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Posts Tagged ‘motivation’
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February 26th, 2010
Need Motivation? /// No Comments ///
By Adam Martin
I was teaching my Goal Setting class the other day when a few guests were having a really hard time coming up with motivation to exercise. So I suggested that they close their eyes and envision themselves ten years from now. They answered the following questions from two different perspectives; first, if they continued in their unhealthy ways or secondly, if they decided this second to begin turning things around.
- How does it feel getting in and out of a chair or up and down a flight of stairs?
- Are you able to get onto the floor and play actively with your grandchildren/children?
- If you were to look into the mirror, what might you think to yourself?
- How do you feel getting out of bed in the morning?
- What fitness-related activities are you participating in outside of work?
- Are you living joyfully?
If you are having a hard time coming up with motivation to exercise close your eyes, envision yourself ten years from now and ask these same questions. Write down some of the responses and I bet you’ll find some motivation.
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December 11th, 2009
“HOW DAVID BEATS GOLIATH” /// No Comments ///
By Cheney
By: Adam Martin, H3 Fitness Director
Over the course of the last 5 years I have become very fond of the literary style of sociologist/psychologist/author Malcolm Gladwell. His list of non-fiction bestsellers includes The Tipping Point, Blink and Outliers. Malcolm has a wonderful way of transforming his case studies into a real life situational analysis.
Below I have included a link to an article he wrote for the “Annals of Innovation” blog in the New Yorker titled, How David Beats Goliath. I suggest you print it out, break out the highlighter and enjoy. He intertwines three somewhat unrelated topics to show that David’s biblical victory over Goliath is not an anomaly in common society. He focuses his scientific justification on a study produced by renowned political researcher Ivan Toft. In the review he notes that two factors will determine the success of a “David”. The first, the passion for victory. And secondly, the ability to create an individualized plan in preparation for battle.
I reason that if we are both passionate about change and willing to take our own path to victory rather than a traditional cookie-cutter view we may be more successful. Any comments?
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December 7th, 2009
Exercise YOUR Motivation /// No Comments ///
By Cheney
By: Jeff, H3 Program Intern
Note: This is Jeff’s last week here as a Program intern at H3. We will miss him greatly — and so will the readers of H3 Daily.com! All of us here at H3 would like to say THANK YOU for a job well done! Make sure to leave Jeff a note before he heads back to the ‘real world’.
There is no single universal plan for sticking to exercise or for that matter, a weight-loss program. In my experience, the best method to get us out of the reclining chair and psyche ourselves up for a challenging workout comes from within. No one can make us tread it out each day or even draw us into a beach boot-camp, there has to be something more individually internal to a successful exercise plan. The support of a friend or a trainer may in the end be your motivation, however only YOU can decide.
Here’s the key: find what personally motivates YOU, and cling onto it. For some of us, all it takes to start our engines is the thrill of that next road race or an inspiring pump up jam. For others it gets deeper, maybe we exercise because we want to be around for our loved ones, and at the end of the day set an example for others to live by.
We have to remember that health affects every single part of our lives and if we want to get the most out of our one chance, we must tailor our lifestyles in a healthy direction. There will always be reasons (or excuses) why we don’t want to exercise, but let’s put it into perspective: are there FAR more reasons to be exercising? Without a doubt. Besides the many health benefits: reduced blood pressures, stronger bones, reduced depression or controlling of a healthy body weight – the reason become far more substantial to the individual.
For that reason, it seems to me that the more YOU motivation someone has the healthier they’ll be, and the easier it is to maintain an exercise program. With that said, here are a few thoughts that are sure to spark a little YOU motivation in everyone.
1. The feelings you get after a solid workout. After going for a long run or completing a vigorous workout it’s truly a signature exercise “HIGH.” You’ll begin asking yourself: “Man, if I feel this good now, what about after my next workout?”
2. Success stories. Reading or hearing about others success can be extremely motivational. Such as someone who lossed one hundred pounds or what about the guy who ran fifty marathons in fifty days!
3. You time. Exercise is a time to start the day off on the right foot or a good time to reflect. Your doing something good for yourself, be proud of that.
4. Reaching the goal. Setting a goal weight or goal measurements may be your thing, or walking/running a certain amount of miles per week. Whatever the goal is make it realistic and personal.
5. Family and friends. Maybe YOU motivation is being able to play with our kids, or to be around for our grand children. The thought of having not only more time, yet QUALITY time can be enough drive for any exercise plan.
6. Fun. It’s fun to wake up in the morning and go running! Well for me and others it may be, yet create an exercise program that’s going to be fun for YOU. Whether it’s playing tennis, lifting weights or gardening as long as you’re moving.
