Fallsnewspress.com - Parks Remarks (Aug. 22): A positive lifestyle change equals a healthier person

by Bill Lohan, Parks and Recreation Superintendent

It's a hard thing for me to admit, but when I became the Natatorium Facility Manager a few years back, I was completely interested in the job, but could not have been less interested in physical fitness. I remember thinking, "should I seriously take this job when I'm really not a fitness buff?" After working there a few short months, what I found is that it can really be infectious being surrounded by people who take an interest in their physical well-being. I then began to consider that as a baby boomer, I needed to get serious about fitness and take better care of myself. I just didn't know how to get started.

About a year ago, my wife Stephanie informed me that she, too, wanted to make a bigger commitment to her health. We both joined the Group Personal Training Program at the Nat in August of 2009. When you're new to physical fitness, it can be really intimidating to be in a facility like the Natatorium. It's like being in a foreign country and you don't speak the language. With so many different types of equipment, where do you start?

That's where Group Personal Training comes into play. This unique program allows four co-workers or friends a chance to experience high-level, exclusive fitness instruction in a small group setting. My wife and I joined with two of our closest friends. The training included four classes that met one day a week for four consecutive weeks with one of the Natatorium's nationally certified personal trainers. Our baseline measurements were taken during week one and our goals and assessments were evaluated. A complete introduction to the fitness equipment also took place.

During week two, we focused on learning about proper nutrition, what foods to eat and began keeping our own food journals. Weeks three and four were both highly intense on the fitness equipment and floor as we concentrated on cardio, flexibility, balance, strength and core exercises. At the conclusion of the four classes, we were then on our own to maintain a regular fitness routine and practice proper nutrition.

Now that a year has passed, both Stephanie and I have not only lost weight, but we've kept it off. More importantly, our bodies are healthier because we are eating better and exercising regularly. We look better, feel better, and best of all, we are able to participate more in activities of daily living. I am no longer winded after lawn work and Stephanie is really able to keep up with our growing young grandsons!

Group Personal Training can work for you, too. Research shows that people who work out in a group or with friends are more likely to stick to an exercise program. Peer pressure can be motivating.

I encourage you to join this program with three of your friends.

The hardest part is just getting started. Stephanie and I know, because we've been there.

Watch for Group Personal Training to begin again this fall at the Natatorium. Call 330-971-8078 for more information.