Your Health FAQ’s
Below are some common questions regarding health and fitness.
1. Why is a Personal Trainer important?
We can certainly work out on our own, but most of us tend to be too easy on ourselves and lack the commitment to stick to a routine. Did you know that 80% of Americans presently do not exercise hard enough or long enough to obtain any health benefit? A Personal Trainer is your coach, and he/she develops a safe yet challenging program specifically created for you and your individual goals. By booking sessions in advance, people are more likely to stick to it and get where they want to go.
2. I’m a runner. Isn’t that enough?
No. Although you are working your heart and legs, muscle strengthening is vital to overall health. Just like a trunk of a tree must grow its width in order to sustain violent winds, our bones create density as a result of muscle resistance. If we are not building stronger muscles, then we are losing bone mass as well. You must incorporate weight training in your fitness program.
3. Won’t I get “huge” from lifting weights?
Only if you want to. Women more than men fear looking like the Hulk as a result of lifting weights. Most women would literally have to spend their entire day at the gym to get that way. Actually, lifting weights trims and tones our body, melting fatty tissue. Combined with aerobic or cardiovascular exercise, you will have the look you are striving for: a lean, mean, healthy machine!
4. How often should I work out?
How often you work out depends upon your current condition and the goals you have set for yourself. Traditionally, three to five days a week is the norm. As a Personal Trainer, I can help determine an appropriate, realistic program to meet your unique needs. Contact me today and mention that you saw me on the web, and I’ll be happy to give you a FREE first session where we learn about each other and begin to make the necessary steps toward a healthier, happier you!
5. If I work out hard enough, can I turn fat into muscle?
Sorry to say, but no. Fat cannot turn into muscle. However, the good news is that with a healthy, well-balanced diet combined with three to five days of cardio exercise at the right intensity, you can burn your fatty tissue away. Add to that some weight-bearing exercise each week, and you can strengthen your muscles to give you that “sculpted” look. Good health takes the combination of all three, though. Step by step and day by day, you can get there!
6. What’s all the hub-bub about carbs? Should I eliminate them completely to lose weight?
Absolutely not!! Carbohydrates are the main source of fuel for our energy system. Without them, we cannot perform even simple tasks. The big movement of “low carb” is just one more attempt to steal money from you, promise incredible results and leave you frustrated. Stick to a healthy, well-balanced diet that includes carbohydrates, protein and the “good” fat. Do watch the processed carbs, though, which are not natural. These are found in cakes, cookies, ice cream, soft drinks, etc. Increase your fruits and vegetables, and you will have enough energy to get through your day. Warning: If you do not eat any carbs, you run the risk of liver damage. The body will get what it needs, one way or another. It’s not worth it. Eat right and exercise.
7. My job is really hectic, and I am feeling the pressures and stress. Any suggestions?
Exercise is a great way to combat the negative impacts of stress, which can be fatigue, poor sleep, depression, sickness and a myriad of other maladies. Even though you may not feel like it, get out and exercise. Take a bike ride, go for a walk or hit the gym. You will not only feel less tense, you will actually have more energy to do the things you love, which will make you happier in the long run. And, exercise can help you sleep better!
8. How does Fitness Coaching work?
Instead of coming to my private studio, I work with you over the telephone or via Skype to help you stay on track with your health & fitness goals. As your Fitness Coach, I will:
- Evaluate your current condition and determine a proper program to meet your health goals
- Help you discover your motivation and stay focused on “why” you want to get healthy
- Keep you accountable to your custom program
- Create a specific nutritional guide for your unique needs
- Answer your questions and help you make better choices today for a healthier tomorrow!