhere is “Eat lots, mostly plants”.

  • Carly January 12, 2010, 1:43 pm

    My tips: Do something active everyday (run, walk the dog, throw the frisbee around, something!), and also, just know what you are putting into your body, pay attention to your food!

  • Erin January 12, 2010, 1:45 pm

    Try to be active every day even if its only 10 minutes 2-3 times a day. Every minute counts!!

  • Jamie (A Healthy JD) January 12, 2010, 1:47 pm

    My number 1 health tip is to not deprive yourself of what you want, just use moderation when it comes to the indulgent things in life 🙂

  • Jess January 12, 2010, 1:48 pm

    Visualize yourself at your best! Instant motivation :).

  • LadyLara January 12, 2010, 1:52 pm

    My tip is to stop seeing foods as grub and start seeing them for the amazing nutrients they contain.

  • Olga @ Healthing It January 12, 2010, 1:55 pm

    My tip is to stop comparing yourself to others and take your own journey towards a healthy living style. That’s the only way to get the results you want in a reasonable time span.

  • Brooke January 12, 2010, 1:57 pm

    Slip it in so it is second natures. Get into a routine of doing squats while waiting for the microwave…Tricep dips at a certain chair…lunges while waiting for tea to sit…counter push ups between bathroom brushing teeth and flossing. Once you do it enough throughout the day your working in fitness and don’t even think about it.

  • Liz N January 12, 2010, 1:57 pm

    Get 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night. Many people become too overwhelmed with all the things they “need” to do during the day and often forget about getting enough sleep.

  • Paige (Running Around Normal) January 12, 2010, 2:00 pm

    Ooh, can’t wait to read the next post!

    My #1 tip is to learn to LISTEN to your body. It’s actually very smart, and will appreciate when you treat it well, and rebel when you don’t.

    There are some AWESOME tips in these comments:D

  • Lizzy January 12, 2010, 2:11 pm

    my #1 tip would be to just get moving! Any form of exercise is better then none at all!

  • Angela (The Lady Loves to Eat) January 12, 2010, 2:12 pm

    My #1 tip is to get a little exercise everyday even if it’s just a short walk and listen to your bodies needs, if it’s telling you it’s hungry feed it, if its telling you to take a rest do it!

  • Grace January 12, 2010, 2:13 pm

    My tip is to ALWAYS listen to your body!!

  • Melissa January 12, 2010, 2:16 pm

    Lose the ‘all or nothing’ attitude.

  • Ashley January 12, 2010, 2:18 pm

    I love your tip! My number one tip is to be kind to yourself. Too often we are very hard on ourselves, (esp. us type A’s) and focus on every flaw. You only get one you, so make friends with yourself and love yourself for who you are, flaws and all.

  • Samantha Malone January 12, 2010, 2:20 pm

    Drink plenty of water, get plenty of rest, and really listen to your body and don’t forget to smile…all of these things lead to a healthy life, in mind and body.

  • Tracey @ TropicalHappiness January 12, 2010, 2:21 pm

    My best healthy living tip is to just get out there and DO IT. Just a little bit every day is all you need. You don’t need to go crazy spending hours exercising or starving yourself. If you just try little things- like swapping an apple for chips, or taking a 10 minute walk after lunch, you will get healthier! No one ever went out there and walked 10 minutes and became addicted to running. Instead, they walked 10 minutes, and after a few days, they upped it to 20 minutes, and then they tried jogging, and after the finally jogged a mile, they tried two, and somewhere along the lines, they fell in love… 🙂

  • Meg January 12, 2010, 2:29 pm

    work some independent, self-care time into your schedule! Whether that means running, weightlifting, gardening, or knitting – you need to have that time to release some stress and clear your mind!

  • Brendali January 12, 2010, 2:34 pm

    My best healthy living tip is everything in moderation! Dont be afraid to have a little piece of cake every now and then, it really will not hurt you! A diet should not consume your life, healthy living should!!!

