Work out when your energy is highest

Q. Should I exercise as soon as I wakeup because I heard you burn more calories that way?

A. Ideally I’d like to see people working out during the time when their energy levels are at the highest. If you’re not a morning person, why would you workout in the morning? Your effort is more likely to be sluggish, proper form and technique may be jeopardized, and you won’t maximize your time by giving it your all. Try scheduling workouts when you feel most energized, a trainer can help you schedule a balanced program around your priorities too.

Q. Is there an easy way to lose weight?

A. My response to you is what do you consider easy? Weight loss is based on a simple rule: burn more calories than you consume. If you’re consuming an enormous amount of calories, that amount gets more and more difficult to eliminate with exercise. So is it easy to establish a balanced lifestyle? If you can create a balance of exercise and nutrition into your life then weight loss is easy. Try creating a food journal so you know how many calories a day you consume; it helps to stay on track, and it’s like your own personal weight watchers. A food journal may not be as simplified as a point system nor has a fancy calorie calculator, but by educating yourself and creating awareness you’re more likely to stay on track rather than quit a program you are paying for.

Q. What are plyometrics?

A. Plyometrics are trending a lot in workout DVD’s, fitness classes, and personalized fitness programs. Plyometrics are exercises with bursts of energy usually involving some sort of jumping. Plyometric drills are common in professional athlete training. The goal of training with plyometric drills is usually to improve agility, speed and sometimes balance. These types of exercises are often far more challenging than not, and they are high intensity which is great if you want to burn calories. However, with all the jumping they are also high impact and are not recommended for individuals that have had joint injuries. Always ask a professional if you should be doing an exercise before attempting something that might put you at risk of injury.

Q. What does a personal trainer do that I can’t do on my own?

A. A trainer is going to ensure you get to the best shape of your life, with proper supervision, goal setting, motivation, individualized programs, and educated expert knowledge, if you are willing to put forth the time and effort. Trainers will push you to your limits and help you achieve what you may have thought not possible, ultimately getting you to your goals faster than working on your own.

Training can be expensive when they charge $60 per session and upwards. DM Image Consulting in conjunction with the Nicola Valley Aquatic Centre and Merritt Leisure Department (Merritt Civic Centre) only charges $40 a session to make it more affordable. The session includes a free consultation and assessment.

So just remember cheap DVD’s aren’t going to bring you the results you want; a trainer will.

Dan Swedberg is a registered personal trainer. Send your fitness questions to dmimageconsulting@gmail.com.