Health Check January 2013

Building a Better You!

by Misty Cruse, Director of Marketing and Communications

It's that time of year again. The time we all make our new year's resolutions to lose 10 pounds, eat less chocolate and commit to a regular exercise program. For me personally regular exercise is not necessarily an issue ... eating less chocolate on the other hand ... well, let's just say I never make a resolution I know I can't keep.

So, part of the challenge of keeping those resolutions is staying motivated. It gets a little harder as the year gets into full swing, and we can all identify with life getting in the way. Schedules get hectic and motivation wanes and before we know it, we're saying "what do you mean it's December!"

I thought it would be great to include a few Web sites and blogs that I enjoy. They're packed full of great recipes, fast and easy workouts and TONS of motivation. For example, http://www.jillianmichaels.com offers tips, recipes, workouts and success stories http://www.skinnytaste.com offers great, healthy recipes and healthier versions of your favorites http://www.coolrunning.com offers the Couch to 5K training plan which I personally used several years ago to get started as a runner. I've since ran several 5 and 10K races as well as a half marathon! Which leads me to my next recommendation - http://www.runnersworld.com/. Excellent Web site and magazine packed full of health tips, stay healthy strength training moves and running advice for all running levels.

But these are just a few of my favorites. We'd love to hear yours! Visit our Facebook page and share your favorite workout resources - whether it be DVD's, books, or gyms. We want to encourage women to embrace their health from the inside out and that looks different for everyone.

In the meantime, not everyone has a gym membership in their budget. That's why these programs offered by the Louisville Metro Department of Health and Wellness are so incredible. The Department is offering free and low cost exercise classes at various locations throughout the community. Classes like low impact aerobics, yoga and zumba are all available. For a complete list of locations, visit their Web site at http://www.louisvilleky.gov/Health/News/12-december-exercise.htm.

Just remember, regardless of your preferred form of exercise, whether you're an avid runner, power lifter or power walker, exercise is important. Exercise creates a better you, from the inside out!