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Sports

Step in Right Direction

It doesn't take much to get started on a fitness program. An easy way to begin is with a simple walk.

Like so many others, Se-Ryong Russell had tried just about everything to lose weight: Jenny Craig, Weight Watchers, Nutrisystem and more. She would lose some weight here and there, but she would always regain it. She realized her family was developing some unhealthy habits, and she knew something had to change. Her own health was suffering, and she felt her confidence and self-worth deteriorating.

I told Se-Ryong about the Largest Loser contest at Anytime Fitness in Gig Harbor, and she immediately jumped at the opportunity. The six-week contest was just the kick-start she and her family needed.

As one of the personal trainers at Anytime Fitness, I had all kinds of suggestions for her for workouts and nutritional advice. However, she did two things to get started: she cut back on the fast food that she and her family used to eat regularly, and she walked. “I used to be a regular at McDonald’s and Blue Cannon Pizza,” she told me. “Now we are eating at home more, or if we do go out, I’ll have a side salad instead of a side of fries.” Her 20-pound weight loss earned her the $350 grand prize in the contest, which ended at the beginning of April, and she has lost 4 more pounds since then.

We recently had one of those really spectacular Pacific Northwest days, where the sun was shining and everyone goes, “That’s right. THIS is why I live here.” After a long stretch of overcast and wet weather I felt a little like a mole as I stepped outside and had to squint against the sunlight. It made me think what a perfect time this is to start a fitness program! I realize that with all the information out there on nutrition and fitness it can be a bit overwhelming to know where to start. Try this: put your shoes on. Go for a walk. Take a friend or family member with you, or go by yourself. The beauty of this area we live in cannot be matched, in my opinion.

In Gig Harbor, the waterfront offers a relatively flat stretch of sidewalk and plenty of shops to browse after your walk. Check out Ruston Way and the waterfront in downtown Tacoma. Step out your front door and start walking; that works too! Se-Ryong wanted a bit more of a challenge so she walks Peacock Hill in Gig Harbor. I will also suggest Chambers Bay Golf Course for those who want to really work the hills.

My plan is to continue to give you suggestions each week for things you can do at home or outside to get back in shape. If you are ready to get involved in a gym or hire a personal trainer, that’s great! All you need to do is take the first step, literally. It’s time to put aside all the excuses and just move. By the way, it’s not only Se-Ryong Russell who has reaped the benefits of her new exercise routine. Her husband has lost 30 pounds and her children are now exercising with her! Thanks for being an inspiration, Se-Ryong!

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