  • Christin January 12, 2010, 2:40 pm

    My best advice (to myself, that is) is to listen to my body. It’s so trite, but so true. I often find myself fighting my body, especially when trying to lose a few lbs. But I always end up feeling MUCH better when I am aware and in tune with it. Blogs like this one help build the habit. 🙂

    Thanks for the giveaway, Caitlin! And CONGRATULATIONS on an amazing accomplishment!!!! 🙂

  • Jenny January 12, 2010, 2:47 pm

    My healthy tip is simple: Pay attention to your body. It will tell you what it needs/wants. Too many of us ignore the signals our body sends- whether it’s in the area of self-care, eating, exercise. This is something that I am learning to do…slowly!

    I’m sorry to hear about your foot! Last year I fractured the inside of my kneecap and missed a whole ski season, but that’s because I didn’t practice the care and ease that you do when you even suspect an injury. SMART WOMAN!

    I’ve been on the lookout for those spoons and can’t find them ANYWHERE! 🙁

    • Jenny January 12, 2010, 2:49 pm

      Oh, and um…obviously, i’ve been following the foot thing on Twitter. haha! 😉

  • Jen January 12, 2010, 2:48 pm

    Enjoy what you do for exercise!

  • Jess January 12, 2010, 2:54 pm

    My health tip is to get 8 hours of sleep a night, it helps you focus all day and gives your body a chance to heal itself!

  • Jessica January 12, 2010, 2:54 pm

    I love the spark people website so would love the book! My tip would be to drink water whenever you feel hungry to make sure that you’re actually hungry and not just thirsty.

  • Katie January 12, 2010, 2:55 pm

    8 hours of sleep, a little movement every day, and a big salad works perfectly for me!

  • Lisa January 12, 2010, 3:03 pm

    My #1 healthy living tip is everything in moderation!

  • Betty January 12, 2010, 3:03 pm

    My #1 healthy tip is to have goals. I like having things to work towards.

  • Chava January 12, 2010, 3:04 pm

    I love the Spark! My number #1 tip: surround yourself with positive people and make an EXTREME effort to be positive!

  • daisy melo January 12, 2010, 3:04 pm

    My number one is to break everything down. To live every moment, every second, every period in your life right there. Don’t live for tomorrow. Just for the time right now.

  • Christina January 12, 2010, 3:10 pm

    Everything in moderation!

  • Katie B January 12, 2010, 3:10 pm

    My #1 tip is to allow yourself a small treat each day (for me it’s chocolate). If you don’t feel deprived, then you’re less likely to ruin hard work with a full-out binge.

  • Lisa A. January 12, 2010, 3:21 pm

    My #1 tip would be to drink a lot of water!! Thanks for the giveaway!

  • Julz January 12, 2010, 3:23 pm

    my #1 tip is not to judge other’s habits, just focus on your own!

  • Divya Vikram January 12, 2010, 3:25 pm

    My tip is doing yoga four times a week. Keep smiling!:)

  • Divya Vikram January 12, 2010, 3:25 pm

    My tip is doing yoga four times a week. Keep smiling:)

  • Leanne January 12, 2010, 3:26 pm

    Find something you love to do that includes exercise. It’ll make it much easier to workout often.

  • VeggieGirl January 12, 2010, 3:33 pm

    My tip is to live life in the moment.

  • Bronwyn January 12, 2010, 3:37 pm

    My number one tip is don’t obsess. It’s so easy for many of us health nuts to get so into being healthy we stop living life, with small indulgences here or there, or just enjoying exercise. You can live a healthy balanced lifestyle and have lots of fun!

