How to Check Exercise off the List

by Julia McAleer-Forte

Safety: How many of us have seen an exercise or a diet in a magazine or on TV and wanted to try it out for kicks? It’s looks harmless, but how do you know it’s safe? Who wants to limp down the aisle or wince during the bouquet toss because she did something without the guidance of a professional? A personal trainer’s FIRST job is your safety. They ensure that all exercises are within your limits, and they stay focused on reaching your goals.

Cheerleader: In the occasional chaos of planning a wedding, there may be times when you’re so overwhelmed that you just want to throw in the towel. A personal trainer is focused on keeping it reasonable. Not up for running two miles today? No problem. Let’s walk/run for 10 minutes and see how you feel after that. Feel like you’re going to scream if the florist doesn’t call you back? Got it. Let’s stretch and do some yoga. You both know you’ll feel better and your mental outlook will improve after you exercise. Your trainer will supply the much-needed enthusiasm and problem solving to help you feel successful!


Doing the same thing over and over is boring.

Variety: Let’s face it. Doing the same thing over and over is boring. You wouldn’t eat the same exact meal every day for the rest of your life, so how could you stick to a fitness program that was exactly the same day in and day out? Even if you could, muscles adapt to doing the same training, so changing your routine keeps them working at the maximum. Variety can come in many different forms, from using a foam roll or a BOSU ball, to going outside and charging the hills! Not knowing what your trainer is going to pull out of his or her bag of tricks can keep it fresh and exciting!

Accountability: Paying in advance for a designated number of sessions holds you accountable to yourself to “make good” with the time and the commitment it takes to achieve your goals.

Timeout: Give in to an hour for yourself! This hour is yours, and it is completely about you. With fitness training you get a chance to physically challenge yourself, feel better inside and out and look your absolute best on the big day. Regardless of your motivation for working out, it’s ALL ABOUT YOU!
Have fun, and cross it off your list as “done!”

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Julia McAleer-Forte has been offering personal fitness training in Chicago’s finest residences since founding Fitness Forte in 1991. Fitness Forte specializes in designing innovative exercise programs regardless of home equipment. Julia has competed in many team and individual sports, including triathlon. She has cultivated a loyal following, many of whom have been clients for over 12 years.

Visit www.fitnessforte.com

In addition to receiving her degree in Exercise Science (B.S.) from Western Illinois University, she remains committed to her growth by attending training conferences and certification programs through her business membership in IDEA, the leading fitness industry authority. Her latest challenge is a duathlon of sorts, caring for her 2 year old twins!

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