KIM SPRINGER: Sports add fun to workout

Preaching the importance of exercise and proper diet is part of our daily job.

The motivating factor for most people to continue on with their regular exercise program is the promise that they will feel and look better. Most importantly, they will live longer enjoying improved health due to their hard work.

The reality is most people do not appreciate their health until they start to lose it. As a trainer, I am then faced with the challenge of finding an instant "pay off" for my clients hard work in the gym. Yes, they are stronger and more fit but how can they use that in their daily life?

Finding an activity outside the gym gives all those hours of weight lifting and stair climbing a purpose. Take for example, one of our clients, "Jane."

Jane has worked out for more than three years, three times a week but hasn't picked up a tennis racquet in more than 20 years. By introducing tennis back into Jane's life, we rekindled a love for a sport she thought she would never play again and also showed her that all those hours working out have paid off.

Jane is now playing tennis four to five times a week on top of her regular workouts. By adding tennis back into her life, she is now more active and has a direct outlet for her stronger, healthier body. The tennis also feeds back into the workout.

Jumping rope, punching mitts and footwork drills are now part of her regular exercise program and we are able to push her farther than we would have without tennis.

The sport or activity you choose is not important. The key is to find something you enjoy that allows you to "test" your body. Although we know we are getting stronger by lifting weights, what in our daily life regularly tests this theory? Choose a sport that will challenge your body and will make you push yourself farther in your workout program.

Besides adding an additional activity to your lifestyle, sports adds an often needed "fun factor." Working out and lifting weights is great for the mind and body but can also be tedious and boring. Adding an outside activity to your weekly routine might shine some light on exercise for those that dread it.

Sports pushes you to not only compete against yourself but also others. There is a small satisfaction in knowing that you are improving and there is no better feeling than being able to beat that once unbeatable opponent.

The only downfall that comes along with sports is the increased risk of injury. However, if you are working out properly and also getting instruction for your sport, potential injuries will be kept to a minimum.

If you have exercised consistently for years but are searching for a way to round out your program, playing sports might be just what you need.

Whether it is softball, tennis or even bowling, choose something that will get you moving but also give you motivation to get stronger and faster.

Exercise is not just for the gym so look at your world and lifestyle and see what element is missing to help you feel more well-rounded in exercise and life.

Kim Springer and her husband, Mike, are Certified Personal Trainers and owners of Springer Training. They can be reached at 233-9442 or at their Web site www.springertraining.com.