Michael Bronco

Learn to be responsible for your fitness

 It's never too early to take ownership of your body and your health.  If you can read, then you can read labels;   if you can tell time, then you can be on time; and if you can listen, then you can pay attention.

The students that I have worked with over that past twenty years that have climbed the highest all have one trait in common - they make no excuses.  It's really that simple.  If you want to be stronger then show up and give an effort - everyday. Don't believe all the hype about things coming easy either.  Nothing worthwhile comes easy. 

In my opinion, the three most important things to being successful in life are dedication, consistency and honesty.  I have seen lots of folks (and not just students) show up to the gym and do nothing more than waste time going through the motions.  Don't get me wrong, showing up is important.  But it's just the beginning.

The questions I have for you are: Do you get enough rest?  How is your nutrition?  Do you skip breakfast?  Do you believe in your fitness program and do you give it your best effort?  And most importantly, do you have fun?  If the answer is no to any of these questions then you have some work to do.

Here are some goals to focus on:

• Avoid foods that have more than 5 grams of sugar (except fruit)
• Get at least 8 hours of sleep per night
• Always use proper form when weight lifting
• Eat breakfast everyday

Remember, it's your body and your life.  Your dreams and goals can't be handed to you.  They must be earned.   And it's never too soon to get started.  

How to Read Labels 101

Let's begin with cereal and snacks that come in a box. Here is a real simple rule to live by: make sure that whatever you eat contains no more than 5 grams of sugar. (with the exception of fruit).  You also want to check the fiber content.  For your grain products like cereal and granola bars you want the fiber to at least match the sugar.

A recent survey by consumer reports found that at least 11 of the most popular  cereals contain 50% sugar!  That's not good.  One of the better choices is Cheerios which has 1 gram of sugar and 3 grams of fiber. We also use unsweetened almond milk instead of cow's milk.  Why?  No sugar and loads of potassium.

We like Nature's Path, Ezekiel and some of the Kashi products.  But again, check the label.  One of our favorite granola cereals just upped the sugar content from 4 grams to 10! 

Our kids eat like this everyday and enjoy an occasional treat.  A REAL one!  And guess what?  They NEVER get sick....