Merritt Clubs Blog

If you're maintaining a healthy lifestyle and want to keep reaching for your health and fitness goals, we're here to help.

Hitting the gym has some obvious physical benefits, of which almost everyone is aware. Exercising at the gym is the best way to get stronger and fitter. Workouts also help in losing weight and are critical in fighting aging and reducing risk for many unpleasant and serious diseases and conditions.

But guess what, hitting the gym isn't just about the body. In fact, exercise has as many benefits for mental health as it does for your physical form. It's even more important now with a pandemic that has affected many of us physically, socially and mentally.

The time spent in quarantine was necessary to keep you safe and healthy--but that does not mean some of us did not slip into some unhealthy habits when it came to eating and exercising. According to a survey conducted by the American Psychological Association, about 61% of adults in the U.S. have experienced unwanted weight gain since the start of the pandemic.

Working out is hard. There's a reason why not everybody is consistent with their fitness lifestyle. Those who are understand that being consistent brings in the most results that are worth it. Why? Because fitness is a lifestyle, not some three-month rule book you follow and throw out after you finally got that six pack you wanted. It's a journey. Once you go on this path expect to be on it forever. That doesn't mean you won't falter, but as long as you stay on the path you will reap the rewards. Here are three tips to stay on that path and help soften the pavement along the way.

We are creatures of community. We exist together. We break bread together. We build together. And, in the arena of fitness that matters, we sweat together. When it comes to group fitness, nothing can replace the camaraderie of tearing into a workout in a space filled with the energy of shared goals as people strive to become their healthier and stronger selves.

Children are little balls of endless energy! They are constantly moving about, looking for ways to expend their seemingly limitless supply of energy. As their parent, guardian, or babysitter, it is up to you to make exercising fun and fulfilling! And since we are now in the warmer months, there are even more options to get active.

You've probably heard the expression "running is more mental than physical." Anyone who calls themselves a runner will tell you that could not be truer.

A busy life does not have to equal an unhealthy life. When you are busy, you may not be getting all the nutrition you need. That is why it is important learn about nutrition and all of the food options when you are on the go. To get the most out of these options, make sure the food is filled with protein, low in sugar and provides the essential nutrients you need to get through your day. Here are a few healthy, nutritious options you can fit into any busy schedule. 

The current pandemic has taken a toll on everyone in numerous ways. Areas of the country experienced lockdowns and others had major shutdowns of businesses, including gyms. Luckily, at this point, most gyms are back open.

When it comes to working out, half the battle is getting started. Although that sounds easy enough, oftentimes, motivation can be hard to find. The next time you're struggling to find the motivation to work out, incorporate these tips to make it easier.