Many Types of Families

A family is one of the most important pieces of a successful fitness program.  Deciding to change the way you think about food and exercise is where the journey starts.  Having a support system who can go through the journey with you is just as important.  You need someone to share in your excitement when you reach your goals and talk through the challenges you will face.  Some may be lucky to have a built in support system at home who are there during the ups and downs.  Others may not be as lucky.  This post is going to outline four non-traditional families you can lean on during your journey.

1.  Friends like Family - You may choose to start your journey with a friend.  The two of you can plan times to meet up for some exercise or get together to cook healthy meals.  A friend who has committed to the same lifestyle change is the perfect person to share the joys and challenges you will come upon throughout your journey. 

2. Gym Family - Did you decided to join a gym, but no one in your life would take the plunge with you?  No worries!  You will have a gym full of others just like you!  Attend a group exercise class and after a few classes you will find others who enjoy the same class.  Or join a personal training group.  Ask a trainer to group you with others at a similar fitness level.  You will become fast friends as your trainer is making you sweat!

3. Work Family - Do you find yourself chatting with your co-workers at lunch about how you want to start exercising?  Why not get a group together during your lunch hour to take a walk around the building?  Make it an office challenge.  See who can get out and walk at least 3 times a week.  After a month, those who completed the challenge celebrate with a lunchtime potluck where everyone brings in a healthy dish to share.  Don't forget to bring a recipe card for everyone!

4. Online Family - With the internet craze, you will be amazed at how many websites are out there for those who are looking for a support system.  A few of my favorites are www.sparkpeople.com, www.jillianmichaels.com, and www.livestrong.com.  Here you will find others who are at all different stages of their weight loss journeys.  You will be amazed at what you will learn from people all over the world.  You may even find a new fitness buddy who lives in the same town as you!

Just remember that there is always someone out there who is going through a similar journey as yourself.  You just need to find them!  Good luck finding your "fitness" family!