SPRINGER: Fitness through generations

Much has been said about the ever growing size of American kids. Schools and parents are trying to develop better education for the elementary set that emphasizes healthy eating and regular exercise.

However, there is another population that is at a crossroads of whether or not to make activity a part of their regular life: Generation Y.

Generation Y is classified as those born between 1977 and 1994, currently ages 9 to 27. Most in this age range are driven by technology, are close to their parents, are risk takers and are saturated by advertising.

Eating and exercise habits established during these years are likely to stick with the person for life.

Like many other people, Gen Yers want to lose or maintain weight, look good, build and define muscle and release stress. Gen Yers are looking for activities that are "outside the box."

Old-fashioned weight training and body sculpting classes might not appeal to them. Dance classes are growing in popularity with the MTV generation. Music and popular dance moves get them moving without making them feel as if they are doing their parent's routine.

Clubs need to be more flexible with their class scheduling as later times will probably be more appealing than the 5:30 a.m. time slot.

Many gyms across the country are offering classes that are sport or extreme-sport based. For example, Colorado State University now offers a snow conditioning class that provides progressive, functional strength, agility, balance, endurance training and power drills all in a fun format.

Crunch Gym, a trend-setter, offers Aqua Marine classes that make getting in the pool a challenge. This class gets the younger set in the pool and cancels out stereotypes that pool classes are just for older ladies.

Personal training is also an option for Generation Y who can differ the cost by training with a friend. Strength training is an important component for teens and young adults as it will effectively change their body composition by adding lean muscle.

Gen Yers are likely to see results without having to put in the same amount of time as their 40ish-year-old counterparts. Now is the time in your life to seize the opportunity to get fit as it does not get easier as you age. Setting up a regimen of fitness as a young adult is crucial for weight control and improving your quality of life.

When you are fit as a young adult you are more likely to get involved with sports. Sports enhances your life by not only adding in a new fitness activity but increases your social interaction. Again, skills that are developed as a youngster will stay with you throughout your life.

There is no doubt that a part of being successful in the job market is having high self-confidence and self-esteem. Both of these qualities are higher in those that exercise regularly than those that do not.

Kim Springer and her husband, Mike, are certified personal trainers and owners of Springer Training. They can be reached at 233-9442 or at their Web site www.springertraining.com.


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