With the New Year upon us, so many people are making an effort to get into better shape. And that's a good thing for sure.
For some that means just finally getting off the couch and doing something -- anything to get the body moving. For others it means joining a gym, a group fitness class, a yoga studio, or some other structured group.
But beware, just joining a group doesn't always mean you will get fit, sometimes it can mean you'll open yourself up to getting hurt.
Check this out!
Now at first glance you might think I'm advocating that Yoga is bad!
WRONG!
If you read the article carefully you'll find in many cases you could replace the references and word "yoga" with group exercise, weightlifting, or any host of other fitness choices.
Not all instruction is good instruction. And just because an instructor is popular doesn't necessarily mean that they are good.
There is a difference!
So the the next time you go shopping for a way to get in shape be sure of 3 things:
1.) Start off slow regardless of your chosen interest; at a level you're capable of doing!
2.) Don't confuse popular with good. Make sure the instructor caters the class to the abilities of the various students. Not the other way around.
3.) No matter what you choose, remember your body needs a bit of variety -- stretching, resistance exercise, some type of challenging cardio, and yes, some time to recuperate.
And as the old saying goes, Those that don't make time for health will eventually have to make time for illness.
Choose wisely and Have Some Fun!