  • sepha January 12, 2010, 3:42 pm

    caitlin, i just saw this top in the free people catalog and had to rush on over here and tell you about it –

    http://www.freepeople.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/products.detail/productID/8d9dfa83-479b-4106-baa2-5fce44e99655/trunkCategoryID/3af89045-70d2-4425-960c-b42f6309778a/categoryID/d617b879-cb51-4315-b075-62bad2549eb9/catalogPagenumber/3/catalogCategoryID/5f9a46e0-4561-4359-a2ce-cbfc47065455

    and since im commenting on the spark post – i read the motto “begin again now” and i adopted it. bc im the type that says, oh tomorrow morning, or next week, or at 3pm, ill change myself. just do it now. make the next bite healthy, go walking now. now.

    peace

  • grace January 12, 2010, 3:46 pm

    my biggest health tip is something ANYONE, even someone who is completely diet or health phobe can do it. it’s to eat a HEALTHY BREAKFAST. i never used to eat breakfast before, but about a year ago, i decided to start my day with healthy grains, fruits, and veggies…and it seriously made me want to start focusing on how i eat for the rest of the day! i now eat two fruits and a bowl of oat bran…a different mix daily. i never get tired of a single flavor and i love how i could eat chocolate in the morning! 🙂 yayy for bfast! 😀

  • Juli D. January 12, 2010, 3:48 pm

    My number one health tip is to simply make your health your priority. Nobody else is going to do it for you, so if you don’t value your health and make the time for it – no one will. You can either make excuses, or you can make progress.

  • Janelle January 12, 2010, 3:48 pm

    Read Labels! I’ve learned so much by just checking out what is in my food, and as a result am now focusing on foods that don’t come with an ingredient list.

  • Emily January 12, 2010, 4:02 pm

    My #1 tip is everything in moderation. I can not give up sweets so I allow myself a little something every day. I do not ban anything but have everything I like in small amounts.

  • Katie January 12, 2010, 4:09 pm

    Leaning on friends IS alright. Having a cheering crowd does wonders for your motivation and self esteem:)

    P.S – I hope to one day become a runner like you, and be able to smile while running a marathon!!!

  • Corinne January 12, 2010, 4:11 pm

    Everything in moderation – exercise, food, work…laughter in excess!

  • Diana January 12, 2010, 4:17 pm

    #1 – PLAN, PLAN, PLAN!
    Treat exercise like an appointment, just with yourself!

  • Tyler January 12, 2010, 4:18 pm

    I think if you have an “oops” moment it’s important not to make it an “oops” day. If you slip up, get back on track at your next meal/snack. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the “Oh my gosh!” aspect of it, but if you just focus on getting back on track as soon as possible, you will feel a lot happier.

  • Stephanie January 12, 2010, 4:18 pm

    My #1 tip is to never do something today that you can’t do for the rest of your life. Don’t go on a no-carb diet or eat only 1100 calories. Eat healthy like you should every day for the rest of your life.

  • Gracie @ Girl Meets Health January 12, 2010, 4:20 pm

    I absolutely love SparkPeople.com. I’ve been registered there for about 3 or 4 years. Their food tracker, exercise tracker, articles, and message boards truly helped me get to the healthy point I’m at in my life right now!

    My number one healthy tip is to WRITE. I’ve found that keeping a journal of not just what I eat, but how I *feel* about my body and my health has been a crucial step in accepting myself and feeling PROUD of my body. When you realize how amazing the body really is, you become more motivated to take care of it as much as possible.

  • Lisa (bakebikeblog) January 12, 2010, 4:20 pm

    That is an awesome looking breakfast and I can’t wait to read about your post-marathon musings 🙂
    My #1 tip – consistency and moderation 🙂

  • Amy January 12, 2010, 4:21 pm

    My #1 tip is to workout in the morning if you can! not only do you feel better throughout the day, but at 4:30 pm when i leave work, I leave work knowing I can relax… and not have to worry!! and its a great metabolism booster!!

  • Kristen January 12, 2010, 4:29 pm

    #1 tip is to meal plan, it’s nearly impossible to eat healthfully if you do not have healthy food in your home. It also helps save money if you know how you will use all those fresh veggies!

