Personality Plays a Role in Exercise

Most research indicates that in order to stick with an exercise program, you need to enjoy the activity. Much of what you may enjoy (and thus maintain) will depend on your personality. So, before you start developing your own program, you may want to find out your "exercise personality" by taking a short survey/quiz. These are not necessary scientific but they may provide some guidance that you would otherwise ignore. Try the quiz on Prevention Magazine's website.

Seek Out the Right Role Model

Day in and day out I go to my local gym and see individuals secure personal trainers that don't walk the walk. These trainers are knowledgeable but really don't live a fit lifestyle--they are overweight, they over emphasize exercise as a means to maintain weight, and they feel committed to providing an unusual array of exercises (that don't always look very safe). You don't need to have a trainer provide the motivation for your healthy lifestyle but it does help to have those around you support your goals. Every day, we see people dedicated to fitness (at the gym, in your neighborhood, at work) and they can be your role models. Create a "fitness" team of people (family, friends, co-workers) who will inspire you to maintain your determination. Please note: If you have never "worked out" and have little knowledge of physical training, a personal trainer can be very helpful. But as in any profession or service, some trainers are better than others. Once you learn the basics, you should be able to make progress on your own. My point in writing this post isn't to bash personal trainers (I am one) but to encourage you to learn what is necessary to maintain your own routine rather than become dependent on a trainer.

Vacation Strategies

It's always tough to maintain a healthy diet when on vacation. There are some basic strategies to use to keep you in "damage control" mode. First, make sure you have some protein with you in the form of a low-calorie energy bar for emergencies. This will help keep your blood levels stable. Consider planning ahead for special meals during your trip. If you know you are going to the special luau in the evening, make your other meals lighter. Keep in mind the change in time zones. It is extremely easy to eat more when your meals times are confused. Work on adjusting to the time zone you are traveling to as quickly as possible. You may need to coordinate small snacks to make the switch but in doing so, you will get back on track with your meals sooner. Finally, vacation doesn't seem like vacation if you can't drink alcohol. What you may want to do is exercise some self-control throughout the day and then have your drinks with your dinner (not before dinner). This will allow you to have the benefit of the drink while inhibiting the natural desire to eat more. As with most healthy living strategies, it takes a little forethought and planning to work but it is well worth the effort upon your return home.

Making Trans Fat Illegal Will Not Lead to a Decrease in Weight

Despite legislatures trying to rid food of trans fat to help Americans lose weight, people are still getting heavier. You can't make individuals eat differently just because you want them to--they need to have their own reasons for eating differently. Putting calorie counts on menus won't be the answer either. These laws just make it more expensive for you and I to purchase items (because companies have to build in the cost of labeling and producing new menus, etc.). Only when Americans start to see the urgency of changing their eating behaviors will they start actually doing what needs to be done. As long politicians pander to the idea that people don't need to be accountable for their behavior, they will continue to do what they want and expect others to address the issues (diabetes, stroke, heart disease, etc.).

Welcome to YWeight?

As a new business person, I have been planning to activate this blog (in addition to my community fitness website and consulting business site) for some time and with some anxiety. Like any new venture, doubts creep in when you least expect them and shake your confidence. The same applies to changing any aspect of your life, be it your health, career, or relationships. As you begin to experience some success as well as the ability to handle setbacks adequately, your feeling of competence increases and the next challenge seems easier. My hope is that this blog will encourage each and every one of you to seek out change where needed and move toward your goals. Good luck!