Remember to Pace Yourself

Happy New Year!

Now is the time of year when most have made up their minds that now is the time to make change. If you fit into this category, I commend you on at least thinking that this is your time for betterment and improvement on what ever it may be. All I ask is that you remember to pace yourself. I have seen failure take place way too many times because of two major reasons. One, people forget to set forth an effective and efficient plan to bring about the desired change. Two, people will fail to control the energy of their efforts and will spring out with a ton of energy like that of a sprint to only run out of gas by the middle of February.....if they are lucky.

Why do I share this not so fun fact? Well, this morning I was reminded again of the not so fun reality of what happens to those that set out without a plan or worse yet without control of the gas pedal or brake in relativity to this matter. While warming up to do my own training session this morning, I saw a woman literally pass out while attempting to perform what seemed to be an easy exercise. After all, who can't do a seated leg curl? Well, this is a woman who obviously had overexerted herself and more than likely thought she was doing the right thing at the time. Do not worry, the emergency medical staff arrived and wheeled her out after she woke up from her fainting experience. Certain she was off to visit with medical staff post her exercise experience.

What's my point in discussing this experience with you. Well, one of the procedures I have my clientele complete is that of filling out a (PAR-Q) form. This form contains a series of questions in relativity to their health history and current physical abilities. Why, because sometimes people are not set out to start exercise programs and are in need approval from their physician. Be it reasons due to high blood pressure, pre-existing heart conditions, lung ailments, bone or joint issues etc....many reasons could exist that would recommend specific people avoid specific activity or more yet avoid some all together. Though the desire and will power may be present, I suggest that one does check in with their physician before setting off for to start an exercise program, especially if you have not been on one for some time. Remember, your success is all about setting forth the right plan and the maintenance of the energy systems needed to reach your goal!

Do set your goal, vision what you desire, move forward and attack that of what you want.... but by all means pace yourself and be sure you are on the right track in doing so!

I wish you well and send you my best!

Troy Eichers "Coach T"
http://www.trainingbytroy.net/
troy@trainingbytroy.net

Season's of Change!

Hello and Happy November!



As you turn back the clocks and begin this new month, I hope that you find yourself prepared for the winter months ahead. Be it that I live in Minneapolis, Minnesota, I know that I have obstacles ahead regarding my own training program in my attempt to maintain my level of fitness and wellness. Many of you know what I am talking about. The days are now shorter, the temperatures lower and soon there will be white precipitation falling from the skies. In addition to this, we have a very elongated holiday season that brings with it negative health tendencies of making poor nutritional choices and sitting for endless hours watching weekend after weekend of football. OK, maybe this does not fit you but as I look around this is the case for many.



We in the Midwest love our spring, summer and fall seasons but most of us would rather due without winter. The long commutes, back breaking shoveling of snow, school closings, salt on our cars, well you get the picture. It is part of the year and for some of us, we just fail to put in a plan to prepare for this. On top of this, it is this time of year that seasonal mood affective disorder increases and where levels of activity drop too. Don't get me wrong, I love the seasonal foods that come out at this time of year, but I too have to put in a plan to stay the course.



So, what is my point you may ask. My point is that you should take some time to develop a plan to deal with the duress that comes with the up and coming winter season. Put in place a proactive plan that allows for the longer commutes, school cancellations, holiday parties, snow removal, fattening food offerings from your friends and family. You can do this by putting into play time set aside for going to the gym to attend a workout class, hiking, walking, shoveling, sledding. You can write out your goals for how you would like to choose certain foods and how you will prepare yourself ahead of time before heading to the holiday's parties that will be offering up vast amounts of food and alcohol. On that note, don't forget to have a designated driver or safe ride arranged for you. Thought I would add that too. Plans like these are designed to keep you healthy and happier too for that matter.



If you fail to this road and wonder aimlessly through another winter. I would probably bet that you like many others will be starting off 2009 with a new diet and fitness plan. You will probably also step on the scale and approach the mirror with the words....."how the heck did I gain this many pounds?" Well, how about taking a proactive approach and not becoming one of those people. After all, what did it take for you to attain your fitness goals in 2008? Get a head start and make the most of the next four months. You will be happy that you did.



After all, it would be hard to hibernate for the next four months and not take part in the Midwest winter of 2008!



I wish you the best and hope that you too are healthy, happy and well.

Coach T
One Life, One Body, Your Choice
www.trainingbytroy.net