  • Jessica January 12, 2010, 4:37 pm

    My #1 Tip:
    Don’t think of slip ups/falling off the wagon/little mistakes as blowing your whole diet/lifestyle change. It is not ALL OR NOTHING!

  • Carrie H January 12, 2010, 4:48 pm

    Find an exercise activity you love! Even if it’s hard, you will keep doing it, but if you hate it (I HATE gym exercise, love running outside), you might slack a little. Just a little. 🙂

    Hope you ankle heals quickly! Your positive frame of mind can’t hurt!

  • Suzie January 12, 2010, 5:04 pm

    Don’t use exercise as a means to always escape bigger problems in your life. The problems don’t go away just because you avoided thinking about them for ten miles!

  • Melissa January 12, 2010, 5:05 pm

    My #1 healthy living tip is to HAVE FUN while working out. Since my half marathon, I have picked up Zumba and absolutely love it! I am always excited to go to Zumba, so it makes working out easy (although I’m dripping sweat and my muscles kill). I feel that everyone has a workout that they will enjoy….you just have to find yours!

  • Monica January 12, 2010, 5:51 pm

    My tip is to drink lot’s of water! We all know that this is very, very important but many people don’t get enough h2o to keep their bodies hydrated. Plus, water fills you up!

  • Susan January 12, 2010, 6:01 pm

    My number one tip is to cut myself some slack. So many people tackle healthy living with an all-or-nothing attitude, and then give up at the first sign of failure. Some days I eat like crap, skip the gym, stay in bed till noon (okay, maybe 2pm 😛 ). But that doesn’t mean it’s over for me. I just make sure my next choice is a healthy one 🙂

  • Amy January 12, 2010, 6:19 pm

    My tip, especially for someone just getting started on their road to get healthy, is to use Spark People’s free food and exercise tracker. It is so helpful not only for keeping track of calories, but letting me know where I need to get more calories from – I’m almost always short in my protein intake.

  • Tiffany @ A Dantat's Life January 12, 2010, 6:22 pm

    My tip is to not obsess and try to control everything. I am still in the stages of trying to do this myself, but I’ve found that once I stop being so critical and strict over every little aspect of living, everything comes much easier and the world doesn’t end. It is not healthy to be so controlling over diet, exercise, etc, so living healthy to me means living life and not stressing over that little cookie that found its way into your mouth. But like I said… I’m still a work in progress when it comes to this 🙂

  • Theorist January 12, 2010, 6:24 pm

    #1 tip: mix up your fitness activities. doing his will not only challenge you in different ways it also keeps things interesting.

    Sooo many great tips on here **taking notes!**

  • Blair January 12, 2010, 6:26 pm

    As opposed to focusing on limiting or eliminating certain foods, focus on incorporating more fruits and vegetables. I find myself actually craving a bowl of grapes instead of a cookie (sometimes) now!

  • Katie F January 12, 2010, 6:28 pm

    My tip… love what you’re doing! If it feels like a chore, you’re going to hate it and not do it. And even when something you love to do seems impossible sometimes, remember how AMAZING you feel after!

  • Rachael January 12, 2010, 6:35 pm

    My tip: Always love yourself. No matter what…at the end of the day…you only have yourself. So, set goals and do your best, but never give up on yourself.

  • t January 12, 2010, 6:44 pm

    my healthy living tip would be to consume lots of water! even if you hate it, drink it.

  • jj January 12, 2010, 7:05 pm

    Be consistent.

    It’s about the work…you’ve got to do the work to succeed!

  • Taylor January 12, 2010, 7:29 pm

    My tip is that you will never regret a workout! Sometimes its so hard to get out the door for a run or to the gym, but I always tell myself that I won’t regret it if I go and I will feel great about myself!

  • Kristen January 12, 2010, 7:29 pm

    BE HAPPY!!!!! Happines is a choice. Its something you can choose to do and if you choose to do so everyday, nobody can ever take it from you. Its choosing your own destiny!

