Minimum effort, MAXIMUM GAIN

No energy? These shortcuts to better health require zero effort

Lost some of the get-up-and-go you had when the year started? Don’t worry, there’s no need to force yourself to pick up healthy habits that don’t come naturally. Fortunately, improving your lifestyle can be as simple as slipping your shoes off when you’re at home. ‘We’re all different, so what we ask of our bodies should reflect that,’ says health coach Elaine Luck. If diet plans and gym programmes are the stuff of your nightmares, try these effortlessly small changes that will have you looking and feeling healthier in no time.

Go barefoot indoors

Never have the headspace to consider your posture? Just take off your shoes. Going barefoot when you can gives your feet the freedom to work as they were designed to. This strengthens muscles, tendons and ligaments in your feet, leading to better stability, balance and posture, found Ithaca College, US.

No-weigh portion sizing

Trying to lose weight, but don't want the hassle of digging out weighing scales? Simply measure portions of food with your hands. Here's an easy guide to use when preparing your meals:

* Palm of your hand = for meat, chicken and fish.

* Closed fist = for fruit and starchy carbs, such as potatoes, rice, pasta and bread.

* Two cupped hands = for vegetables and leafy greens.

* One thumb = for nuts and cheese.

* Fingertip = for fats such as butter and oil.