Get In Shape For '08

SEBRING - Losing weight and getting fit are among the most common New Year's resolutions, and setting realistic goals and developing an exercise routine are key to making them last.

Cherie Starr, manager of Florida Hospital Fitness Center, said gym membership usually increases significantly after the first of the year, but many of the people don't stick with it.

"Sometimes people overextend their goals, and they get frustrated when they can't reach them," Starr said. "It's much better to lose a little at a time and set goals that are attainable."

She said a good workout combines cardiovascular activity and weight lifting.

"The important thing is getting your heart rate up," Starr said. "Monitor your heart rate, get it up and keep it up."

Vonita Morrell, of Avon Park, said she works out with dumbbells and then walks on the treadmill.
"I hate exercise, but I know if I don't come, I don't feel as good, so I stiffen up and come three times a week," Morrell said.

Jane Goodlett, strength trainer at Highlands County Family YMCA, said working out with a group or taking a class can help motivate people who don't enjoy exercise.

"You aren't going to work out nearly as hard at home," Goodlett said. "You have a lot more fun with people around and you work harder too."

Most group exercise classes start at a basic level for beginners, and the more experienced participants can increase the intensity.

"The classes can be adjusted for every fitness level," Goodlett said.

Jack Hyde, of Sebring, travels with a group to Florida Hospital fitness centers three times a week.
"There are four of us who come together," Hyde said. "That way if one of us says they don't want to go, the others can talk them into going."

June Scherlacher said having a support group has helped her lose 40 pounds over the past 14 years. She is the weight recorder for the local chapter of Taking Off Pounds Sensibly, a weight loss support group.

Scherlacher said the group's members share ideas for cutting calories in their diets, like sprinkling Bacon Bits on scrambled eggs instead of eating strips of bacon.

Fitness is a big component of weight loss for the TOPS group, and Scherlacher said many people trying to lose weight may have to start with small goals.

"Anything that gets you moving helps with weight loss," Scherlacher said. "Start by walking out to the mailbox and back, then next week, walk a little ways down the sidewalk. Gradually you add a little more and soon you have a longer route. The most important thing is taking that first step."