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Ramona Trainer: Be consistent in workouts

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So with all the types of workout plans and exercise programs out there, DVD workouts, CrossFit, yoga, Pilates, bootcamps, which one is the right one for you? I’ll tell you what I’m fed up with — people saying that there’s only one way to exercise.

What is the number one exercise that’s right for you? The exercise that’s right for you and the workout program that is right for you is the workout program you enjoy most and that you’re most likely to stick to. It could be weightlifting, CrossFit, insanity, step aerobics or even Jazzercise.

What matters most is what matters most to you. So if you love to lift, you love Pilates, or hot yoga, or step classes or kettle bell workouts, awesome. Now within that we still must have three important components. Those three components are consistency, accountability, and variability.

No matter what program you do, in order to get results, either physically, mentally, or healthwise, you must be consistent with it. A one or two day a week workout plan won’t create much in terms of results. It may be good for the short-term and releasing endorphins and help you feel good. But if your goal is to tone your muscles, reduce adipose or body fat tissue, gain lean body mass or increase your bone density, you must have a significant level of consistency.

The next component no matter what exercise routine that you do is you must have a level of accountability. I have been working out since I was 11. That’s going on on 28 years. I still need accountability. I create this accountability through a workout partner. Yes, I can go it alone, but even for myself, a physique competitor and gym owner, I still need accountability. I do this through a workout partner. There are many levels of personal coaching and personal training. They can be one on one, semi-private, small group, or large group format. All of these help you create accountability by having a coach and comrade within a group. I encourage you to find accountability in whatever path of fitness you take.

The last component you need in whatever program you decide to follow is variability. Our bodies are uniquely and wonderfully made. They have an uncanny ability to adapt and adjust to whatever we are doing. In your workout routine you must find variability in frequency, intensity, duration, and type. You can educate yourself on how to vary your workouts or, better yet, find some professional help.

So, yes, I’m fed up with those who say this is the only way to work out. They are wrong. Whatever gets you going, whatever gets you to do it is the way to work out. But within those parameters you must include these three variables: consistency, accountability and variability.

Peter San Nicolas, a Ramona resident, owns Ramona Fitness Center. He may be contacted at 760-789-3500.

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