Be Well - Prioritize Exercise

Lifting weights is just one of many
ways you can get in great shape.

By Sara Grassmeyer
Wellness Coordinator

What are your top 10 priorities? When was the last time you wrote down everything that is important to you and how they rank? Go ahead and take a few minutes to list out your top 10 priorities.

Now that you have your list, write down how much time you spend each week working towards your priorities.

Are you surprised by anything? Are you surprised by the length of time that you spend on something that is not one of your top 10 priorities? Keep your list and post it somewhere only you can see it. Refer back to it often to remind yourself of what’s most important to you and the ratio of time you spend doing these things versus things that don’t intrinsically matter.

As we approach the end of this month (New Year's Resolution Month), I think it’s important to set the standard for healthy lifestyle modifications. For me, exercise is one of my very top priorities and I make sure that every week I look at my calendar and block out plenty of time to get in my workout. When I make time for exercise, I am not rushing to squeeze in a workout and I’m not skipping a workout because my day ran out of time. Rather I am able to enjoy my block of time and really exercise to my full capabilities. I know that we are an extremely busy society, but I also know that our time will be of higher quality if we treat exercise with the importance it deserves.

Here’s what my next week looks like: 

• Sunday-            Long Run, 9-10a
• Monday-          Moderate Run, 7-8a
• Tuesday-          Step Aerobics, 6:15-7a, Zumba 5:15-6p
• Wednesday-    Moderate Run/Kickbox/Lift Weights, 11a-12p
• Thursday-        Step Interval, 6:15-7a
• Friday-             Yoga, 5-6p
• Saturday-         *rest* 

So, get on it. Look at your calendar and write down what you will be doing for exercise every day next week. Remember, rest is important in an exercise program, too. Make sure to write down how long, what time and what type of exercise you plan to do. If you’re comfortable, share your ideas with me. I would love to see how we are all working towards a healthier lifestyle.

Sara Grassmeyer, MPH, is the Wellness Program Coordinator for Porter County Parks and Recreation. She leads a variety of wellness programs at Sunset Hill Farm County Park. To learn more, contact her at 219-707-8281, or e-mail sgrassmeyer@porterco.org.