Health & Fitness
Exercise: A Guaranteed Return on Investment
Exercise should be an important part of everyone's lifestyle. In the fitness industry, we face some fierce competition, but you might be surprised to learn of our greatest competitor.
In the fitness industry, as we assess our competition, I would attest that our biggest competitors are not large health clubs, low cost gyms, boutique studios or even the latest fitness craze. Our biggest competition can be found in most every American home: the family room couch. In the wake of our 21st century lifestyles, it's no surprise that many Americans are not meeting the basic activity level recommendations.
As owner of the Glen Ellyn Jazzercise Fitness Center, I often remind our customers that the hardest part of a workout is not when we reach our highest intensity level. The hardest part of a workout is choosing to lace up our tennis shoes and actually make it happen!
With the exception of investing in a good pair of fitness shoes, exercise can be as inexpensive as walking in your neighborhood or for a monthly fee, joining a local gym. If you're just beginning an exercise program, walking is always a great place to start. We are so fortunate in the western suburbs to have destinations such as the Morton Arboretum, the IL Prairie Path and Herrick Lake Forest Preserve that offer ample paths and trails within a beautiful environment.
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If you think it might be difficult to adhere to an exercise program on your own, a group exercise program might be a better option for you. Group exercise can be beneficial because it provides accountability and offers a support network. The camaraderie and encouragement that is shared in a fitness class not only makes exercise more fun but may challenge you to work a little harder! While group fitness classes typically require a fee, there are plenty of options that will meet your budget, personality and fitness goals.
Every hour that we invest in exercise will pay dividends of a healthier lifestyle both now and as we get older. While it may require both a time and financial commitment, I believe it is more rewarding to invest the time and money now to improve our quality of life than to have to spend the time and money later in doctors visits and medicine to sustain a quality of life. The days are longer and warmer weather is around the corner - let's get off the couch!
