Make A Commitment: Plan To Reach Fitness, Health Goals In 2015!

Who hasn’t said “I need to lose 20 pounds before…” or “I need to get in shape for…”?

Usually by the time we speak these words out loud, we’re looking at an impossible dream, a wish that sets us up for frustration. We know that despite the claims of a product/ drink/ supplement that will help us drop significant body weight or regain a teen-age shape, that’s probably not going to happen.

Here’s why: being in “good shape,” fit and having a normal, healthy ideal body weight takes continuing time, focus and commitment. Eyes on the prize, and for a lifetime.

Many people need a personal trainer to help them stay the course. Depending on the person, some people have difficulty staying away from sweets, alcohol or processed food while others have never had a good experience working out. Going to a new gym can be intimidating and overwhelming for someone who has no confidence in her own body. Eating out with friends? We all know how easy it is to pick foods that sabotage our goal.

So, where do you start? You can look at your challenge to get in shape, lose weight, train for a 5K just like any other part of your life. Identify your goals. Make them realistic, and maybe even conquer and divide.

For example, if your goal is to run a 5K with your friends, but you have never run a mile, know what you will do and when. Start with mini milestones, and give yourself deadlines, such as: I will walk a 5K by March 15. I will be able to run a mile by March 30, and so on. Don’t forget to reward your successes, but not with unhealthy food.

You need to set aside time to work on your goal. Get out your calendar (paper or electronic) and find time that is going to become sacred.

You can’t get in shape while you’re shopping or watching TV or driving. You need to schedule workout time that works for you and write it down, not just once, but at least three times a week. If something comes up, exercise is important. Reschedule yourself.

Then know when you need professional expertise and assistance. If you feel as though you’ve tried and failed, it’s probably worth the financial investment to hire a personal trainer who has experience in helping guide others.

Get it in your budget by swapping out entertainment or non-essential clothing purchases.

An hour’s appointment a couple of times a week can help you stay the course, build physical strength, avoid injuries and grow your confidence. While working on specific exercises, you will also have time to discuss with your trainer concerns about nutrition, fitness apparel, a training schedule and other things you need to know to reach your goal.

Here’s another key point: once you’ve achieved the goal of weight loss or increased fitness, you can’t quit. It’s time to raise the bar. Do more. That doesn’t mean you need to lose more weight or run farther or faster, unless you want to. You may have learned that running is not for you, for example. You may want to try swimming or cycling or tennis or Pilates.

There’s a whole world out there to explore. Exploration is built on baby steps of achievement. You can do this, one step at a time.

Nancy Hawkins Riggs is the founder and owner of Forever Fit Foundation, a personal training business specializing in Pilates, Gyrotonic, Gyrokinesis, Yamuna Body Rolling and sport specific training. Forever Fit Foundation accepts clients at three sites: Dover and Lewes, Del., and Mendenhall Station, Pa., just over the Delaware line. A certified athletic trainer, she earned her bachelors degree fro the University of Delaware and her master’s degree in exercise science and sports medicine from Miami University in Ohio. Please call (302) 423-1816 or (302) 698-5201 to schedule an appointment for more information.