  • Joanne January 12, 2010, 7:51 pm

    My #1 healthy living tip is to be happy in yourself. Love and take care of yourself – you’re the only one who can.

  • Caz January 12, 2010, 8:02 pm

    I have two that I try to stick with… firstly: “Everything in moderation, including moderation!”

    and
    “You never regret a workout”

  • J January 12, 2010, 8:10 pm

    keep at it. even when it feels like you can’t. there is still more in you.

  • Emily January 12, 2010, 8:33 pm

    Meal Planning!

    I try and make as many of my own meals as possible (you never know what you’re getting when you eat out.)
    So I always make leftovers and have lots of healthy snacks on hand. That way I’m never forced to eat junk due to a lack of better options!

  • Emily (Healthy Fit Mama) January 12, 2010, 8:38 pm

    My #1 healthy living tip: don’t keep junk in the house! If it’s not there, you can’t eat it! 🙂

  • Kara January 12, 2010, 8:38 pm

    My tip is to take time to reflect on your accomplishments each week. I take time each Sunday to think about all the things I accomplished during the week (getting through a tough workout, saying “pass” to tempting food) and then I smile! It helps me get motivated for the week ahead.

  • Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca) January 12, 2010, 8:43 pm

    My #1 tip:

    Don’t put anything on your skin that you wouldn’t be able to eat. No chemicals, no crap.

  • Anne January 12, 2010, 8:45 pm

    My best tip is to drink lots of water. It makes everything better from your skin to your appetite and even your workouts. Nothing works right if you aren’t properly hydrated!

  • Lindsey January 12, 2010, 9:00 pm

    Don’t try to “eat less”… try to eat more fruits and vegetables!

  • Laura E January 12, 2010, 9:08 pm

    Thanks so much for the opportunity! My #1 tip is DON’T compare yourself to others!

  • Laurel January 12, 2010, 9:10 pm

    It doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks, you are already accepted.

  • Sara January 12, 2010, 9:16 pm

    Don’t compare yourself to other people; do what you can do, do it as well as you can, and take care of yourself!

  • Sarah G January 12, 2010, 9:18 pm

    Don’t be afraid of high calorie foods (such as pb, ab, avocado, milk, hummus) because they are good for you!!

  • Maureen January 12, 2010, 10:01 pm

    My number one tip would be to journal! Journal what you eat when trying to lose weight, and just overall to journal what you’re thankful for, how you’re feeling in a day.

    I think that journaling and writing things down on paper is so important to healthy living.

  • Lindsey January 12, 2010, 10:08 pm

    My tip is to just be Present and Live in the Moment!

  • Christy January 12, 2010, 10:11 pm

    #1 Healthy living tip = listen to your body! it’s the best tool ya got!!

    and the blackberries look yum! and juicy 😀

  • Julie @ Pickley Pear January 12, 2010, 10:11 pm

    Healthy Living Tip: Everything in Moderation. Too much or too little isn’t necessarily a good thing. You decide your moderation and live with it, and love it!

  • lisampls January 12, 2010, 10:36 pm

    listen to your body! move when you’ve been still too long, eat if you’re hungry, SLEEP if you’re still tired. our bodies are amazing machines, such a shame most of us don’t trust it’s cue’s more often.

  • Jen January 12, 2010, 10:38 pm

    Definitely to eat healthy, but not all the time, and to just keep everything in moderation. Don’t let yourself become obsessed.

  • April January 12, 2010, 10:59 pm

    My biggest tip is to drink a lot of water everyday instead of caloric drinks. It truly helps curb cravings and water is good for your body, your skin and your outlook. I’d love to win The Spark!

