David Oshman is an ACE, AFAA, and NFIA Certified Trainer, Nutritional Counselor, Lecturer and Wellness Consultant

Fit and Wellness –New Year’s 2003 Column-

Number ONE!!!!!

David Oshman, M.Ed. is an A.C.E., A.F.A.A., and N.F.I.A. Certified Trainer, Nutritional Counselor, Writier, Lecturer and Wellness Consultant. Patricia Oshman is an A.F.P.A. Certified Personal Trainer. Both practice out of Merritt Athletic Club. They provide empowerment and individual plans for increased health and fitness. Visit their website: http://fitness-life.com

It's the same thing every New Year’s Day! Frustrated by bad habits like smoking, overeating or not exercising, many of us vow to change through the use of New Year's resolutions. "This year, I'm dieting, or exercising regularly or quitting smoking for good" we pledge. By March, the treadmill you bought is as clothes hanger, the diet books are gracefully adorning your library and the cigarettes still are in your pocket. Defeated and demoralized, you give up completely and revert back to your old habits….hoping next year will be different!

So what’s the problem, and, even MORE important, WHAT’S the solution?

Glad you asked, Bunky!

The core of the problem regarding successfully engaging in and maintaining a fitness and weight reduction program is that we become too goal-oriented.

When most of us talk about weight loss, we usually come up with a specific number. For example, let’s say "losing 15 pounds" is your resolution this year. Not an unreasonable goal…

You begin perfectly. You join a club, and show up every day. And, alas, you only lose two pounds in the first month. You’ll likely get frustrated, feel like you’re "wasting your time," and probably quit. Who wouldn’t… being faced with apparent failure coupled with such a time and energy investment?

The solution? You focus on the process of living a healthier life and learn to actually enjoy your exercise and fitness experience. You view it as a "challenge". A hobby if you will. And, truly, if you learn how to exercise correctly, and effectively, it may well turn out to be one of the most challenging, and spiritually rewarding activities that you engage in. Imagine… actually looking forward to going to the gym, or taking that long walk, or feeling the vitality and joy of your body!!! Yes… this CAN be done!!!!

You will lose the 15 pounds, and MORE -- as a natural consequence of the fun you had during the process. See the difference? Focusing on the process keeps you present in the moment while fostering a longer-term dedication. This beats the more customary, and ineffective "goal approach" every time. And, it is truly a health-nurturing form of meditation, and even PLAY!

Remember, much of the media places unrealistic physical standards on us, particularly on women. Throw all of that out the door and adopt a broader fitness philosophy: Strive to be a healthier and happier human being and enjoy the journey! Learn to fully appreciate and value what you do have – your health and your body, and how they allow you to celebrate life!

The other error that many people make in their fitness "resolution" is what we call "bundling". That is the "all or nothing" approach. You say, "I’ll quit smoking, lose weight, get strong, trim my butt, AND even stop picking my nose at red lights!". Well, Bunky, those are GREAT goals. But, unfortunately, when ONE goes, they ALL go. So, start simple, and keep those commitments SEPARATE…

If you join a gym, your goal is merely to SHOW UP! If you compromise your healthy eating program, restart it TOMORROW, NOT next week, or next year! And if you fall, ALWAYS get back up! It’s NEVER too late!

-David and Trish Oshman

FOLLOW-THROUGH HINTS:

Form a your OWN support group (cheerleaders!) of friends and family, who will cheer you on and also challenge you to stick to your health and fitness goals.
Make a list of the benefits of changing and put it someplace where you will see it every day (even on your Ben and Jerry’s Carton!).
Pay attention to your thinking and try to counter negative ideas like "I'll never succeed" with positive thoughts, like "Today, I made some progress… I showed up!"
Get an exercise partner, or spend more time with friends who are paying attention to their health and fitness.
Have a contingency plan for when you are tempted NOT to follow up, and a plan on how to get BACK ON TRACK!
Give yourself rewards (NOT Pepperoni Pizza!) and pats on the back just for your willingness to hang in there!

GREAT EXCUSES NOT TO GET FIT:

I don’t have enough time!

Well, you would have much MORE… if you lived longer, and healthier! The Surgeon General’s states: "Lack of Physical Activity Is Detrimental To Your Health".

PRIORITIZE! Isn’t it time that you were good to yourself, and also give people you love the gift of YOUR health and fitness.

I’m too far gone! I’m too old/young/???? to get fit!

False! You are NEVER too old, or too "far gone", to benefit from a well-structured program. And working out in a professional club environment reduces risk, and increases success!

I need to check with my wife/husband/dog, etc….

Here’s the choice, stay unfit, or get healthy and fit. That is really the only decision that needs to be made. There is no doubt that anyone you care about, and who cares about you, will support your new or renewed commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

I need to "think about it" – I’ll do it tomorrow!

Embarking on a fitness program is a truly life-enhancing decision. Today is a PERFECT day to start your health and fitness journey!

Do It Today

-David and Trish Oshman