Welcome to BRICKS’ Weekly Fitness Facts! Each week, I will be providing you with exercise, nutrition and health information to help you reach your fitness goals. In our introductory installment of Fitness Facts, I thought the most appropriate advice I could give would be tips to get you started in your new fitness class!
1. Be Patient. Every goal worth reaching is worth the time to do it right. Your fitness and health goals are no different. Fad diets and drastic exercise programs may produce short-term gains, but inevitably lead to disappointing and often dangerous results. Give yourself permission to take “baby steps”. Be kind to yourself. Recognize and reward progress, no matter how slow or small. Before you know it, you will be reaping the benefits of your hard work. You will look great, feel great and be on the way to a lifetime of healthier habits.
2. Be Safe. Any fitness regimen has potential for injury. Improper punching and kicking technique is at best, ineffective, and at worst, dangerous. Listen and learn proper form. Practice caution and prudence, especially in the early stages of your training. Injury or burnout will derail your hard earned gains and keep you from participating while you heal.
3. Ask Questions. Your instructor is there to guide and assist you in your commitment to a healthier life. Do not hesitate to ask any questions about your training. If you feel you need additional help with technique, ASK. Schedule time before or after class for individual assistance. Sometimes minor adjustments in body mechanics avoid injury and produce surprising leaps in progress.
4. Have Fun! You will quickly find that the mental benefits of this class are at least as tangible as the physical. You will reduce stress, increase energy, and enjoy the support and encouragement of your classmates. View your exercise time as that break in the day you’ve earned … listen to the music, smile, and tear it up!
Denise Rejent-LeeBRICKS Kickboxing
