Let’s be honest, few people LOVE to workout. Even Rob, the Fitness Centre Supervisor at Harry Jerome, agrees. But I do love the feeling after I’ve worked out. For me, exercise is a stress reducer and energy booster.
At my final session, Rob and I go through my takeaway booklet. I have a written list of all the exercises I’ve done-- plus some charming stickman drawings to show the poses. There is a helpful squat/row stickman, a sky punch stickman and so on. This booklet is my menu, so to speak, to reference when I hit the gym in the future. I’ll simply pick from this list, that includes aerobic and strength training exercises, to make a complete routine. Ta da!
I also walked away with some memorable tips:
#1. Aging is not a disease
I laughed when Rob said this. But it’s true-- we do act as if aging is a disease! We have anti-aging skin care, anti-aging diets, anti-aging supplements, anti-aging workouts and more. It’s crazy. But in the end, there’s nothing we can do to stop or cure it. Just work with it, pick age appropriate exercises and take care of your health.
#2. Get real
Be realistic about your fitness goals. No, you won’t get a six-pack after the age of 35. Yes, if you lose weight too fast, you’ll likely gain it back. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, so do your homework. Make sure you get advice from qualified sources including well-educated trainers and nutritionists. If in doubt about vitamins and supplements (and aren’t we all?), Dial a Dietician. It’s toll free in BC at 8-1-1!
#3. Just do it
Set workouts in your schedule and don’t question it. This is key for me. I can think of some pretty good excuses why I don’t have time to exercise. But now I make sure to carve time in my calendar. When my son has a 6:45 am hockey practice, I automatically volunteer to go. While he’s on the ice, I’ll hit the gym. It doesn’t interrupt my day and I feel quite proud about what I’ve accomplished before 8 am.
Feeling bored with your routine? Switch it up. Also, change your trainer if you want a new perspective (FYI this was Rob’s idea!).
When I signed up for these personal training sessions, my goal was to schedule mandatory time for me and learn how to improve my fitness and strength. After four sessions, I feel I have the guidance and motivation to be successful.
My mission is accomplished - so I draw a final happy face stickman in my booklet.
Are you’re interested in developing a personalized fitness program based on your current fitness level and goals? Check out North Vancouver Recreation and Culture Commission Personal Training for more information.
Read Kari's previous blog posts about her personal training journey:
