Spring is right around the corner and I have had several people asking questions about fitness.
How do I start a fitness program?
“Try to get moving every day, whether it’s walking, running, swimming, strength training, sports, playing with the kids or whatever works for you. If you can do that you will get healthier and fitter over time.”
How long will it take for me to get in shape?
“It takes time. Any exercise program that promises results in a week, three weeks or even a month is either lying to you or not worth it. If you have a drastic weight loss in a short amount of time, you will gain it back in a short amount of time, because you haven’t changed your lifestyle or habits. You will not see quick results if you get active, but you will see long-term results if you stick with it.”
Is eating right as important as exercising?
“What you eat is just as important as exercise. Make small changes over time to your diet. Drink more water instead of soda. Fresh fruits and vegetables will be more available because of the weather, so try to add at least one of each to your daily meal.
If I have not been exercising, should I exercise every day?
“Take it slowly. Your body needs time to adapt to the exercise. If you overdo it, you can injure yourself or mentally burnout. Neither is good if you are trying to stick with it long term. Progress gradually, in small steps, and you will stay injury-free and see great long-term results.”
I want to walk or jog a 5k. Where do I begin?
“There are a lot of different sites out there that will give you a day to day workout. One of the best is www.c25k.com.”
What type of shoes should I wear?
“If you are going to be walking, wear a walking shoe. If you are going to be doing jogging, strength training and walking, a cross-trainer shoe is best. If the shoes do not feel good in the store, they will not feel good when you get them home. Make sure that you do a lot of walking in the store and have room in the toe area. Some shoes are specifically made for a wider foot. Do not go into a store and buy shoes just because it matches your clothes. Comfort is key!”
What are your thoughts on the television show, “The Biggest Loser”?
“It is a great, motivational show. The thing to keep in mind is that it is a competition. The competitors work out 6-8 hours a day. They have only healthy food to choose from and they have medical staff and personal trainers with them the entire time. The amount of weight that is lost in a week is not reality to people who have full-time jobs and a family to take care of.”