7. Purchasing new clothes. Hey, who doesn’t love a new saweet pair of jeans? Simply the thought of switching sizes could be what inspires YOU, if it does go for it.
8. Entering a 5k race or longer. As I’ve mentioned before, registering for a future race and paying in advance may be just what keeps you training.
9. A before picture. Looking back on from where you’ve come and where you are going can be motivation enough.
10. Logging In. I believe writing down workouts and exercise accomplishments for the day is extremely important. Literally visualizing what you’ve done will help you stay on track, definitely try it!
That’s only a few ways to get and stay motivated. Another possibility is to print out a few motivational quotes and live by them, literally! Put them on your desktop or the refrigerator if that works for YOU. Remember it’s all about exercising YOU motivation so explore the options and once you find it hang on tight. All and all, here’s one quote for you to take:
“No matter who you are, no matter what you do, you absolutely, positively do have the power to change.”
~Bill Phillips~
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November 2nd, 2009
Avoiding a Burn-Out /// 1 Comment ///
By Cheney
By Jeff, H3 Program Intern
Why exercise? What are we actually trying to accomplish? We all have central reasons for exercise – the opportunity to reduce our blood pressure, risk of heart disease, feelings of depression, and of course to control our weight. With so many phenomenal reasons to exercise, why not go all out day after day after day!? Constant, no breaks, let’s hit H3 class after class after class!
Sometimes our motivation really is sky high; however there is a point at which we may be pushing ourselves past our healthy perimeter. If you’ve stayed with us at Hilton Head Health, you are aware that we live by the words: “Train for Life” – so do just that, listen to your body and let yourself recover from intense exercise sessions or after a long day at H3.
The ultimate objective is not to get burnt out or injured, but to appropriately and safely exercise creating lasting lifestyle changes. Remember, we train for life – not for chronic fatigue or worse injury.
How do I know if I’ve gone too far? In an article written for ACSM’s Health and Fitness Journal, by Dixie Thompson, Ph.D, FASCM, she states that overtraining results when exercise bouts are too long and/or too intense without adequate time for our bodies to recover. Overtraining can also occur when we completely immerse ourselves into an exercise program before gradually easing into the routine.
So let’s never be there – It’s all about recognizing the warnings signs, yet the best approach is to avoid overtraining all together. Here’s how:
Identify Common Cautions:
- Overly excessive fatigue
- Chronic muscle soreness or joint pain
- Increased susceptibility to infections
- Changes in blood pressure
- Elevated resting heart rate
- Psychological: irritability, depression, and anxiety
- Inability to relax, fidgety
That’s what you should be on the lookout for, although here’s how to avoid symptoms of overtraining entirely:
Listen to your body. Sticking to a routine is important; however when your tired your tired – take a day off if your body is asking for it.
Ease into the exercise program. Gradually adjust the workout routine, intensity, volume and duration.
Eat a healthy diet and drink ample water. The proper amount of hydration and nutrients will help your body adapt from exercise.
Stay flexible, Adjust your workouts. If you have had a particularly slam packed day of exercise, go lighter the next day or rest completely.
Set a bed time, Plan time for relaxation. Preferably get 8 hours of sleep, and if you happen to be at H3 head to a stretch and relaxation class or better yet schedule a massage!
In summary, never workout when your in excruciating pain – take a day off if need be. You know your body, so it’s up to you to recognize the cautions. This does not mean taking off weeks at a time, just hold yourself accountable. Keep in mind, we’re training for life not life long exhaustion. Anyways, good luck with your current health and fitness goals and keep up the hard work!
Source:
Overtraining, Dixie Thompson, Ph.D., FACSM
ACSM’s Health and Fitness Journal, September/October 2009, Volume 13, Number 5
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October 26th, 2009
Frigid Fitness: Deciphering the Degrees /// No Comments ///
By Cheney
By Jeff, H3 Program Intern
As winter approaches, the temperature is not only changing, but our thoughts of exercising outside begin to freeze. We start to say to ourselves: “Not today, it’s too cold to exercise outside; I’ll exercise when it warms up!” Well here’s the deal, it’s never to cold to exercise if you prepare!
With a few myths out there, it’s time to learn what’s factual and ten secrets to battling through tough temperatures.
Dispelling Cold Weather Myths
Cold-weather exercise isn’t safe.
False! Nearly everyone can exercise safely in the cold, even individuals with heart issues or asthma. As long as you check with your doctor and learn the H3 ten tough temperature secrets you’ll be fine!
I don’t need to drink as much water since I’m not sweating.
False! No matter who you are, you can become just as dehydrated in cold weather. It’s important to drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after your workout because hydration allows your body to regulate body heat.