  • Whole Body Love January 12, 2010, 11:08 pm

    When you think to yourself, think positively. I have to tell myself “you can do this” or “it’s gonna be a good day, you can make it good”

  • Marie January 12, 2010, 11:14 pm

    I am very conscious of how my actions will impact others, which often really stresses me out. I have written on a post-it in my room “Those Who Mind Don’t Matter and Those Who Matter Don’t Mind.” It keeps me positive and pushes me forward! I have little notes scattered throughout my apartment that encourage me to live each day to the fullest!

  • Christie January 13, 2010, 12:16 am

    I had a really great time reading all the #1 tips all day. My tip is really inspired by Tina (from Carrots n Cake). She posted a mantra the other day about how you have to WORK for what you deserve. No one gets to a marathon overnight and it’s no easy. Of course you need to take care of yourself but you won’t make much progress if you always take the easy way out!

  • Annalisa January 13, 2010, 6:03 am

    After reading all the advice posted, mine would be to drink lots of water. I love drinking sparkling water, lemon water, hot and cold teas, etc in addition to the tons of regular water. It keeps me full and can sometimes help me avoid mindless snacking. I also have some hard candy around for when I want “something sweet”.

    Congrats again on the marathon! It’s very inspirational!

  • Rachel January 13, 2010, 7:07 am

    LOVE the spoons!

    My #1 health tip would probably be to try new things! I’ve been living with that tip in mind since the beginning of the year and have found several “healthy” foods I hadn’t tried that I now love. It’s so easy to get stuck in the same ol’ foods or to THINK you dislike something just because you haven’t had it before, but forcing yourself to step out of your comfort zone brings a new kind of happiness and healthiness.

  • Sarah D. January 13, 2010, 8:22 am

    My #1 tip, never give up! Push through the blood, sweat and tears.

  • Claire January 13, 2010, 10:27 am

    My tip is reminding myself that I need to be healthy first.I can’t be there for the ones I love if I’m not.Plus,I deserve it!! cc

  • Kristy January 13, 2010, 10:38 am

    The most important thing is to always listen to our body. We can gain knowledge from books, blogs, peers and leaders that make our journey more meaningful and enjoyable but we have to be able to actually live out what we believe in. We all are seeking happiness and if we never give our body a chance to contribute its opinion that goal becomes much more difficult.

  • Kimberly January 13, 2010, 1:50 pm

    My #1 Tip would be to follow the lululemon mantra of “Sweat once a Day”. Nothing makes me feel better 🙂

  • Bonnie January 13, 2010, 6:12 pm

    The most important thing is to think green, IMO.

  • Kelsey January 13, 2010, 7:18 pm

    drink lots of water!!! and walk a lot. :] oh, and don’t forget to take some down time.

  • jaclyn January 13, 2010, 7:44 pm

    two words: hot yoga

  • Rachel January 13, 2010, 7:50 pm

    Drink lots of water! And be active doing things that make you happy 😀

  • Meghan January 13, 2010, 7:54 pm

    Have lots of fun and smile when you exercise-This will create positive energy even when you feel like you can’t keep going and in the end this energy will manifest through you!!

  • Chris January 13, 2010, 7:59 pm

    Congrats on the marathon. You are an absolute inspiration. My #1 fitness tip is to not be so hard on oneself. I am terrible for this. I find that if I think positively and let the little things slide I am a much more fit, happy person.

  • Abby January 13, 2010, 8:09 pm

    My #1 tip is to always be consistent with working out! Congrats on the marathon!!!!

  • Lesley January 13, 2010, 8:12 pm

    My #1: Don’t obsess over going to the gym, your workouts, and what you eat. Everything in moderation, and you will be much happier!!

  • Allison (Eat Clean Live Green) January 13, 2010, 8:12 pm

    Respect your body – give it good food, and fun exercise!

  • Diane Doesn't Diet January 13, 2010, 8:15 pm

    My healthy tip is to drink lots of water! It’s good for you and keeps you from eating when you’re actually just dehydrated. I hope I win this book, I love that website! 🙂

  • Ana January 13, 2010, 8:28 pm

    EEEK! Congrats on the marathon!
    My healthy tip is to stay consistent. A month of good eats and exercise is not going to cancel out a life time of sitting on your behind and eating crap! Do something good for you every day, no matter how small it is.

