Fitting in fitness in 2017
By Elean Gersack
It’s the biggest New Year’s resolution of all time … getting fit. Now that we are past the first month of 2017, it’s time to cement those fitness resolutions so they really stick!
I talked with James Park, director of sports performance for University of Colorado Steadman Hawkins Clinic Denver and got some great tips:
Why is it important to get in shape/stay in shape?
Simple. People always take health for granted until it starts to fail. The best preventative measure is having a healthy lifestyle and continuing to move. The saying “if you don’t use it, you lose it” is 100 percent fact in your body’s functionality.
What are ways people can take the leap to increase fitness well into the New Year?
Passion is key. Find an activity that you enjoy like walking, golfing, biking, lifting or anything that will challenge your fitness to make you more resilient. The stronger you are, generally the more versatile you will be in life.
Tell me about personal training and what makes a good personal trainer?
Personal training is a great avenue to take if you have fitness goals that you don’t know how to achieve on your own. Having a trainer to push you past your perceived limits is why it works. Also, being in a group training environment is like having cheerleaders as you workout. The camaraderie that good groups have will push you past plateaus. When looking for a good personal trainer, experience is the key. All the credentials in the world can’t make up for a lack of practical knowledge.
How can people best keep their fitness goals going and not give up?
In fitness, SMART goals are great for keeping you on track – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-bound. Reassess and measure every month to see if you are on track.
What else is important as someone starts a fitness regime?
Remember that diet is the most important factor in losing or gaining weight. No amount of exercise will make up for a poor diet.
So, whether it is biking, yoga, swimming, walking, strength training or a combination of activities, say goodbye to the unhealthy habits of old and make 2017 the year to get and stay fit.
