This blog should probably be placed under my Product Reviews category but I'm writing it here so I can be subjective and include my opinion.  Maybe I'll move it later....

I keep getting asked about Skechers and the other toning shoes.  You know the ones - Joe Montana is a paid spokesperson for one of them.

Should I buy a pair?

How often should I wear them?

How far should I walk?

When will I start seeing results?

Which are better - Reebok, MBT, or Skechers?

Folks, my answer hasn't changed from the first time I saw the commercial on TV.

Let's see...how can I write this delicately enough that I don't offend anyone?  Um.....DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY!  These shoes cost between $100 - $245.  Crazy for something that doesn't live up to its claims!!!!  I mean for less than that, you could hire a fitness trainer for about 4 hours,  see positive results, and learn about creating a new, healthier lifestyle.  Or you could sign up for 3 months of online fitness and nutrition coaching and again, see positive results and learn about creating a new, healthier lifestyle!  Remember the adage - teach a man to fish.....?

Do you really believe that by simply wearing a pair of these expensive shoes you are going to tone your butt or burn more calories?

My intent is not to market here.  Sorry.  I'll get off my soapbox too.  Just the facts.  Simply stated, Reebok, Nike, and MBT conducted their own studies.  Or in other words, there was no system of checks and balances.  Their studies were NOT peer-reviewed, which is common practice if you want the results of your studies to be accepted as valid.  Read more details in the American Council on Exercise research study.

I'm excited to announce that I am now offering Fitness Consulting for individuals or small groups, especially to those who are following a specific nutrition plan to lose weight. Fitness and nutrition are two components of a healthy lifestyle, and learning more about each will help you to meet your goals and lead a happier life.

This interactive discussion focuses on strategies to help you start an exercise regimen or to break through plateaus.  A lot of people have never exercised, or it has been many, many years. They need direction to get started in a safe way to avoid injury. Others go to the gym day after day, week after week, and never see results.  They are bored with their exercises, and losing interest in working out. Through this service, I suggest new behaviors that can be implemented on your own while exercising at home or in the gym.

Different types of exercises are defined, and the benefits of each are discussed.  Sample exercises are also demonstrated.

Nutrition guidance can be included.  Contact me now to learn more or to schedule your first consultation!

Ok - time for a reality check.

Remember about 6 1/2 months ago when you said with conviction that you were going to:

LOSE 20 LBS.

EXERCISE 5X WEEK

CUT BACK ON FAST FOOD

CUT BACK ON SODA

How's that going for you?

If you haven't reached your goal, don't despair.  If you haven't even started yet, don't despair.  You can still do it.  But how?

1.  Write it down.  Put a copy of it on your desk.  Another in your car.  On your refrigerator.  In your pantry.  In the freezer near the ice cream.

2.  Create a realistic plan.  How are you going to accomplish this?

3.  Identify potential obstacles.  How are you going to overcome them?

4.  Set mini-milestones to help you reach your end goal.

5.  Identify your rewards.  How will you celebrate when you lose the first 10 lb.?  Go shopping?  Get a massage?

6.  Tell your family and friends about it so they will support you.

7.  Ask for help from a professional for nutrition, fitness, wellness, etc.  An hour consultation will pay for itself many times over.

You CAN do this.  Don't let anyone get in your way!