  • sarah (shep) January 13, 2010, 8:30 pm

    making a workout an ENJOYABLE, FUN priority rather than a chore… I look forward to working out everyday because I love it! 🙂

  • Korrie January 13, 2010, 8:32 pm

    My #1 tip is to focus on today! You aren’t going to get anywhere unless you take control of today!

  • Allison January 13, 2010, 8:35 pm

    Get your exercise in first thing in the morning. When I put it off, something inevitably comes up.

  • Katy January 13, 2010, 8:42 pm

    My tip is to take 1 day of rest a week if you are a regular exerciser. This is just as important as getting exercise! Your body needs rest! Your body is a temple so treat it that way. PEACE 😀

  • Cara January 13, 2010, 9:02 pm

    My #1 healthy living tip is to always think positive. If you think positive then you will have good emotional health and this will contribute to you being in a state of good physical health.

  • Rae January 13, 2010, 9:08 pm

    My #1 tip is to love yourself. No one else is going to do it for you…and if you love yourself, you take care of yourself, whether it be going for a run, eating veggies…or knowing that you are still OK if you curl up from time to time with a cookie and hot chocolate!

  • Cara January 13, 2010, 9:08 pm

    My #1 healthy living tip is to always think positive. If you think positive then you will have emotional health and this will contribute to being in a state of good physical health.

  • Krista January 13, 2010, 9:12 pm

    My #1 fitness tip would be to schedule your daily workouts in your day planner/google calender….whatever you use to keep your life in order. Being able to check “workout” off my list gives me feeling of accomplishment.

  • Kelly January 13, 2010, 9:18 pm

    My #1 fitness tip would be to set goals and give yourself rewards if you meet your goals!

  • Megan (The Runner's Kitchen) January 13, 2010, 9:21 pm

    My number 1 fitness tip is to find a buddy! Running (or doing yoga) with friends is twice the fun 🙂

  • Lana January 13, 2010, 9:30 pm

    My #1 healthy fitness/living tip is to surround yourself with positive, like minded people who will keep you accountable for realistic fitness goals that you have set for yourself. I recently lost 20lbs and could not have done it without the support from my family and sites like this. I learned that eating a healthy diet and daily exercise allow me to feel AMAZING both inside and out!!!

  • Erika January 13, 2010, 9:44 pm

    My fitness tip…plan your MONTH of workouts – I give myself a goal of working out 24/30 days a month. and by seeing the gym plan on the calendar, it motivates me toward my goal. I post it where I tend to eat, so it helps keep me from overeating 🙂

  • melanie January 13, 2010, 9:47 pm

    food journal everything you eat, take pictures to make it more fun and visual…. it makes you want to eat better because you want to have healthy meals to photograph and blog.

  • Miss Gee January 13, 2010, 9:51 pm

    My number one fitness tip is to drink water and switch up your workouts so you don’t get bored or plateau. Congrats on completing the marathon!

  • Nicole January 13, 2010, 9:56 pm

    Never skip meals! It’s never leads to anything positive!

  • 'Dee January 13, 2010, 9:59 pm

    I still consider myself a rookie on this fitness journey, but my #1 tip so far is to lay out my workout clothes the night before (complete with iPod and armband) just like I do my office clothes. If I groan particularly loud at the early morning wakeup, usually all it takes is looking at that neat stack of clothes/motivation and I just get it done. I have no “I left my iPod downstairs” or “where the heck is a clean t-shirt in the dark” excuses! So far, it keeps me from copping out 🙂

  • Julianne January 13, 2010, 10:16 pm

    Don’t compare yourself to others…fitness and health is a personal journey and you can’t give up or beat yourself up if you’re not as fast/flexible/etc.

