What does it really cost?

I see this all the time.  You get your nails done every 2-3 weeks, you get your hair colored and cut every 4-6 weeks, you eat out, you shop for new clothes, etc.  Then you say, “I really don’t have the money right now to invest in an exercise/nutrition program”.  Well, you are spending the money, just on other things.  When does your body get to the top of your priority list?

What will it take to get you to invest in what is below the surface, beyond the skin?  Your heart, your lungs, your muscles and yes, those bones!  Getting our hair and nails done makes us feel good about ourselves and boost our confidence.  I would say that investing in exercise and nutrition is one of the best things you can do to boost your confidence.  You feel stronger, healthier, have a better shape and much more energy to get through your day. 

What is it costing you to NOT get active and eat right?  Your health!  While it may not seem like a big deal now, continued sedentary lifestyle and poor eating habits will catch up with you and then it will hit you and your pocket book in a really big way!  Low energy, low self esteem, higher risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, cancer and heart disease will not only drain your bank account, but drain your time that you could be spending with loved ones and living a healthy active life!

The rates of obesity and chronic health problems are at an all time high in the U.S. right now, making it more important than ever to get moving!  A recent study states that being fit (even if you are overweight) reduces the risk of most diseases and premature death.  Being fit is one of the best things you can do to take care of what is on the inside!  Go beyond the surface and get to what really matters.  Taking care of yourself is the most important thing you can do for your family.  If you don’t take care of you, who is going to take care of them?

Take the first step and yes, I mean that literally!  If you are not active right now, get out and walk for at least 10 minutes twice a day.  Next week, make it 15 minutes twice a day.  Get to where you can walk for at least 30 minutes every day.  Research CONSISTENTLY reports the positive benefits of walking.  And guess what?  It is free!  

To get the most bang for your excise time – incorporate strength training.  Building lean muscle increases your resting metabolic rate (that means you burn more calories sitting on the couch!)  Building muscles also stimulates bone growth. Both women and men are at risk of osteoporosis as they age and strength training is the best thing you can do to prevent this disabling disease.

So what is the best approach for strength training for busy people who want to burn fat?  Stay tuned!