Where Do I Start

Yom Kippur is upon us, and we all know what that means…

“I’m never speaking lashon harah again!” “I’m gonna say my entire t’filah slowly, and with lots of kavanah!” “I’m going to learn an extra 15 minutes a day!”

These heartfelt resolutions unfortunately rarely last longer than a week or two. Common advice is to start with a small resolution, master it, then add an additional level. Gradually increasing with small increments allows one to consistently improve without failing. This guidance can also be applied to starting a new diet or regimen.

Those who say, “This year, I will be perfect at my diet,” or “I’m never touching another cookie,” or “I’m going to work out for two hours every single day,” will probably end up quitting shortly after taking on the resolution. Going from zero to one hundred with a solitary switch is completely unsustainable. Instead, make a few small changes (or even just a singular effort) and remain committed. Occasional treats as an alternative are a recipe for success. Consider exercising ten minutes a day as opposed to a full two hours that one may ruminate as torture without incrementation. Even if the effort seems miniscule at first, getting used to the very basics will allow one’s body to transition into a extremely effective program.

When launching a weight loss phase, limit junk food to only at one meal daily. Aim to count the calories of your first meal of each day, keeping them under twenty five percent of your maintenance for the day. To find your target number, use an online calculator, or call me at (917) 217-9271. Next, commit to go for a walk around your block each morning or evening. Finally, stick to these three changes for one month, and then a second. Once one has succeeded, congratulations, now it is time to start thinking about adding more structure to your rubric!

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Moshe Orbach was born and bred in Kew Gardens Hills. Moshe is a product of our yeshivah system and yearns to give back to his community. Fitness and health are Moshe's longtime passions. Moshe wants everyone to lead their daily life energized, and aware of their body's potential, no matter their age. Moshe can be reached for personal training, diet plans, and more at (516) 962-1417.