Ten Tough Temperature Secrets
1. Layer Up. It is essential to dress in layers so that you can easily remove them as the workout progresses. Start with a thin layer first – preferably material that draws away sweat like polypropylene. Make sure to avoid cotton and don’t over layer! Remember, exercise does generate a good amount of heat, thus the goal of clothing preparation is to balance sweating versus shivering.
2. Block It. You may not be aware, but the sun can be just as harmful (if not more so) in the winter months. Go ahead and put on some sunscreen, lip balm, and sun glasses.
3. Head towards the Wind. If at all possible, begin the walk, jog, bicycle loop or other workout in the prominent direction of the wind. This way on the journey back home, you’ll not only have an extra push, but you’ll be much less likely to get the chills.
4. Make your Motivation. Obviously we’d rather reside in our nice warm beds, but it’s important to maintain our fitness levels over the wintry weather months. This year really make yourself accountable by recording your workouts or performing them with a friend or next door neighbor. Set a goal for the spring and come up with your own personal rewards system for venturing out into the icy elements.
5. Know the Signs. Be able to recognize the signs of frostbite and hypothermia. These are two injuries that can with no trouble result from exercising in cold weather. By understanding the signs and symptoms you can easily avoid and treat these common cold weather injuries and know when to head home!
Signs of frostbite include: numbness, burning, tingling, skin turning white, hard, starts to itch, and/or peels.
Signs of the more severe hypothermia include: shivering, goose bumps, confusion, muscle stiffness, lack of coordination, slurred speech and even unconsciousness.
6. Protect the Essentials. Exposing yourself to the cold certainly poses greater risk to your extremities. Bundle up your hands, feet, and head to protect yourself from frostbite. Lastly, make sure to follow these ten secrets because each will factor into a safe winter exercise experience.
7. Stay Dry. Clothing that becomes wet from rain or precipitation will unquestionably effect your body’s ability to regulate heat.
8. Check the Weather. You’ll not only know how many layer to wear, but sometimes it is just too cold or windy to exercise outside. Pay attention to the wind chill because it is one more factor to increase the need for insulation.
9. Switch to a Wintry Weather Workout. Pick up or learn a new sport/exercise specific to the winter months. Try cross-country skiing, ice skating, snow shoeing or even snow boarding. If snow is unavailable you’re your looking to stay warm, find another alternative hit up the gym scene or a new exercise video.
10. Consume Complex Carbohydrates. Just like exercising in the heat, foods high in carbohydrates enable the body to properly regulate its temperature. Additionally, they provide the body that extra energy if need be. Warm complex carbohydrate foods are particularly ideal such as breads, soups, potatoes and cereals.
Or if all else fails, take a trip down to Hilton Head Health, where we are enjoying 70 degree beautiful weather!
Sources:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fitness/HQ01681
http://sportsmedicine.about.com/cs/environment/a/aa121100a.htm
http://sportsmedicine.about.com/od/sportsnutrition/a/winternutrition.htm
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0826/is_n1_v8/ai_11702656/pg_2/?tag=content;co
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October 23rd, 2009
Shake Your Groove Thing /// 1 Comment ///
By Cheney
Here at H3, we are getting ready for our 2nd annual Reunion Week! This is a special week here, in which our doors open to H3 Members Only. And with this year’s theme, we’re taking you back to the funky days of the 1970s!
So here’s the skinny. This week’s schedule is designed around fun sessions that include physical fitness, healthy cooking, group discussions and social activities. Reunite with your friends, including past H3 guests and staff, during a week of good health and rejuvenation.
We have a few totally awesome features this year including H3 Poker Run, Grocery Store Relay, Shelter Cove Kayaking, and H3 Top Chef Competition. These are just a few of the exciting things planned for the week…you’ll have to join us to find out more! Can ya dig it?
To get your groove thing shakin’…here are the top 10 billboard hits from today in 1970!
1. “I’ll Be There” The Jacksons
2. “Cracklin’ Rosie” Neil Diamond
3. “Green-eyed Lady” Sugarloaf
4. “We’ve only just begun” Carpenters
5. “All right now” Free
6. “Fire and Rain” James Taylor
7. “Candida” Tony Orlando
8. “Indiana Wants Me” R. Dean Taylor
9. “Lola” The Kinks
10. “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” Diana Ross
So don’t forget to join us for this year’s Reunion Week, November 8th – 15th. It’s bound to be a DYNOMITE time!
Be there or be square!!!
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September 24th, 2009
Exercise at Home with Workout Videos /// No Comments ///
By Cheney
Guest Post: Former H3 Guest, Leslie G.
If you’ve spent time at Hilton Head Health, you know the days are filled with opportunities to move.
