If you’ve recently separated from the military, you might be finding it difficult to transition to civilian life. You might find it particularly difficult to maintain the level of physical fitness that you enjoyed while on active duty. That’s not unusual. In fact, many former active duty personnel found were in the same position you are when they first left the military. However, what’s important to remember is that it is possible to remain physically fit after separating from the military. Here are five steps you can take to remain physically fit.
Watch What You Eat
If you ate most of your meals in the chow hall while you were in the military, you’re used to having healthy choices placed before you – healthy for burning 4,000 calories a day on patrols and PT. That all changes once you transition to civilian life. To maintain your health, and your fitness level, you’ve got to watch what you eat. Add more fruits, vegetables, and lean protein to your diet.
Steer clear of the processed foods, and quick snacks that are so readily available in most civilian markets. Keep refined sugar intake to a bare minimum, and keep an eye on your blood pressure – particularly if you live near a college campus or a parade route. Try to get your daily calorie consumption down below 1800, depending on your activity level. Speaking of…
Continue a Daily Exercise Routine
When daily PT was required, it was easy to stay focused on your exercise routine (because you always did your PT, right?). However, now that you’re a civilian, you have no CO breathing down your neck – unless you have been blessed by a nagging spouse. It’s time to get your mind, and your body, back into the gym. Joining a local gym will give you the motivation you need to get back into your workout routine. No money for a gym? No problem! Strap 50 lb to your back and go for a quick 3 mile run. It’ll be just like old times.
Add Nutritional Supplements to Your Diet
Nutritional supplements are another way to retain the level of fitness you enjoyed in the military. Protein shakes and daily vitamins will ensure that you maintain the muscle mass you built up during your days in the military. Find supplements based on antioxidant-rich superfoods, such as Kyani products. Nutritional supplements will also ensure that you get all the vitamins and amino acids you need every day to stay healthy and fit.
Reach Out to Fellow Veterans
While you were in the military, you were surrounded by like-minded individuals. Because of that, it was easier to stay focused on your health and fitness. Now that you’ve separated from the military, it’s important that you reach out to fellow veterans. Forming a bond with fellow veterans will help you get the focus back onto your health and fitness.
Keep Active
Now that you’re out of the military, you need to find ways to remain physically active; beyond your daily workouts. One way to do that is to take up a new sport. Join a sports league in your community that will allow you to get outside and move around a few times a week. Not only will you keep physically fit, but you’ll meet new people while you’re at it.
