OREGON – It is that time of year – the cold, the snow, the extra weight.
While not much can be done about the first two, people do tend to focus more on exercise and nutrition as the new year dawns.
That is where people like Kim Henry, a certified personal trainer with the Oregon park District, come in. They can help you get back on track and live a healthier lifestyle.
Henry is also a certified nutrition coach, and has been with the Oregon Park District in different capacities since 1998.
She sat down to answer some questions about getting back into shape.
Question: So, do you really see a lot of people using the beginning of the year to try and get into shape?
Answer: I do. Of late, it appears more people are concerned with getting into “better health” than “in shape.” They view the beginning of the year as a “fresh Start” or a “new beginning.” I try and teach them to find something they love to do and then find the healthy benefit from that. For example, what sport do you like? Use the interest you have in that particular sport to get you moving and keep you moving even when the glamour of the New Year’s excitement has died down.
At the Oregon Park District, we not only offer a full line of fitness equipment, but also basketball courts, indoor pool, racquetball courts, wallyball, pickleball, and many youth and adult athletics. It isn’t just about weights and cardio machines anymore. Get active and stay active in those things you truly find enjoyment and entertainment doing!
Q: What is the difference between being successful and being a failure on the journey to better health in the new year?
A: Just “showing up” is half the battle. Getting yourself motivated and keeping yourself motivated to stay on a schedule or routine is often what defines a successful journey from a failure. Simply by staying motivated to maintain that schedule of putting on your workout clothes, lacing up those sneakers, warming up the car, driving to the gym and walking into the building…. You have already won.
A lot of people who start to become active make the mistake of thinking they must be perfect and follow a plan without fault. By thinking that way, you set yourself up for failure. Instead of perfection, set realistic goals for yourself at the start such as working out 2-3 times a week.
Nutrition is another important component. Perfection is not going to work. Set those realistic goals and allow yourself one “cheat day,” to dabble in foods you enjoy, that may or may not be “healthy.” Not only does that speed up your metabolism, it gives you a chance to enjoy those things you miss as a reward for your hard work and dedication. Just make sure you get yourself back on schedule and routine the other 6 days.
Q: Is it really down to diet and exercise?
A: Well of course it is! In getting active and healthy, there are no magic pills. The main thing to understand is your body. You want to eat healthier for your body, but you must also consider a few things like your age, your health history, your goals, and your lifestyle. There are no cookie cutter plans that work for everyone. What works great for one person, may not be the best alternative for another.
The same goes for your workouts. You need to tailor your workouts to what works best for you and what you find most enjoyable in doing on a regular basis. Are you a runner? Do you like to lift weights? Do you like aerobics? Do you like sports? Changing up your routines and activities from day-to-day and week-to-week also helps keep things fun and enjoyable. After all, variety is the spice of life (and workouts). The more enjoyment you get from becoming active, the more likely you will be to stick with the lifestyle change.
Q: What do you say to people who are worried about “working out?”
A: Don’t fret, everyone has nerves when they begin down this road. The hardest part is walking through the door to begin your journey. Give me a chance to show you ways it can be done without hassle. Give it an honest attempt for 6-8 weeks and your body will thank you. Develop a realistic plan with realistic goals and stick to it. Whether you are a beginner or want to take your health and fitness to the next level, I can provide the personalized instruction, guidance, and support necessary to help you feel and see results.
The Oregon Park District offers individual or package rates for Personal Training. All new clients will start with a 1 hour consultation where you will discuss your healthy history, establish fitness goals, and even start right away with measurements and/or weigh-in.
Q: What are some daily things people can do to be in better shape, or just maintain their health?
A: When people approach me with questions such as this, I usually begin with 4 things:
Q: Any other suggestions for people?
A: Come see what the Oregon Park District has to offer. The Nash Recreation Center offers something for everyone. The Fitness Center is over 6,000 square feet featuring a 3-lane rubberized track that surrounds the CYBEX strength training machines, free weights and cardiovascular equipment.
Our newly remodeled Prairie Room offers Spin Bikes, TRX equipment, Jump Boxes, Slam Balls, Kettlebells as well as BOSU balls and hand weights. The Nash indoor pool features stairs to a 3-foot bay area attached to a 25 meter, 6 lane pool. The deepest area is 10 feet. After your workout, you can enjoy the 13-person hot tub with both high and low jets. Our gymnasium features two full basketball courts and two racquetball courts are located in the facility. Stop by for a complimentary tour to see the many amenities we offer.
