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People are amazed to learn that I'm 38 years old. It's very important for people to know that you can look younger and be more vibrant regardless of your age. It doesn't matter what age you are, all that matters, is that you start some form of exercise. Whether it is weight - training, running, dancing or even boxing. It is important to know that it is much deeper than the actual exercise.

You must truly connect mentally as well as physically when it comes to exercising to really get the results desired. You see the actual working out or as I like to call it, “training” comes when you are alone. When something in your day may not go the way you planned. We too often eat for comfort.

I believe in the three "Cs":

1. Courage

2. Commitment

3. Consistency.

All three need to be implemented into your life so that you can really obtain results. We need to be more than a people, that they only time we feel the need to exercise is for a special occasion such as attending an event. It appears that unless we are in the spotlight, i.e., the entertainment field, or an athlete, we just don't exercise.

Too often I hear, “Gwen help me, I need to loose 15-20lbs in two weeks”, for this or that event. We often want quick /fast results which never last. You see, exercise at some level must become a way of life.

Then we have the pressure of the video icons, i.e., Janet Jackson, Brittany Spears and don't forget we have L.L Cool J. with that great washboard stomach. There is so much emphasis on looking good on the outside.

Did you know that African Americans suffer from High blood pressure and diabetes just to name a few? We must change our eating habits so that we can live a longer and more productive life.

It is now 2003 and as we have heard most schools have taken out physical education. However, they did not take out all of the fast foods. It is very important for us to have our children involved in some form of extra curricular activity to help them keep their weight in control. Remember when you look good it radiates through in all areas of your life. You are a much happier person and it will show. You will gain a confidence like no other.

We all know that when we are out of shape and overweight, we dislike our bodies and in some form or another begin to tear ourselves down and then we therefore limit ourselves on attaining our goals. Whether it is going for a promotion or even dating. I love when people ask me “Gwen, what are going to wear tonight” and I can respond, “it doesn't really matter, because when your body is in shape, you can wear just about anything.” What a wonderful feeling and especially at age 38. I love the choices that being fit can bring you.

Please take my advice and find a hobby that you can commit to, to help you tackle your fitness goals. Remember, in addition to consistent exercise, your food choices play a major role. Begin to cut out the white sugars, dairy products and oh yes, the alcohol which ages you and is extremely high in calories.

Again, this is just until you get a grip on your personal weight goals. And for those of us that attend church consistently, we hear how important it is to love the body, because it is our temple, right? Well, then why do we after service go and eat the way that we do? You know what I am talking about, macaroni and cheese, fried chicken, etc.; there is no nutritional value in those foods.

This New Year, make it “2003 it's all about me” and take ownership of your body and mind and change your lifestyle for a better you. Watch and see how your body reacts when you take the time and commit to you. Remember, “You may not be as far as you would like to be, but thank God, you are not where you used to be.” Remember to be patient with yourself and know that the weight did not come on overnight, so it is not going to come off overnight. Change your mindset and you will see a great reward in your physique and your health.

BodyByGwen@Blackweekly.com

About Gwen Bolden

At the tender age of 38 with the rock hard Abs of a 25 year old, fitness guru Gwen Bolden will bring her unique high intensity training philosophy to Blackweekly.com. This fiery native of Portland, Oregon has over 12 years of experience and training, and trains a clientele that reads like a who's who list of top entertainers and professional athletes. As a Fitness coach her goal is to inspire others to fulfill their personal goals, and her informative new monthly column will feature fitness tips and nutritional guidance with a unique emotional and spiritual touch.

Gwen's training style is high intensity (her clients calls it Boot Camp). It's a non-stop workout. You can workout and have fun! However, her type of training is for the serious minded, you need to be focused and tap into your zone. Join Gwen on Saturdays at the Fox Hills Park, 7 a.m. - 8 a.m. and 8 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Gwen supplies the weights, mats and the intensity. To join Gwen's Boot Camp or for more information on private training contact Body By Gwen at 310-930-5875

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