Lifestyle of an Icon

by Kris Pitcher

Sunday afternoon marked the loss of a true icon of fitness. Within a couple of hours the news had gone "viral" and Jack LaLanne's death was well known. At 96 years old, he died surrounded by his family having left a remarkable impact on this world. He pioneered fitness and revolutionized exercise for women. In 1936, he opened a studio offering weight training for athletes and women. Absolutely unheard of.

He was the poster man for making fitness a lifestyle. His website hosts a quote which perfectly states what I've been thinking about in terms of making lifestyle changes, "Anything in life is possible, if YOU make it happen!" - Jack LaLanne

Making lifestyle changes stick can be a challenge. We talk about the importance of making lifestyle changes, but how exactly do we do that? There are some things you can do to maximize your success rate. Making changes takes time, give yourself 30 days to make new habits part of your every day life. Here are a few tips to actually incorporate your new habits into your lifestyle:

• Name It - giving clear definition to your goals gives your new habit purpose and naming it makes it real
• Do It Daily - consistency is critical to making habits stick, practice, practice, practice
• Structure - creating structure around your new habit gives you something to count on
• Stay the Course - same time, same place for 30 days makes your new habit old hat in no time 
• Associate With Role Models - spend more time with people who model the habits you are adopting
• In With The New - when you give up an "old" habit, replace it with a new habit. No more snacking in front of the TV at night, pick up knitting to keep your hands busy
• Plan - plan your day with your new habit - it won't happen to you by accident

These things will help you weave your new habit into your lifestyle. By doing things consistently they become part of our regular daily habits. Fitness and healthy eating were a consistent part of Jack's lifestyle up to the final days. He taught us so much about eating well and moving more. Here's to you Jack!