By Ann Murray 

The Selma Times-Journal 

 

As Christmas inches closer and January is only days away, I pondered a way to jump start my New Year’s resolutions. Rattling around in my mind was the thought of a few extra pounds and the dreaded bathroom scales. I surfed the web for ideas to inspire personal healthy living. My findings were terrifying. The suggestions for beating the Christmas bulge are as follows:

“Take BEFORE pictures in skimpy workout clothes.” A definite “no.”

“Set performance goals.” Just those words sent me reeling.

“Realize you will fail.” Now there is inspiration.

At the YMCA one of our core missions is healthy living.  I watch real people every day climb on the treadmill, the elliptical and the bikes. They happily visit with friends or immerse themselves in a book on their Kindle. Exercise isn’t difficult in the middle of community. A buddy is a great way stay motivated. You can even ask one of our personal trainers for a custom work out just to get this year off to a perfect start.

January begins an exciting program in partnership with UAB Family Medicine, “Y Not?” A health and wellness initiative created for any who are at risk for diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure. Group and individual coaching provides support and education for small groups in weekly gatherings. Following the program with even minimal weight loss and increased exercise has shown decreases in Type 2 diabetes by 58 percent.

The measurable results will be reported to the patient’s family physician or internist. The program is free for YMCA members and some financial assistance is available to assist in membership fees.

January also brings Seasonings, a monthly cooking class focusing on cooking light with recipes that will help you lose those few pounds. It’s an evening full of laughter and tastings that take place in the YMCA kitchen.

Beginners’ aerobics is a fun way to get back in the swing. If you just can’t take Body Blast, check out this 30-minute workout that moves to Monday afternoons in January. Tiffany Nettles is a great instructor who patiently guides and explains at a gentle pace.

If you want killer workouts, try Kasey Burton’s Step and Sculpt in the morning or Nate Berryhill’s Total Toning in the afternoon.

Mia Suggs cycles with a faithful group on Tuesday and Thursday nights. All of these classes welcome newcomers. Just come on in, and you will make new friends.

Water aerobics has a great following morning and night. The pool heaters are in full gear, creating what’s just shy of bathtub temperatures proving to be easy on joints. Are you a lap swimmer? Set a goal, and we will keep track of distance for you.

Councilperson Angela Benjamin and Susan Keith have generously created memberships for families and for children who would otherwise not be able to enjoy the Y. It’s perfect way to start the new year! Hats off to the city of Selma and to Judge Ballard and the county commissioners for all the ways they support the YMCA.

As January crowds in, and you just can’t bring yourself to take that selfie, then join all of us at the Y. It’s good for you. It’s good for us all.