When Fitness is a Lifestyle

How is everyone doing this summer? It sure has been hot here in Colorado! Last month we talked about how our children are getting fatter resulting from a lack of exercise and poor food choices. This month we will look at getting our kid’s off the couch and into some sort of fitness. As well as keeping hydrated.

We want our kids to exercise, but how do we do that. For some, letting their kids play outside is not practical or safe. For others, an organized sport is the way to go. Only you now become the primary driver and your time is rapidly consumed.

The best way we got our kids to exercise was to turn off the television and computer. Yes, the first few days the kids drove us nuts! Soon, they started playing on their fitness balls. Yes, those are the same ones used at health clubs. Next, they were outside in the back yard playing in the sandbox. Now, the kids play four-square with a big group of other kids on our street.

What do you do if you have a child that is not interested in sports? How can you incorporate fitness into their lives? How about taking walks or bike rides with your children? Not only does that improve fitness levels of both you and them, but its great quality time to have. I remember when I was young, my Mom and I would walk around Utah Park in Aurora. That was great quality time! Sometimes we get wrapped up in our own lives, and it’s easier to let our kids and ourselves zone out watching TV. Looking back, I appreciate my Mom spending time with me while exercising.

As some of you may know, I am part owner of Premier Fitness in Arvada. I was thinking of having some exercise classes specifically for kids. Let me know what you think about that idea.

Is your body having drought conditions? Did you know that once you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated? Now more than ever, it is important to make sure you are properly hydrated.

Many people tell me that they do not drink water, but instead a lot of diet soda and coffee. The problem with that is two fold. First, diet soda and coffee have caffeine in them. Caffeine is a diuretic. Which means it can actually deplete the body of more fluid. Secondly, pop and coffee have very little, if any, positive health attributes. Not to mention drinking pop with sugar in it or coffee loaded with sugar and cream ads to your waistline.

The human body is made up of over 90% water. The human brain is over 85% water, muscle 75% water, and even our bones have 20% water content.

So, what are the signs that you may not be drinking enough water?

1. Strong color and dark urine.

2. Dry mouth, nose and throat.

3. Constipation.

4. Muscle cramping.

5. Nausea.

6. Irritability.

7. Dry skin.

How much water should I drink? Many experts disagree on how much water we should drink. If you exercise or spend quite a bit of time outside, then you need to consume more than if you hang out in front of the TV all day.

My recommendation is to ALWAYS have water available. I carry a water bottle with me, so it’s right in front of me. If not, it’s out of sight out of mind. Do not think that if the water does not cost $1.00 a bottle or more, that it’s not good. You can put some tap water in the fridge and fill your bottle up each day. I personally go to Costco and get a case of water. Each bottle is 32oz and costs less than .30 cents. Not too shabby! Try to drink at least 8oz of water per hour; your urine should be pretty clear throughout the day. Pay close attention to when you’re in the water swimming, waterskiing or just hanging out. Your body still sweats even if you do not feel it.

Look Well, Feel Well, Stay Well