From the sunrise beach walk to the thermal walk after dinner, it’s easy to find ways to add a few more steps on your pedometer. You can try dozens of fun, new exercise options during your stay, and you’re bound to find something you like – something that you’re likely to pursue when you return home.
But what about that? How do H3 guests keep up the momentum after they’ve left the Island? What if you’ve fallen in love with Latin dance workouts, but there’s no class in your neighborhood? What if you discovered that you love to walk, but the weather keeps you inside more often than not?
For some, exercise videos are the answer. One of the most comprehensive online and mail order sources for videos is Collage Video. If you’ve been through the H3 program, you’ll find Collage Video mentioned in the materials you received at the end of your stay.
I started exercising with workout videos more than 20 years ago, for one very simple reason. I live in Minneapolis and we have long winters. The thought of going for a run (or driving to the gym) when there’s snow and ice all around leaves me, well, cold! Also, I exercise before heading to the office, and exercise videos make it easy to add a workout to my morning routine.
Interestingly enough, Collage Video is also based in Minneapolis. I think they recognized there was a big market right in their own backyard! No need to travel to the Twin Cities to buy, however. You can shop for videos by mail with their catalog, but you’ll also want to check out their website at www.collagevideo.com
Collage Video offers every type of exercise video imaginable – you can search by workout type, fitness level, your goals (weight loss, flexibility, strength) and more. You can search for popular instructors like Jillian Michaels from The Biggest Loser, or Leslie Sansone, the reigning queen of at home walking videos.
The best feature of the Collage Video website is the video player that lets you preview clips from nearly 1000 exercise videos for sale on the site. You can get a real feel for the tempo of the workout before you buy. Too fast (or slow) for your taste? A little too dance-y? You’ll know before you place an order. You can hear the instructor’s voice, and for me, this is key. Are they encouraging, silly, menacing, no-nonsense? You can choose the instructor and workout that will work for you.
Best of all, Collage Video has tapes and DVDs for many of the activities you tried and came to love during your stay at H3 – from aerobics to yoga, and everything in between. Another great feature – “every video on the site has been tested by an ACE-certified instructor and a ‘regular person.’ “They also have a wonderful section called “Success Stories” where you can see photos and read stories from women and men who have lost weight and gotten fit by way of exercise videos.
Can you tell I’m a big fan?! For me, exercising at home is the easiest, most effective way to stay in shape. I’ll be back every so often to review individual workout DVDs, so check back often. Until then, just keep moving!
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September 16th, 2009
Finding Inspiration Through Exercise /// 1 Comment ///
By Cheney
Here at H3, we are gearing up for FIT WEEK 2009!
If you are looking to add variety to your own fitness – this is the perfect week for you to find an activity you LOVE. Because we all know, in order to sustain a healthy lifestyle it has to be enjoyable!
Begin the week by establishing your baseline from which to tailor your own personal fitness agenda, then participate in group activities like dance, kick-boxing, kayaking, biking and many others for which you’ve been craving to explore.
Join H3 Fitness Director, Adam Martin in an atmosphere geared toward finding your personal motivation and inspiration through each physical achievement.
You don’t have to take my word for it…
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September 7th, 2009
Move it Monday /// No Comments ///
By Cheney
Take the H3 Challenge with Fitness Director, Adam Martin!
Post your results in the blog comment section — and you will have the chance to win a H3 Water Bottle! (Winner chosen at random – must post results by Tuesday 9/8 at noon.)
Happy Labor Day!
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September 2nd, 2009
Get Over the Hump /// No Comments ///
By Cheney
You might find that I often talk a lot about adding variety to your fitness, trying something new and most importantly finding something you enjoy doing. Three HUGE factors to keep you on track with your fitness routine.
Not only does your body benefit from pulling a switcheroo with your workout routine - but it also helps mentally. After a while, doing lunge after lunge, bicep curl after bicep curl, gets a little b-o-r-i-n-g.
And unfortunately in most cases, boredom leads to you finding something ‘better’ to do with your time. (Settled on the couch with a bag of chips…) Before you know it, you don’t even remember what a lunge is much less have the energy (or WANT) to do 50.
This is where my ‘hump-day’ motivational video comes in! Here at H3, our Outdoor Boot Camp class is a big hit. But prepared to get your rear in gear!
This simple workout – using only your body weight – can be done anywhere. (Lucky for us – we get sweaty down at the beach!)
100 Push-ups, 150 Crunches, 200 Squats, 250 Jumping Jacks and 500 Meters later…
H3 BOOT CAMP
5 Rounds of:
20 Push-Ups
30 Crunches
40 Squats
50 Jumping Jacks
100 M Run/Walk
If boot camp really isn’t your thing…check out our Sample Schedule to see all the variety you will experience here at H3.
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