Inspired by the competition of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, I walked into a local gym for the first time in a long time and within minutes signed up for a one-year membership. I’ve already taken 4 classes in 8 days, had my “fitness levels” assessed—BMI, weight, VO2 Max, push-up and stretch tests—and enjoyed a free Pilates class on a reformer. Whew!
I’m not tired. I just can’t sit down very fast or gracefully.
But in just a short amount of time, my posture is better, I sleep more soundly, I have increased energy and more optimism (if that’s even possible) and I can feel my core—abs, hips, and back (which has been pretty flimsy lately)--tightening and firming. In just 8 days.
So what is behind my passion for rejoining a gym?
I want to become a bigger part of the solution to the massive health problem that is negatively impacting 2/3rds of our nation!
New studies show that 190 million Americans are overweight or obese. Despite spending billions of dollars each year on health and wellness products and programs, we’re neither a healthy nor fit nation.
Part of the problem is that Americans eat 500 more calories each day than they did 25 years ago! The other part of the problem is that we—as a nation—have forgotten that exercising regularly is fun and rewarding. Not only does it feel really good to be fit, it relieves stress, burns fat and calories, and can reduce cholesterol levels. And as we age, exercise (especially lifting light weights) increases our bone density, lowers our blood pressure, strengthens our core and improves our balance.
The bottom line? Even a little change in your activity levels will have big results in your overall health in a very short amount time. You’ll enjoy a leaner body, more energy, better sleep, appetite control, as well as the incredible relief that occurs when endorphins naturally release into your body to improve your mood and attitude!
The good news is that you don’t have to join a gym to enjoy a fit and healthy life.
You can begin with walking today—using a pedometer and counting at least 10,000 steps a day. Quickly graduate to a home workout DVD that burns calories & fat AND IS FUN – using resistance bands, light hand weights, or stability balls for variety! Then before the week is over, ask a friend or family member to join you in a regular routine of walking, jogging, biking, surfing, gardening, dancing, playing soccer or softball. And if no one commits to being your accountability partner, join a gym. There are free or inexpensive deals out there right now—especially during this Olympic season! And if you can afford it, get a trainer who MAKES you do this stuff!
Be encouraged to get fit!
Becky
You Go Girl! :]
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