101A - Fit and Well Column for December 12th, 2004
TITLE: "Gifts of Fitness"
Dear David and Trish,
'Tis the season to be Jolly! And I have decided to give at least one "gift of fitness" to my loved ones. The problem is, I can't decide what is most appropriate, and useful. There are SO many advertisements these days for all kinds of magical fitness contraptions. I haven't a clue. Can you two assist?
Anxiously,
Kathy in Columbia
Dear Kathy,
A common dilemma! But certainly a wonderful objective.
So let's examine the some of the best, and worst, fitness gifts for Christmas.
Rating: 2
Many well-meaning people give exercise equipment to friends and loved ones expecting that equipment to motivate. Well, unfortunately, it doesn't! Equipment is a tool of exercise, not a motivator. In more cases than not, equipment received in this way ends up as clothes hangers, book ends, or very sophisticated planters! This is especially true of the gizmos commonly promoted on television as miracle machines!
Rating: 5
Not a bad idea at all. Information, when accurate, is ALWAYS helpful to people wanting to learn how to get fit, and stay fit. But, please, be sure that the books are credible, and honest. Titles like "A New Body in 10 Seconds a Day" may sell a lot of copies… but is absolutely worthless… and worse!
Box This:
FIT TIP:
A healthy lifestyle, and good health, are within your reach no matter what your age, or what your past is. It’s okay to cheat a little now and then on your nutrition program (especially around the holidays). But don't get discouraged, and scrap all your good intentions because of a holiday "binge" or "slip". Always focus on the big picture… a life-style that promotes health, joy, and balance.
END