Dear Trish and David:

It’s a bit embarrassing for me to ask this, but it’s important…

I am on a very strict budget, but need to enhance my fitness program. I’m not even sure I can afford the dues at a gym. Is my situation hopeless? How much DOES it cost to get and stay fit and well?

-Struggling in Annapolis

Dear Struggling,

So here’s the way we are going to approach this problem…

We are going to present you with what we feel are the most important elements or tasks in a fitness and wellness program. We are going to PRIORITIZE them, not necessarily based on cost, but based on need and return.

This is critical, and really non-negotiable. I know it can be expensive, especially if you don’t have health insurance. But anyone who commences a fitness program MUST have this information. It is a good idea during your exam to mention your intention to begin a fitness program to your practitioner and ask for advise and maybe recommendations.

You need accurate feedback regarding your strengths, weaknesses, and proper exercise protocols BEFORE you begin working out. Trust a professional for this. Often, local Health Clubs offer FREE Fitness Assessments to potential clients as a marketing tool and to increase membership. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of this. And, maybe you’ll like the facility, and JOIN. If not, no harm done!

Yes, we have basic standards of functional fitness (like breathing and walking, etc), but chances are you want MORE from your body. Maybe some changes in composition, reduction in body fat, increase muscle mass, stamina and endurance improvements… whatever. It is YOUR body, your health, and YOUR choice. Make your wish list first. Then you can proceed to specific steps to get there.

We consider this a very good investment. True, you can exercise at home without equipment, or purchase home exercise machine(s), but historically, a gym membership provides the environment and motivation for long-term success.

A little note here. The most expensive is NOT necessarily the best! All else being equal, the most important factors in choosing a gym is accessibility (convenience) and attitude/spirit. The accessibility part is easy… it needs to be close to home, or work. The attitude part is a bit more complex, but easy to define. When you walk in, do you feel comfortable? Are there genuine smiles at the reception desk? Are the members grimacing, or enjoying their experience. Believe it or not, it is the management and staff that shape the attitude and overall experience within a club. TRUST YOUR FEELINGS!

Nutritional Counseling is NOT just for weight loss. It is generally accepted that proper nutrition is more than 75% of a successful fitness program (for ALL objectives, even muscle growth). So get the scoop on eating right for YOUR lifestyle, and health objectives.

Well, here’s a "freebee" from two very experienced Personal Trainers…

Want to start an effective fitness program TODAY? WALK!!! That’s right… moderate intensity walking for between 35 and 60 minutes is a prescription that fits just about everyone! Start TODAY (after you get your medical clearance, of course!).

Our column, books on fitness (Arnold’s is GREAT), magazines, whatever. Get educated and inspired. Trish and I especially enjoy "muscle and Fitness" magazine. Good articles, practicle, and generally effective. Beware of hidden advertisements, though. Plenty there!

No… don’t forget about us starving Personal Trainers! If you can afford one, it is money well invested. You will learn, get motivated, become inspired, challenged, and more. There is training available at the gym, AND at home.

You can see that there is just NO reason not to get started today on your road to improved fitness and health. Make a commitment, and start walking (NOT running), towards your fitness goals!

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