Monday, September 17, 2007

Having a Support System to reach your wellness goals

We have all read the statistics that less than 5% of the people who begin an exercise program are able to maintain and keep the weight off after one year. In order to be successful we must build a support system. A support system is a partner, coach, or friend who is reliable and will encourage you to continue to strive towards your wellness and fitness goals (even with set backs). I call these people your Wellness Partners.

Advantages of a support system:

  • Improve successful completion. People enjoy exercising more when they have a wellness partner. Many times you will be pushed to do more than you thought you could complete.

  • Helps you get through times when your motivation is lacking. Whether a friend or coach a wellness partner can help motivate you to stay on track.

  • Teamwork. Working as a team can help get you to your wellness goals quicker. Teams often share great ideas, brainstorm and are great cheerleaders. Your team wants you to succeed.

  • What to look for in a wellness partner:

  • She or He must be reliable.

  • You & your partner need to agree on the goals to be met. They should be SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Accurate, Realistic and Timely)

  • Close to you in location.

  • Agrees on exercise environment (outside, inside, at the ocean, etc)

  • Matches or compliments your personality.


  • Work on putting a successful support system together and you will be well on your way to succeeding in your wellness goals.