The Oaks at Ojai
The good news is that more Americas are exercising than ever before. We’re skating, skiing, swimming and my all-time favorite, walking by the thousands. Today, most of us try to get some exercise at least once a week and say we’d like to do more. This is great news because, let’s be honest, more Americans are carrying more unwanted body fat than ever before, too.

Winter and early spring often seem the time when we nestled in, hibernate and hang out in front of the fire with a good book. The fitness center is a cold drive away and the hike through the neighborhood feels as appealing as admitting to that nice police officer that you were speeding. Yet, winter is one of the best times of year to begin a fitness program and lose unwanted body weight. How so?

In the winter, it takes more energy to stay warm. Thus you’ll want to keep moving those arms and legs, working your muscles, and staying active. This year why not rekindle a sport or activity that you did as a kid. I’ve always loved to ice skate, but living in Southern California had been a draw back. Yet as more ice rinks are built, I’m able to skate year round. Indulging in a childhood sport or passion does two things: It makes you happy and that happiness pours over to other parts of your life, including your work and sex life.

Or find a bundle of new ways to stay active. I love dancing and line dancing, ballet, square dancing, ballroom dancing and just plain old feel good rock and roll. Dancing burns calories by the dozen and builds endurance, flexibility and strength. And you can do it in your living room, by yourself if need be, or you can join other enthusiasts. Rumba anyone?

Let’s say you choose not to be active this winter and spring. Let’s say you’re settled in until you can put on t-shirt and shorts again. The result most likely will be weight gain, less muscle tone, maybe a weaker heart and lungs, far less flexibility and possibly a loss of calcium in your bones. Now you could consider the first in this list to rank on the vanity scale as #1, but the others? Really, now these are health essentials. Further, your self-confidence will increase as you become more fit and less fat. It’s been said that the brain is at the heart of the matter when it comes to intimacy. When you feel great that feeling with be shouted to your partner. You can bank on that.

You don’t have to run a marathon or climb Mt. Everest to stay fit and strong. Begin by talking to your medical advisor. Then start with simple stretches, never do those bobs and bounces that were taught in ancient physical education classes because they’re dangerous. Do a few activities each day, a walk around the block, briskly sweeping the floors and patio, washing the car, walking the golf course. When you begin to enjoy more activities for the sake of feeling good, start a fitness program. Tennis, cycling, cross-country skiing, fencing, kick boxing, the fitness choices are nearly endless.

What extras will you get from this activity-action packed winter and spring? When you really can wear shorts and t-shirt again, you’ll have nothing to lose. Now won’t that be wonderful!