Coming Next Month
fitbody
Tweet those Fitness Goals
Online Friends Help Us Stay on Track
by Tamara Grand
Home Local natural-health and sustainability advocates show us how.
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20 NA Twin Cities Edition
umans are inherently social creatures. Most of us enjoy the company of others and
spend much of our waking time engaging in social interactions with colleagues, friends and family. People that spend a lot of time together often adopt one another’s eating and exercise habits—sometimes for the better, but often for the worse. At least one positive side to wish- ing to conform socially is unexpected. Finding the right circle of friends—our own personal support group—can make sticking to an exercise schedule or diet easier. It’s a key factor in the popularity of organized weight-loss groups and exercise classes. Studies published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology and the Journal of Obesity demonstrate that just having a weight-loss or fitness support system in place results in better adherence to diet and exercise with more pounds shed and kept off over the long term. Researchers believe that in
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addition to the motivation and account- ability supporters provide, benefits are also enhanced by learning through ob- serving; changing our behavior through watching the actions and outcomes of others’ behavior. If we don’t have physical access to a local support group, we can access one online or create our own, using one of the following social media platforms.
Facebook The leading social networking web- site includes thousands of community and group pages devoted to weight loss, exercise and healthy living. Its search function helps find one that fits our needs. Make an introduction and join the discussion. Participating in a special challenge helps everyone stay motivated.
Twitter This micro-blogging site is informal and fast-paced, providing nearly instanta- neous feedback. Use Twitter to identify
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