Instead of feeling ashamed about past health experiences, be curious and learn from your “past you.” Instead of making grand “wishes” for 2020 — broad unrealistic claims divorced from growth, reflection, and reality — make intelligent, realistic GOALS. For many, the New Year — the demarcation of a “new beginning” — is motivating. If this is true for you, GREAT! Capitalize on the surge of motivation. Since the New Year is now, it is as good a time as any to make a health goal. As my mother taught me, don’t put off ‘til tomorrow what you can do today.

Today, a break from my recent “How to use X” series to focus on (drum roll please…) nutrition! Why? After over 15 years in the fitness field, I know one thing for certain: Unless you have impeccable genetics and are in your prime, training alone will not ensure you reach your fitness goals! Here and in the next blog I will outline 10 simple tips for healthy, nutritious eating.

Recently I have been writing a series of “How to use X” blogs where I break down how to use various pieces of equipment from free weights to the treadmill to the Bosu to the kettlebell. I know what you are thinking: “Are there exercises that I should always do, regardless of the piece of equipment I am using?”

Excellent question! The answer is, “Yeppers peppers. 100%!" There are 4 types of exercises that I consider non-negotiables: squats, balance exercises, multi-directional motions, and intervals.

Recently I have been writing a “How to use X” series of blogs. I have covered everything from how to use equipment such as the foam roller and the bike and how to set-up a home gym.

Today we discuss the “how to–ness” of enacting that knowledge to achieve your fitness goals — specifically your fat and weight loss goals.

So far my “How to use X” series has focussed on how to use various pieces of fitness equipment — from the treadmill to free weights.

Today … drum roll please … the “how to” of creating YOUR perfect home gym!

Notice the emphasis on the word your!

The summer is coming to an end (small tear). Real life is about to begin again and, let’s be honest, times of transition can be challenging, especially when it comes to “staying on the health horse”!

If you find yourself thinking “transitioning back to reality is stressful and busy; I will get back on my horse in September,” tell yourself two things...

So far in this “How to use X” series I have covered everything from cardio staples, such as the bike and the treadmill, to strength staples, such as dumbbells.

Today … the kettlebell!

Don’t be fooled by the Bosu’s bright blue squishy dome-like exterior; it is not a children’s bouncy toy or a ginormous whoopee cushion! The Bosu is a multi-faceted, medium-sized piece of exercise equipment; incorporate it into your cardio warm-up, use it to spice up traditional weight exercises such as squats or lunges, or use it to breathe new life into your core routine.

So far in my “How to use X” series I have tackled everything from how to use the treadmill to how to use cables.

I have — until now — shied away from a column on the “all-in-one gym.” Why?

Recently I have been writing a series of “How to use X’ blogs, covering how to use everything from cardio machines such as the elliptical and the treadmill, to free weights, to small pieces such as the stability ball and foam roller. I even broke down how to properly warm-up and cool-down. By now you are all glorified exercise mavens — or at least on your way there!

What have we not talked about thus far? Larger pieces of workout equipment such as cable machines or full home gym equipment. Today we fill the void.