Our Ask An Angel correspondent is Arlene Petersen, Certified Senior Advisor and Life Care Navigation Specialist in the area of senior home care.
Q. I really need to stay fit! I see all types of classes in my community, but quite frankly I am a little self-conscious about trying them out. I have good intentions, but never make it to the class. How can I get motivated enough to attend one?
A. Yeah to you for a healthy self-assessment about your physical fitness! Before you begin any new fitness program, make sure you receive an A-OK from your doctor. Next, it is a matter of finding a fitness program or activity that is fun and rewarding for you to participate in. But letâs back up for a moment and tackle the challenge of how to get motivated and stay that way. A great way to get motivated is to get an exercise buddy. An exercise buddy not only brings encouragement and motivation to getting involved with fitness, but it brings along socialization as well as accountability. That is a great first step to any exercise program. Next, you can set a fitness goal. Setting a goal might be intimidating but it will help you get going, especially if you share it with your buddy. Focus on what you can do and not your limitations. Sometimes we put off starting a fitness program with our âexcusesâ that point to what we canât do vs. what we can. Perhaps you might start with a walk in your community, or swimming a few laps at the pool. Whatever it is, make it attainable so that you do not become discouraged. Once a goal is in place, set up a check-in system where you can connect with your buddy to see if you actually accomplished your goal. Notice I suggested a simple walk as a good first step. Once you become comfortable with that, you might want to sign up for a class in your community. Make it a gradual process. Whatever you do, make sure you enjoy the activity you are participating in. Have fun! And donât compare yourself with anyone else. Everyone is at a different level when it comes to fitness. Start slow and youâll see your strength improving as well as many other benefits!
Have a question for our angel correspondent? You can send our angel an email to apetersen@visitingangels.com or send your question via mail to Ask An Angel, 65 Woodbury St., South Elgin, IL 60177.
