Exercise and Nutrition Work Every Time

By Carlos J. Berio, PT, DPT, MS, CSCS

Millions of Americans struggle with weight issues. These problems range from just a little too much belly fat to obesity that has a profound impact on our way of life. We are here to tell you that not only can we regain the shape and condition that we strive for, but that it's done every day by people like you.

Regular exercise is no longer an option. We can decrease our total body weight, improve our body fat percentage and decrease our waistline with even modest changes in our activity levels. From a health perspective we can improve our heart health, decrease our cholesterol and decrease our blood pressure just to name a few benefits. Add proper nutrition to the mix and the benefits to your overall health are boundless. A diet high in lean protein, complex carbohydrates and low in excess fats and sugars is a great start.

In fact, one would be hard pressed to find an ailment or disease that couldn't be improved or completely eliminated by a program of regular exercise and proper nutrition.

As a physical therapist and long time fitness pro, I have developed a neat little library of fun terms, phrases and clichs that we, as a staff, use from time to time to motivate our clients and patients. You may already know some of the oldies but goodies like, “No pain, no gain” or “You are what you eat”.

However, one of my all-time favorites goes like this

“Regular exercise and eating right are like Novocain each works every single time if you just give it a shot!”

While it's a clever saying, it has inspired thousands of people to reach for and attain their highest physical potential. Sadly this phrase reflects the difficulty most people have in giving proper nutrition and regular exercise a fighting chance.

I urge you and those around you to give it a “shot”. Take a good hard look at what you are doing now and dial it up for 8 full weeks. That's long enough to see some very significant gains and hopefully propel you into the next level of real health and wellness.

Don't quit. Don't stop.

No matter what Sick? Feeling down? Tired? No excuses! Give this thing your best honest effort and accept all of the rewards.