By Rita La Rosa Loud, B.S.

Not everybody is eager to put on sneakers, change into gym clothes then sprint out the door to work out. I get it! Would you believe I was bashful and hesitant to step foot into a gym? But here I am today, hooked on fitness. Apparently other rationales for evading physical activity are: 1. Feeling uncomfortable and out of place, 2. Lack of time, 3. Not having a workout partner, 4. High program cost, or 5. Fearing injury. Perhaps this resonates with you. To overcome similar obstacles, here is a handy checklist of what to look for and how to get started in an exercise program that suits your likes and needs.
How to get started: A checklist
Group fitness programming is an enjoyable and effective way to build new friendships with like-minded individuals while getting fit and staying active.

  • Communicate with family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers that you may need encouragement, a motivated workout companion, or assistance with meal planning to support your health and fitness goals.
  • Choose exercise classes led by expert instructors who set goals suited to your fitness level and abilities. As a rule, educated fitness trainers hear and comprehend your needs, concerns, and goals.
  • Seek professional trainers who stress proper technique, show correct form, and provide modifications that ensure safe and effective workout sessions.
  • Set a schedule that tailors well with your present commitments, for example, 30 minutes of exercise two to three times per week.
  • Check local YMCAs, senior centers, or community gyms offering senior discounts, household memberships, financial aid, or referral programs to offset program cost.
  • Review your current health insurance policy. Many major providers reimburse up to $150 toward membership; some even offer a wellness allowance for select workout options. If you need help claiming a benefit, contact the provider’s customer service department for details of the application process.
  • Consult with your primary care provider before signing up or engaging in an exercise class or program.
    Set yourself up for success!
    To get the most out of your fitness journey, expand your horizons. Experience a variety of life-enhancing physical activities – workout programs like resistance training, aerobic exercise, as well as stretch and relaxation movements such as yoga, tai chi, even pool classes, and much more. In addition, assistance given by qualified coaches, certified instructors and personal trainers in association with established health and well-being facilities are available everywhere. They’re there for your partaking. Just pack a gym bag, step out the door and give it a go!
    To help you get started on your fitness journey, consider participating in our highly supervised adult and older adult group fitness program, coached by our national certified training staff. It includes resistance exercise, aerobic activity, flexibility, balance, and functional training at the Wayne Westcott, Ph.D. Center for Health and Fitness at Quincy College. We are located at Presidents Place, 1250 Hancock St., Quincy. Call 617-405-5978 to tour, inquire about complimentary training and obtain registration procedures. Street parking is available; a parking garage is next to the building.

About the Author: Rita La Rosa Loud holds a B.S. in Exercise Physiology with additional education in Sports Medicine and Athletic Training. She is NASM Certified and has been actively involved in the fitness industry for more than 35 years. She is also an author and writes fitness-related articles for various publications. Currently, she is a fitness researcher and directs the Wayne Westcott, Ph.D. Center for Health and Fitness at Quincy College. She can be reached at 617-405-5978 or by email at Rita.larosaloud@quincycollege.edu.