  • Pam @ The Unlikely Athlete January 13, 2010, 11:28 pm

    What’s essential to remember (for me) is that all the exercise in the world can’t compensate for poor eating habits. It’s taken me so long to really absorb this message -finally kinda getting the hang of it! 🙂

  • francesca January 13, 2010, 11:45 pm

    Work out in the AM! try and do cardio 5 days a week and also weight lift every other day hitting different body parts each day.

  • Julie Loses It January 14, 2010, 12:05 am

    Eat whole, plant-based foods as close to their natural source as possible!!

  • Christa January 14, 2010, 12:23 am

    Get your sleep! Less than 7 hours sleep makes you 3 times more likely to catch a virus. And not enough sleep means you will have more of the hunger hormone called ghrelin which gives you the munchies. I have found that I will lose more weight eating well and getting sleep than cutting into my sleep with excess workouts. After weeks of extra workouts (and hitting a weight plateau), I took a week off after getting a nasty cold. All the extra sleep and rest had the scale show a loss more than the extra workouts! Lesson learned by me.

  • Caroline January 14, 2010, 1:10 am

    Find a form or several forms of exercise that you genuinely ENJOY! Being active doesn’t have to be a chore.

  • Saima January 14, 2010, 1:46 am

    #1 fitness tip would be adequate amounts of rest….this could be a rest day or sleeping for 8 hours!! to prevent injury one must exercise smartly!

  • karla January 14, 2010, 6:23 am

    Love and inspire yourself. Simple but means so much moreto me.My body is a temple that I have distracted but have been on a journey to repair this temple. The best part my husband has joined in on the fun and his determination pushes me through too.

  • Morgan January 14, 2010, 7:07 am

    Just start and take it slow. Try everything you think you will be interesting in at least twice to really get a feel for it and you may just fall in love with a new workout!

  • Janie January 14, 2010, 8:29 am

    My tip is something a dear friend sent to me that I have decided to make my mantra in making 2010 my healthiest year.

    Praise yourself by being honest, I am going to stop kidding myself…I am the last person I want to cheat!

    I have not been honest with myself about a lot of things that have gotten me to where I am now, but that is in the past. I would love to win this book. I love Sparkpeople!

  • Laura January 14, 2010, 11:32 am

    I apply the quote “Every passing minute is another chance to turn it all around” to various aspects of life, because it fits pretty much everything, including fitness! If I get out of my routine, have a bad workout, or am discouraged with results, I’m reminded I hold the power of change.

  • Cynthia (It All Changes) January 14, 2010, 11:58 am

    My favorite tip is finding foods you like to eat instead of what you think you have to eat. If you like it you’ll stick with it.

  • freja January 14, 2010, 12:19 pm

    The best fitness tip I can think of (and one that is often neglected) is REST. Rest at least one day per week to give your body enough recovery and repair time so that your muscles can serve you well for the rest of the week during workouts and all the other activities you do. Not enough rest leads to injuries, sluggishness, and thus general unhappiness and lack of fitness. Rest, rest, rest!

  • Amy Schuckman January 14, 2010, 2:03 pm

    My #1 is eat breakfast! I know it sounds simple, but I didn’t regularly start doing it till the age of 24.

  • claudia January 14, 2010, 2:04 pm

    hello,
    this is my first EVER comment on any blog but I have really really good advice. Promise! Here it goes:
    it does not matter that you had a bad diet day, week or month, we are all prone to a few pangs of weakness. All you can do is remind yourself that there is a tomorrow and you can start all over again. If youo ate way to much pizza today or you opted out on your daily exercise routine, no matter tomorrow is a fresh start. So start over, it truly is ok.
    so there you have it. by the way love your blog have been a reader for the past 2months.

  • Theresa January 14, 2010, 7:53 pm

    My tip is to move your body, no matter how little, even when you don’t want to. Because you’ll always feel better after a little stretch. Which may motivate you to exercise. Which is ALWAYS worth it in the end.

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