CULLMAN – We all want to stay fit and healthy, and with the New Year just underway you may feel a new resolve to accomplish your goals. Starting a new and healthy lifestyle is a great endeavor at any time of year, but it is not something to enter into on a whim or with the wrong mindset. Local trainers weighed in on the subject with a few tips to keep in mind if you are setting out on the journey to a healthier life.
Local trainer at Cullman’s Wellness and Aquatic Center, Sheila Federer, helps people all over the area stay motivated. She says that the first thing those who are just beginning need learn is that it is not a fast process and to pace yourself.
“First and foremost, remember that you are a beginner and go into it slowly,” said Federer. “The pace really needs to be set depending on the individual and their needs. For some working out three days a week will work to start, but that may not be right for everyone.”
She went on to note that possibly the most important part of being healthy is nutrition.
“Nutrition is key in my mind,” she said. “And remember that you are going to have setbacks. I tell people to remember that water in is water off. I also always suggest 5 small meals a day, every 2.5 hours. I don’t believe in diets, I believe in healthy nutrition. A good balance of protein, complex carbs, lots of vegetables and some fruit are essential to staying healthy.”
A small, and more personal gym that is connected to Rennards Gallery on 1st Ave SE, is the perfect place for those who want to start their year on the right track. Shannon Berse is a long time fitness expert and former bodybuilder. Her wealth of knowledge as both a trainer and nurse allows her to give her customers a unique experience.
“This is a private gym that is one on one,” said Berse. “You pay one monthly fee and that entitles you to three days a week with a personal trainer for an hour each time. We go over nutrition and individualized workouts. I use to be a body builder, and my husband use to be a power lifter, so we have been working in the fitness world for some time.”
For Shannon and her husband Dennis, helping others achieve their goals without breaking their budget is the most rewarding part of the job. For many, going to larger gyms can be intimidating with crowds of people and equipment that you may or may not know how to use properly if you are beginner. With B-fit’s unique experience, you will not share the gym with scores of people. Your time is your time. For those that want to start a fitness routine without a gym membership or trainer, Berse says that there is strength in numbers.
“Get a partner,” she said. “Get someone to go and workout with you a few times a week. You need someone who you can check with and be accountable to. Also, a big tip is to not expect too much from yourself too fast. You can start out walking just five minutes a day. Don’t go into it saying that I have to do 30 minutes a day, and if I can’t, then there is no use in trying. Always keep going no matter if you do five minutes or an hour.”
There are a number of ways to start a healthy year, but only one way to maintain it for a lifetime, consistency. Stay consistent and know that any bumps along the way do not mean you have failed. Remember, you can only fail if you stop trying.
To contact personal trainer Sheila Federer, please call 256-531-6217. To contact B-fit, please call 256-739-5997. B-fit will be running an introductory special through the month of January where you can sign up for only $50 a month.
