When making lifestyle changes people go through distinct, predictable stages. Knowing the different stages and identifying which one you are in will help you understand if you are ready to start a weight loss program or what changes you need to make before starting a program. The success of a weight loss program relies mostly on your readiness and commitment level. Consulting with a professional fitness trainer can help you to decide if it is a good time for you to start a program. A qualified fitness professional will know the right questions to ask in order to find out how ready you are to make the lifestyle changes needed to achieve your fitness goals. The stages of change model suggests that people go through five distinct phases of change. The process of change in not linear; you may move back and forth between stages depending on life circumstances. The fist phase of PRECONTEMPLATION is when you may be aware that you need to make changes but are not planning to do so in the near future (not a good time to hire a trainer). The CONTEMPLATION phase is when you begin to weigh the costs and benefits of lifestyle change. This stage may go on for months or years, wavering between approaching readiness and distancing yourself from it. (not a good time to hire a trainer) If you have decided to make a change within the next month you are in the PREPARATION phase (good time to meet with a trainer). If you are in the ACTION phase, you are in the process of changing your behavior. You may be on a diet and exercising regularly (great time to be working with a trainer). The last phase is MAINTENANCE. This is when you have achieved and maintained successful lifestyle changes and are capable of preventing slips or relapses (only need an occasional meeting with a trainer to keep routines fresh).
If you have fitness goals and find yourself in the preparation or action phase, it would be beneficial to consult with a trainer. The benefits of working with a trainer are many. A trainer can determine how many calories a day you need to consume to achieve your goals and how hard you need to work to get to your goals through the administration of certain fitness tests. A trainer will ensure that you are using proper form and intensity and is a great source on accountability. If you would like to consult with a fitness professional, please contact me, Erin Graham at erin@eringrahamfitness.com and visit my web site at www.eringrahamfitness.com
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