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Fitness and HealthWhen it comes to protecting andleveraging your most preciousasset (that amazing body ofyours), which of the followingskills do you have on your side— and which will you put at thetop of your “must do” list?

Skills and Know-How1. I make room in my schedule for daily exercise and healthy eating.

2. I know how to relax and have fun — and I’m capable of takinga break when necessary.

3. I usually choose foods and beverages that support my health.

4. I regularly get enough good sleep.

5. I avoid weight-loss scams, fad diets and fitness gimmicks.

6. I feel confident about my ability to shop for healthy groceriesand to prepare convenient, nourishing meals.

7. I’ve established a balanced and varied workout routine I enjoyand that keeps me fit.

8. I know how to use a heart-rate monitor to support my fitness goals.

9. I actively manage any current health conditions.

10. I know how to manage my stress so that it does not harm me or those around me.

I’ve got Still working Ready to makethis mastered! on it. this a priority.

Take-Action Tips (on your own)

Schedule yourself healthy.Sit down with your calendarfor the next three months andblock out some windows for restand reflection; healthy cooking andeating; exercise and activity; andoutdoor fun time. You might alsoschedule “learning appointments”for health-and-fitness-related read-ing, listening, and skill building.(See the online version of this article for links to recommendedarticles from Experience Life.)

Take some tests. Getting objectiveresults from basic health-screeningevaluations, as well as from cardio-vascular, strength and metabolic fit-ness tests (available at health clubsand sports clinics), can help youestablish appropriate goals and getyou on track toward achieving them.

Sign Yourself Up (workshops/seminars/programs)

Get away from it all.Spend your next long weekend (or vacation) at a health-orientedretreat center, where you can learnabout wellness, assess your ownfitness, rest and restore.

Join a club. Whether a running club,health club, yoga studio, ballroomdancing or group-fitness class,you’ll connect with a culture andcommunity that supports your newmotivations.

Hit the store. Many grocery andgourmet-supply stores offer classeson cooking with whole foods. Graba few schedules, highlight yourfavorite options and book a newedible adventure into your calendareach month.

Hire Some Help(trainer/coach/pro)

Personal trainer:Trainers can help people of all fitness levels find a regimen thatworks for them. Ask about the personal-training and small-grouptraining services offered at yourlocal health club or fitness studio.

Health coach: Trained to supportindividuals in creating new, healthyhabits and in overcoming lifestylechallenges, health coaches (some ofwhom are medical professionals)also assist those with chronic con-ditions that are holding them back.

Health pro: If an injury, illness ormystery symptom is tripping youup, seek advice from a qualifieddoctor, chiropractor, naturopath,nutritionist, mental-health pro orother health expert of your choice. ➺

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