Remember the important things

Now, by a show of hands, who wants to die soon? Surprise, surprise, no one raised their hands. Well, if you don’t want to die, why do you still smoke? Why don’t you exercise even a little?

Hang on now. Get your hand out of your excuse bag. I am sure you have great reasons and explanations i.e. “Don’t want to quit,” “Wish I could quit but it’s hard,” “Quit once, but started again, but I plan on quitting soon,” “Started exercising once but quit and don’t want to start again because it’s too hard.” Of course there is the famous, or should I say infamous, “I wish I could exercise, but I just don’t have the time.”

Here is my cue for the obvious question: “Well Mr. Cantseeyourbeltbuckle (could also apply to Mrs. Morethanahandful), why don’t you have the time? The list starts as follows: the job, the kids’ soccer, ballet, hip hop classes, sky diving, under-water basket weaving, and every other organized activity West Islanders could stick their kids into.

It all comes down to realizing how important you are and that nothing will ever be the same if you get sick or die. Let’s face it, if the doctor told you your results came in and you have cancer or your cholesterol and high blood pressure have reached the danger zone and the only way to not die is to quit smoking and exercise, wouldn’t you do it? If you had to go for dialysis three times a week to live, would you miss even one appointment even if the clinic was downtown? Damn right you would not.

So here’s the V-8 smack in the head. Why wait for that news to come? It will come, you know. The question of 'when' is the only one that cannot be answered. Also, how can anyone, especially those with kids, allow themselves to smoke? How bloody selfish can you guys be? Your kids need you to be there for them, especially this generation that has become very used to very structured and safe lives.

If you die or get sick, all the stuff that’s so important will not only not matter anymore, but may be impossible for your loved ones to afford or even get to if you, the family banker/chauffeur/head cheerleader/videographer, etc. is dead. And even if your life insurance policy covers the costs for all of the activities, your family as it was intended to be will be no more. Why? Because you choose to smoke. What you are saying essentially is that the business meetings, kid’s activities, the dinner parties, the business golf tournaments, etc. are more important than your health. The ironic thing is that if you are sick or dead, that all goes away anyway.

The answer: make the choice to change. Quit smoking, get the patch. Go to the doctor and get a complete physical. Now here’s the business part of the equation: you’re going to need to make three or four appointments a week —with yourself!

It could be going to the gym (I have a nice one actually…hint, hint ). It could be brisk walks. Start eating a little better. Don’t go on a crash diet because you will probably last a week and use that as your excuse to tell yourself “this will never work.” As time goes on bring down your quantities and make sure fish and veggie intake goes up and junk food and late night eating go down. Don’t let anything or anyone take you off course.

What you will discover in very short order is that your energy level will rise, your mood will improve, your clothing bills will rise as a result of having to go out and buy smaller clothing and you will want to participate more in kid’s activities rather than simply being a spectator.

I know. You’re not sure how to get started. You need a jump start, guidance on how to train and eat properly, and, over all, motivation. No worries. Contact me and I am sure I can help.

In the mean time, let me get you started on the motivation part. Take a look at those faces while they sleep and think of where they would be if you weren’t around. Motivated yet?

Steve Frischman is president of Power Co. Fitness, 245 K/M St John's Blvd., Pointe Claire. For more information, call 514-674-0822 or check www.powercofitness.com.