Fitness Tips from Hot Pants – No Resolution Needed

Do I dare say that I'm in better shape now than when I was in my 20s and 30s? You bet! In fact, I'm stronger and healthier than I've ever been and it's not from a New Year's resolution.  Those never work for me. I give all the credit to my wife - for encouraging me (dragging me) to go to a personal trainer when I turned 40. I wasn't in terrible shape, but suffered from the "my back is out for no reason" syndrome often.

Since 2006,  I've trained on and off with Scotty Murphy at Advanced Fitness Solutions in Kennewick. Why a trainer? Well, I need someone to kick my butt when I don't feel like exercising - plus, he's not cheap and that motivates me. I figure an investment in my health now will allow me to work longer and play with my future grand kids!

I've also been practicing Bikram Yoga once a week since 2008. Have you ever been? Bikram Yoga has dramatically improved my overall health.  Check out Bikram Yoga Tri-Cities and take the challenge. Try it for 30 days - I guarantee you'll feel and look better. The biggest challenge in the beginning is staying in the room. It's very warm! You'll be surprised at how many of your friends already go.

In between training and yoga I try and jog 3 - 5 miles a week.

It's not easy to carve out time to do these things - we have two boys ages 13 and 17,  work full time, and attend other activities.  So if your life if busy you'll have to be flexible (no pun intended). You just gotta do it - put it on the schedule and stay consistent.

The result? I sleep better, my back is strong, I have more energy, I eat what I want, I'm low on stress, I'm happier, and my wife pays more attention to me...if you get my drift.