I just returned from speaking at the National Strength and Conditioning Association's Personal Trainers Conference. It was a great motivator to spend this blog space on encouraging you to get expert advice about your exercise routine. The investment is so well worth it.
When we are young we have youth on our side, and often can do all sorts of physical things without getting hurt, or getting hurt so badly that we're down for the count for months. But as we age, and we have so many different responsibilities, as well as the often sedentary demands of work, we are commonly not in the same kind of all around good physical condition as we were at one time. This puts us at greater risk of injury when we do exercise.
Working with an exercise expert to customize a program for your body and your needs can make a huge difference not only in your results, but in how much you actually enjoy your fitness routine. It may only take one or two meetings, and then you'll be off and running, or cycling, or swimming, or weight training, etc. But the program will fit you. Over time, periodic updates will help the program evolve as your fitness improves.
The cost for an hour of an expert's time is often no more than 2 or 3 restaurant meals. Just like you see a medical specialist when you are ill, you should invest in spending time with an exercise specialist to keep you healthy and fit. The right trainer turns exercise from something you have to do, into something you want to do. It should become a fun activity that you look forward to, because it meets your needs.
Always work with a certified personal trainer who has the education to keep you safe. It is a sound investment in your body and your health.
Yours in a good mood,
Dr. Susan Kleiner