Exercise Resolutions

This is the time of the year when many of you are making plans to start a new fitness program. Unfortunately, many of these plans fall by the wayside as we get busy with children's activities, friends, spouses and a large variety of activities. There are always plenty of distractions in Shanghai. There is also plenty of advice on the web about how to stick to your exercise routine. Below are some of the things that I find helpful:

Pick an activity that you enjoy: For me basketball is a lot of fun and free and convenient. I play two or three time a week. Of course I do Pilates to keep me strong, flexible, and resistant to injury.

Find a friend or a group: If you do an activity with someone else you are less likely to cancel and you can motivate each other. Plus the time goes by faster! You can also get in touch with group that does an activity that you like. Like a dance group, flag football. If basket ball is your thing then give me a call.

Focus on what is important: Don't try to do too much. Not too much exercise and not too much other stuff either. If you have two kids, two dogs, are running the community center and the school PTA, that is enough! Don't waste your time trying to start exercising.

Find a trainer: Make an appointment with a personal trainer to learn how to exercise in an effective, efficient manner. Many PT's are flexible and willing to meet with you once a month to update you training program. Joining a group class is another great way to stick to a program. Pilates reformer class, anyone?

Measure your results: If you are interested in slimming down, by the way that shouldn't be the only reason you exercise, then measure yourself every month or so to see what you have accomplished. Weight isn't a good indicator of exercise progress. It can misleading because muscle weighs 6 times more than fat.

I have found that these things work for me and I hope they work for you, but if they don't then dont be afraid to experiment and find what works for you. With our current iphone, facebook, wifi connected lifestyle we are moving around less and less. Everyone one needs an activity to keep them healthy.