One of the most effective methods of achieving and adhering
to a fitness lifestyle is to exercise with a friend or loved one — everyone
benefits. And, if you have already integrated health and fitness into your life
consistently, it might be time to introduce those benefits to your friends and
loved ones by becoming a fitness ambassador.
Therefore, featured this week are nine great encouragement
strategies to help you encourage someone you care about to join your fantastic
health and fitness journey. As always, prior to beginning any exercise program,
please consult your physician.
1. Assuming you have embraced a healthy, fit lifestyle,
think of five friends you know who have not. Ask one of them out for coffee one
day after your workout and encourage them to join you next time. If they are
reluctant, most health clubs and fitness studios offer a complimentary class
session or at least the opportunity to observe a class for newcomers. Check out
the policy and then, if they are willing, bring them along. A fitness
assessment may be required prior to attendance, so determine what the process
is prior to inviting them to join you. Be informed and keep it simple.
2. Many times what deters someone from pursuing an exercise
program is walking through the door alone. With you as their fitness ambassador,
many of those fears may dissipate.
3. Encourage them to begin slowly — assuring them that, after
the first few workouts, there will be less of a learning curve creating a more
enjoyable experience. Even if you are not attending a fitness class or personal
training session, introducing them to an outdoor walking, cycling or hiking
program might be just the ticket to begin addressing their health and fitness
needs.
4. If they have significant physical limitations and your
program is a bit too strenuous for them, then help them to seek out a
qualified, certified and experienced personal trainer who is an expert at
working with those with similar limitations to design a personal training
program specifically addressing their needs.
5. Once you get them in the door, and they are progressing
well, then contact friend number two and proceed from there. Many facilities
offer referral programs — the more friends and family that you refer, the more
“club points” you accumulate — another win-win.
6. If your new recruit falls off track, do not give up on
them. Relapses happen to just about everyone. Therefore, just keep encouraging
them, using positive motivation techniques and, in most cases, they will get
back on track with you.
7. Set up plan B, C and D so that when life happens — and it
will — there is an alternative plan in place. Agree upon it together and be
accountable to one another.
8. Keep the workouts varied by choosing different classes,
different programs or just different workout formats and locations to keep the
program fresh and your results outstanding. This is critical for safety and effectiveness,
but it also prevents boredom and burnout leading to potential exercise drop
out.
9. As a fitness ambassador, you are in a unique position to
encourage community participation in health and fitness-oriented lifestyles. Share
your enthusiasm and experience — one person does make a difference.
Jackie Wright is the
owner/manager of Mountain Life Fitness, LLC located in Granby, Colorado. She
may be reached at her website at www.mtnlifefitness.com
and her email at jackie@mtnlifefitness.com.