Director's Corner  

Welcome to 2015 and Happy New Year!

Sometimes the idea of starting an exercise program seems like more trouble than it's worth. After reviewing piles of evidence based research during my Graduate Program, I can assure you that doing a small amount of exercise a few days per week is much better than not doing any. Furthermore, going into an exercise program with the intention to adopt a lifestyle of 100% exercise and nutritional compliance many times leads to feelings of failure. Instead, I tell our members that's OK to enjoy some dark chocolate, a glass of wine or a day off from exercise. If you stick to an exercise and healthy nutrition plan 80% of the time, you will be successful.

Many of our Fitness Center Members keep their New Year's goals to themselves. My recommendation... let our Personal Trainers and Group Activity Instructors assist you in meeting your goals. Psychological rewards, including compliments from friends and family, are highly motivating and meaningful. You will be receiving plenty of those if you let your friends and staff at the Fitness Center know you're attempting to attain certain goals. There is a higher level of accountability if you share your goals.

Lastly, I encourage you to join a Group Activity class or schedule a specific workout time 2 to3 times per week. In the many years I have been teaching, I have witnessed many, many wonderful lasting friendships bloom from exercising together.

Our mood, our heart, our blood pressure, our sleep, our clothing size.... is likely to improve with taking the first steps to a moderate exercise program. The research is clear and abundant.

We hope to see you soon at the IronOaks Fitness and Racquet Center.