Many of the fitness programs advertised on television can be used safely—by some people. Those people are most likely to be young, strong and relatively free of physical limitations, injuries or recurring “problem” areas such as knees or shoulders. If that doesn’t describe you, then you should probably refrain from making that toll-free call or logging on to that Web site, no matter how enticed you feel by the next pitch you hear.
Some of the most heavily advertised fitness programs are designed to be high intensity. While for some population groups this is exactly what is needed for the quickest and most visible progress—building muscle mass, for instance—high intensity also can mean higher chance of injury. This is true whether you are considering high-intensity interval training, high resistance with weights or bands, or pounding the floor with high-impact dance moves.
While some television-promoted routines can theoretically be adapted for individuals who want lower-intensity workouts, your best bet, by far, for getting safely into shape is to consult us. We work with you one-on-one, as no television pitchman can, to design a customized program to help you meet your fitness goals.
A controlled, gradual, progressive exercise program is the key. We will help you set reasonable goals for steps walked or laps swum, for instance, and you will see how far you have come between week one and week 10. We can help you understand the difference between soreness and pain as you (literally) work out kinks if you haven’t exercised in a while. If you want to build strength, we will show you how to use the right equipment safely.
Whether your goal is increased fitness, weight loss, diabetes management, fall prevention or any other target in which physical activity plays a role, we will help you strengthen your muscles and exercise safely—even if we don’t have a bevy of energetic back-up dancers to help us.
