Featured Fitness Professional

"If I Can Do It, YOU Can!"

By Crystal Reiber

Fitness does not have to be complicated to reap results. Through my years as a trainer the one thing that is most common to clients who quit is that they become overwhelmed. Overwhelmed with change, portion control, how to exercise, how much sleep to get, and the list goes on and on.

I know you're wondering, "how would she know what it's REALLY like?" Well, I DO know because I've been on the receiving end of fat, out of shape, with little perserverance in fitness. I gained weight after having children, I became depressed over a child's illness and gained more weight, I had chornic headaches, and allergies to more than to that which I wasn't allergic, I've been through hosts of surgeries (you'd scream if I told you how many), and my family medical history is a nightmare.

Upon the eve of my older daughter's senior prom I had my "wake up call". I had a younger daughter yet to graduate and I vowed to see that happen and then some, by golly! So...I researched all types of exercise along with my horrible medical history. What I learned was to take one aspect of fitness that I needed to improve (that was easy...I needed everything!)and implement it. Once it was a habit, like combing my hair, I implemented the next step. No getting overwhelmed with "gotta do it all" mentality.

I recommend most things in moderation. You've heard that before. Well, it's definitely true when improving your fitness level and lifestyle. I chose the physical part of exercise first and once I built some muscle and endurance I already noticed that my food consumption was changing, from there it was to make sure my heart and lungs were working out enough to become stronger and healthier, and so my fitness quest ensued.

The old adage of crawling before one walks and walking before one runs, is very true. No magic needed, no pills, just desire and guidance, step by step toward your goal(s) will get you there. Long term weight loss and condition is best attained by increments...not all at once. That's why the simple approach can work. I became a trainer as a result of my own journey. It took me 47 years to know what I wanted to be when I grew up, but losing 5 sizes and being healthier than ever is more than worth it all. Oh, and I'm ready to run after grandchildren and be a "cool grandma" when that time arrives too.

So, don't catch yourself saying "I can't"....just look to average me "back then" and say, "why if she can do it, why can't I?!" and get going on your fitness quest. You're never alone, because I'm always right here for you.

About the Author:

Crystal Reiber is a Certified Fitness Trainer and Fitness Therapist located in Somerset, PA. She is a sought after motivational speaker and her passion certainly is "crystal clear". Crystal is a product of her own fitness quest. Her website is www.crystalreiber.com