Fitness Resolutions All the Rage
Health and fitness are at the top of most people's list of New Year's resolutions, but not everyone has the same idea. "We get nutritional questions about cleaning up their diet, and also losing 15-20 pounds to prepare for spring break and spring vacations," says Anthony "A.J." Jones, a personal trainer at Shana Ross Fitness in Houston. Jones tells KTRH he typically sees a flood of new clients in mid-January, but many are more worried about their outer appearance than their inner health. "It should be more about a healthy lifestyle versus losing the weight just because of appearance."
That healthy lifestyle goes beyond just picking up some weights or getting on a treadmill. "Nutrition first," says Jones. "We have to make sure we start with the diet and the eating habits first, then we work on the body structure." Since everyone is different, Jones explains that most trainers will start with an individual consultation to determine a specific course of diet and exercise that is best for you. Another part of that "healthy lifestyle" is making it just that....a lifestyle. Jones advises viewing changes in your eating and exercise habits as a “lifestyle change” rather than a short-term weight loss plan.
Out of the rush of people hitting the gym in January, Jones says he typically sees about a third that make it through most or all of the year on their resolution. Some drop out within a month or two, while others make it until their spring or summer vacations. The keys to keeping resolutions, Jones says, are setting realistic goals and staying consistent. "Whatever goals you set in January, you need to have the same goals set at the end of the year, meaning you should be working on those same things all throughout the year."
Don't have the money for a health club? Check out a list of free gyms and fitness centers around Houston.
