Fitness Is a Way of Life — Tara Bernardin

Getting healthy is a choice. Getting fit is based on many decisions that you have to make consciously and be disciplined in your daily life following routines that you continue whether you are in the mood or not. A fitness routine involves resilient behavior that is melded into a training program that fits your needs. The success of that plan is found through relentless dedication and hard work structured in your weekly progress.

You have to be active in your own fitness program and constantly strive to achieve the goals you’ve set for yourself. The progress will be slow but in time you and others will notice your hard work paying off. There will be hurdles. Life can be one huge roadblock in accomplishing what you think is the impossible especially when you have young kids, a husband and small business BUT do not use that as an excuse to not go forward or put on hold your ambitious body and mind makeover. Your fitness plan is not just a body overhaul but a mind reset.

Just as our paths in life are different so are out fitness levels. Magazines and online articles will have you believe that routines can be “one size” fit all model but that is far from ideal and practical. Whether it be time, underlying conditions, or even a sudden health issue a universal fitness plan is not ideal. You have to tailor your workout plan to what suits your need. Your fitness goals are just that, YOUR fitness goals. Keep in mind that you or I are not the same as the athletes or entertainers that are featured in articles that share their workout regime. Their job is to look great. Yes, we all want that too but we, for the most part are doing it on our own without trainers and/or professional chefs catering our meals that match our diets.

Things I like to keep in mind:

• Make exercise and healthy eating habits a part of your daily schedule.
• Create short and long term goals.
• Don’t stop once you’ve reached your initial goals. CREATE NEW GOALS.
• Make your fitness journey a lifestyle.

It is never too late to get in shape. Never too late to improve your flexibility, cardiovascular endurance, strength, mobility and overall health. Once we make that commitment, don’t quit. This should not be just for the summer or a wedding or trip. This journey should be a lifestyle to keep you healthy for yourself and your family. Stay fit to be long enough to enjoy the joys of the world, for me that is my husband, two daughters and my son.