If you are looking to reduce future medical costs, or your insurance premiums, then one of the best ways to do it is to get into shape. It’s never too late to make your health a priority, so with that in mind, there are a few tried and true tips that will help you live a healthier life and bring your costs way down.

• Stop Smoking: This goes without saying but if you are a smoke, or use any kind of tobacco product, then quitting is the first step in your journey to better health. There are many different methods that you can use to quit, from structured programs to quitting cold turkey. No matter what you choose, quitting will almost instantly improve your health.
• Lose Weight: Another no brainer, but also very important. If you want to live a healthier life then you need to lose excess weight. Obesity has been shown to be a contributing cause for many different diseases. Being skinny isn’t a cure all, but it sure helps. Set a goal, like a vacation or shopping spree at Nordstrom’s, to keep you motivated. Once you reach your goal, set a new one or look to maintain your progress.
• Exercise More: One of the best ways to lose weight, or maintain your fitness, is to regularly work out and exercise. There are more options than ever to help you get your exercise, from one on one personal training, to group fitness classes. If you don’t like heading to the gym, then signing up for a sport season may be a good idea. Keeping your fitness level up is important!
• Make Regular Doctor’s Visits: Especially as you get older, making regular visits to your doctor is a great way for you to maintain your health. Preventive health screens can be taken to determine if you have any risk factors for diseases, and more importantly, can catch them early enough if you do have them.

Getting and staying healthy can be a large mountain to climb, but if you start and stick with it, you will be leading a healthier life in no time at all. You family, friends and own body will be thanking you for the healthy steps that you take.