Great (perhaps obvious) tips by the "For Dummies" series: Mastering Gym Etiquette - For Dummies.
My favorite tip: When you've removed a weight plate from a bar or when you finish using a pair of dumbbells, return the weights to their designated spot on the rack. Never leave dumbbells or barbells on the floor when you're finished using them. Someone may trip on the weights.
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Ok, I don't anymore, but I used to. Years ago just the thought of working out made me tired. After taking care of the kids all day and cooking and cleaning and all the other stuff I had to do, the last thing I wanted to do was go to the gym. My energy hit an all-time low and I was feeling depressed. I knew that exercise would help, but I just didn't know how to get motivated. At a conference I heard some advice that for me would be life-changing. If you like music, only listen to it at the gym. Books on tape? Only listen to it at the gym. TV? Only watch it while your at the gym. It could even work for a favorite game you like to play on your phone. It seemed so simple so I tried it, and you know what? It worked. I downloaded some really great songs and only allowed myself to listen to it at the Y. Pretty soon I was also addicted to the feeling I had on days I worked out. (The few hours of free childwatch didn't hurt either!) What could be your motivation?
We all know that kids who are active are healthier than those that are sedentary. However, due to budget cuts, many physical fitness programs in schools are being cut leaving it up to the parents to help get their children moving after school. The local Zoomers Running Club is finishing up a Youth Fun Run Series for kids where kids met up once a week for 5 weeks by the North Port YMCA to run one-mile. After their last run they will have a pool party! All for only $5!
Before getting your child in any physical fitness program, make sure to consult their pediatrician. Also make sure they are wearing good quality running shoes that fit properly and encourage them to stretch properly before and after their run. If you are also a runner, this can be a great opportunity for you and your child to bond!
-Jeannine Borasch, MS in Exercise Science & Health Promotion
From my personal experience, music makes a huge difference in how hard I exercise. During my daily run, I start to lose momentum around mile two and that's when I need to hear something good. After I've flipped through what seems like a zillion songs, I find a newer one that gets me going and I get instantly energized. No doubt it's totally mental because I haven't changed anything physically. But it really does work. Even the pause in between songs gets me tired. Perhaps it's because I can hear myself breathing and I remember how hard I'm working. Is the brain that easily tricked? Does music make a difference in how hard you exercise?
-Jeannine Borasch, MS in Exercise Science & Health Promotion
