It is the end of 2011, another interesting and exciting year in the world of health and fitness. This industry is always growing and evolving in many ways that help and support the public and especially our members. We are delighted to offer them new programs and amenities to make their lives better.
As we look ahead to 2012, the first thing that will happen is that people will want to get on a weight loss program to take off the weight they put on over the holiday season. There once was a report that said that the average person gains about 5-7 pounds of holiday weight. However, it has been proven that most people gain a net of one pound. That should be easy to take off.
But the mindset and the conversations at the gym will typically revolve around losing weight. I think the gym is the one place where people especially enjoy having this talk. Why else would we go to the gym to work and sweat, right? Well, of course, some people actually enjoy working out and feel better for it, a better attitude if possible.
So the question I like to ask is why do we go through all this torture of gaining and losing weight? And what message are we sending to our families when we perpetuate this predictable cycle? Can we have our cake and eat it too?
I think we can and many people often do. And I believe it is our job as health and fitness professionals to show how it can be done. If you have not displayed information about getting through parties and celebrations yet, it is not too late. If you have the resources to offer education on healthy eating all year round, now is the time to put it out there.
Last week, I blogged abut childhood obesity, and this is an opportunity to mention that we must remember how our behavior is perceived by our children. Are we sending the right message when we workout regularly, but have poor eating habits at home whether it is now or any other time?
New research says that parents need to be culinary role models by choosing healthy foods and moderate portions, as eating habits become ingrained in childhood prior to 10 years old, not withstanding later social influences affecting body weight.
Let us lead the way in guiding our members to better health by not just encouraging weight loss now but by educating about healthy eating all year long and role modeling behavior for others. If you take care of your body and your health all year long, you can have that cake and eat it guilt-free for the New Year.
Judith Samuels, M.A. is a certified nutrition and wellness consultant and master personal trainer at Sport&Health Clubs in the Washington D.C. Metro Area. She can be reached via e-mail at judi@judisamuels.com.
