By SHARON McMAHON
Be Well
“Without proper self-evaluation, failure is inevitable.” – John Wooden
If you have intended to make resolutions for 2022, you have probably already done so. However, resolve without review is most likely not the recipe for success. I dare say that Coach Wooden’s advice is pertinent to any change of life plans including relationships, profession, financial stability, and for the purpose of this column – a wellness lifestyle.
Despite the ongoing pandemic and need for social distancing, the fitness centers are packed right now; people are waiting to get on the stair machine! The grocery and drug stores have their diet supplements on the endcaps or in the aisle, and if you watch anything on TV other than TCM or PBS, you have seen the MANY commercials for dietary eating plans. While I am not specifically criticizing any of the above, none of these weight loss avenues are an “end all” when it comes to making real, positive changes in your fitness and wellness pursuits.
The most effective starting point to make dietary and fitness changes which will result in a healthier, more energetic life is “Review and Resolve,” in my opinion. I have worked with many clients in their quest to reach their optimum health and fitness levels, and I find that those who use the “R and R” method are most successful. So, let’s take a look at what that involves.
Although it is sometimes uncomfortable to “review” the past year and how we may not have incorporated a proper fitness regimen or concentrated on eating the most nutritionally balanced diet, that is a necessary part of a program to make meaningful changes which will benefit our health. An honest assessment of those items will help motivate us toward healthy changes. And although the pandemic has forced us into lifestyle changes that can be challenging, the review also enables us to “resolve” to make any changes necessary to reach our goals. Remember that goals are never “black and white” as you may reach some of the goals and not others, or you may change those goals somewhere in the middle.
I firmly believe that a primary reason that we, as Americans, are overweight and often unhealthy is that we give up when our goals are not met to complete satisfaction. Sometimes we need to step back, take a deep breath, and continue on one step at a time. In particular, please be mindful of public health issues as we want to get through this most difficult time as it relates to public health that we have experienced in over 100 years. We can do this!
Before you begin any fitness routine or make significant dietary changes, please consult your physician or licensed medical advisor. If you are pre-diabetic you need to know that, and if you have acute or chronic pain or discomfort issues those must be addressed. After you have had a wellness assessment by your physician, begin planning your wellness path which includes stretching and flexibility, strength training and aerobic activity. Most of us do not follow the most appropriate meal planning for our nutritional needs. Just as an athlete needs a coach to reach their goals, a certified fitness and nutrition coach can assist you in reaching yours – an investment that will provide a healthy return!
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.