The Greatest Loser: Behavior modification

June 18, 2008 06:07 pm

—
To keep up with the progress of the Greatest Loser participants, click the following link to visit their blog: The Greatest Loser blog

The challenge when it comes to fitness is closing the gap between knowing and doing.
That was the central theme Tuesday when Dr. Jean Hobbs — a kinesiology instructor at Missouri Southern State University — spoke to the 12 members of the Joplin Family Y’s Greatest Loser program on Tuesday.
She stressed several points for participants to keep in mind while making the necessary lifestyle changes that will help them achieve their fitness goals.
1. You have to choose to change.
One way to make to make healthy choices easier, Hobbs said, is to have fun.
“You have to have joy,” she said. “It has to be enjoyable.”
2. Choose to change with everlasting perspective.
When life changes come along, consider how your exercise routines will fit in.
“You need to do a personal time study,” Hobbs said. “See what your blocks of time look like and break it down. Find some time for yourself that is convenient and plug in some physical activity.”
3. Choose to change from the inside out.
Breaking bad habits is an intrinsic thing. “It all starts here,” she said, pointing to her temples.
One way to help is to recognize the benefits that come from exercise, such as better sleep, better mood and a sense of accomplishment.
4. Choose to change when the tests and trials come.
“You’re going to find yourself in those circumstances of live that make you want to stop,” said Hobbs. “When you’re in those circumstances, take time for yourself.”
5. Choose to change even after you fall.
Guilt can be an impediment, but there’s nothing wrong with starting over.
“Give yourself a little grace,” she said. “The sooner you get back up, the sooner you get back on that track.