Fitness That Fits
by Michele Krauss

Do your workouts suit your personality? Maybe it’s something you’ve never even considered. But gaining a deeper understanding of your own likes and dislikes when it comes to keeping fit can help you in more ways than one. It can draw you to the types of activities and exercises that will keep you constantly interested, motivated, and challenged.

If you’re in an exercise rut, the following ideas might spur you to action. If your routine is already set in stone, try going against the grain by choosing a new activity. You might discover a new passion, and open a new chapter in your fitness life.

The Social Butterfly
For those who like to be around other people, gyms have always been the classic standby. Today’s large-scale gyms offer an array of equipment and classes that appeal to almost any fitness desire. But if your membership card hasn’t seen the light of day in a while, maybe it’s time to try some other people-oriented activities.

Big Blue Sky
Our climate has many advantages, and one of the best is being able to exercise outdoors all year round. Why watch C-SPAN on a treadmill when you could feel a warm breeze while working up a sweat? Experienced area trainers offer a variety of outdoor group and individual fitness classes to fit any personality. Get your butt kicked with an outdoor boot camp session, or work on your core strength while seagulls cheer you on.

San Diego personal trainer Naeem Walcott says choosing carefully is key. “It’s important to find the right exercise plan for yourself because each individual is different.  Many times I’ve seen people doing exercises that they don’t ‘qualify for’, meaning it’s probably something they saw in a magazine and it’s one or two levels above their capabilities,” he said. Walcott added that simply choosing activities you like to do will result in greater fitness success.

The Big Spender
Movie stars and top-tier athletes don’t get those camera-ready physiques by chance. They have the best trainers and nutritionists at their disposal, plus the luxury of time. If you’ve ever fantasized about taking their place, now’s your chance. Camp Technique in Marina Del Rey offers total fitness immersion with a highly specialized live-in program. Staffed with experienced trainers, nutritionists, and fitness experts, Camp Technique’s programs last anywhere from two to sixteen weeks, and offer results that go far beyond mere pounds and pant sizes.

As a guest, you’ll stay in a fully-loaded luxury apartment, and be treated to days filled with fun and challenging workouts, group hikes and bike rides, and one-on-one personal training sessions. Certified nutritionists will help you choose the best diet for your personal body chemistry, as well as make the best food choices when eating out or shopping at your local grocery store. A professional masseuse will also be at your disposal to knead away the soreness.

Camp Technique’s three main programs range from a complete lifestyle makeover to a shorter program that promises to build a sleek and strong body. At this live-in fitness camp, they mean business. Prices for Camp Technique packages range from $8,000-$50,000.

Plug Into the Matrix
The ascent of the small and portable MP3 player has also given rise to several great downloadable fitness programs. If you’re self-motivated and like to work out on your own, this path may suit you best.

At Podfitness.com, customized workouts are created for you based on your needs and preferences. You can also hire a virtual trainer and create custom music mixes. Nike and iPod still offer shoe-powered connectivity to track your steps and speed, and it’s always a great idea to check the latest offerings in the health section of podcast downloads.

Running For a Cause
Team in Training is a national organization that fights leukemia, lymphoma, and Hodgkin’s Disease with funds raised from those who compete in marathons, half-marathons, and other road races. In return for your efforts, Team in Training provides professional-level training, coaching, and mentoring from qualified individuals.

This highly personalized training isn’t only reserved for experienced athletes. Team in Training prides itself on turning couch potatoes into race-ready semi-pros. Not only do you benefit, but the funds you raise for your race will benefit so many who suffer from several deadly blood cancers.

Just Get Moving
To find a fitness plan that fits you, it’s important to try new things. Indoors or out, tuned in or unplugged, your choices for exercise are about as different as each individual you meet. Grab a buddy or go it alone…just get out there and get moving!