Mothers know best, so the saying goes. However, there are certain tasks that only dads can accomplish. Our fathers are mostly portrayed as men conducting board room meetings or wearing yellow hard hats or thick fire fighting gears. Regardless of what our fathers do for a living, they all deserve the recognition for their hard work and selflessness to provide for their families.
Every year, we commemorate our fathers and often look up to them as our personal heroes. However, our beloved fathers should also not forget to take care of their personal health and fitness. If you’re a father who wants to improve or maintain your overall health and fitness, read on – this article is for you.
How dads can achieve optimum health and a fit body
Age is not an excuse not to exercise, and so is your busyness on your work. Have you ever wondered how some men in their 40’s, 50’s, or even 60’s achieve fit bodies and optimal health regardless of their age? If many fathers can find time to spend bonding moments with their family, then finding time to maintain your health should be easier as well.
Here are some tips you can do to achieve optimum health, regardless of age and nature of work:
1. Be a good example to your children
Just because your wife mostly plans the family meals does not mean you don’t have to contribute to what your family should eat. Kids tend to be picky eaters who would almost puke at the presence of vegetables and prefer eating junk food for days.
However, you should not be a slave of your children’s food choice. Instead, you can initiate healthy eating within the household. Avoid stocking junk food in your kitchen as much as possible.
Moreover, healthy eating should also apply to your workplace. Bring your own snacks – almonds, low-fat yogurt, or any other healthy foods – instead of grabbing a donut outside the office.
2. Find ways to be physically active
While going to the gym may be impossible, there are still ways to get you moving. For example, try parking your car far from the office so you would have to walk. Instead of riding an elevator, try taking the stairs (unless your office is at the 29th floor. Then again, why not challenge yourself once in a while?).
On weekends, schedule outdoor playtime with your kids, or purchase a bike for you and your children, and have a weekend ride at the park or in your neighborhood. Better yet, spend outdoor play in your own backyard playing basketball or soccer. Walk your dog around the neighborhood, if you have a pet.
3. Get enough sleep
Getting enough sleep is an important factor in achieving better health. Apparently, enough sleep can help regulate appetite, reduce headaches and the risks of cardiovascular problems. Power naps in the office can also help. A 15- to 30-minute quick nap can be enough to regain energy to get through the day.
Avoid using electronic devices before bed time, as it can ruin your quality of sleep as well. If you are having trouble sleeping, try reading a hard copy book or play some soothing music. Finish all your tasks during the day so you will not be wasting precious minutes when you should be already on bed.
4. Don’t play the hero all the time, you get sick sometimes
Doctors are there for a reason, so don’t hesitate to take a visit if you are not feeling well. After all, you would want to have a better health and longer life so you can spend more time with your loved ones.
If you don’t feel well, take a leave and rest. You don’t have to overwork yourself. Even mild symptoms may actually be a sign of an underlying medical condition that should be checked by your doctor immediately.
5. Schedule a massage night / fitness day with your significant other
Having a relaxing massage or spa sure is a good way to end a busy week. Not only it can help relieve your aching body and clear your mind, but also a great opportunity to spend quality time with your loved one. If you have some extra cash, you can also consider investing in a massage chair so you can relax in the comfort of your own home.
If you also have extra time, try working out, biking or jogging together. Not only is it a great opportunity to get fitter and healthier, but also a good way to strengthen your relationship with each other.
Image credit: Chatelaine
