How to get couch potatoes moving

August 20, 2008

How to get them off the couch

Three South Florida personal trainers — Tara Hartman of Coral Springs, Sheridan Rafer of Boca Raton and Cynthia London of Boynton Beach — offer these tips:

Start small. Encourage more daily activity, maybe a walk around the block or a short bike ride.

Join forces. Go to the gym or do a sport or activity together.

Don't sabotage them. If you're working out together, don't show off your physical prowess. It may discourage them.

Notice little changes. Compliment them on how their clothes fit better or their energy level is higher. Even small changes provide motivation.

Emphasize better health. Talk about the benefits of exercise for everything from stress relief to lower cholesterol.

Bring in the kids. Gently remind them that their actions influence the kids for better or worse.

Emphasize longevity. Talk about being fit enough to play with the kids and to be around as they grow up.

Don't nag. It doesn't work and, worse, it makes them more resistant.

Liz Doup