Question: I want to change my workout and eating habits but always fall short. What can I do?

        Answer: The first thing to do is to rid yourself of the attitude that will allow you to “fall short.” Too many people go into exercise and nutrition programs expecting and waiting for the program to “work,” when in reality success depends upon the participant “doing the work.”

        Few programs fail when the participant gives 100 percent effort. When someone sets a goal and makes the effort to succeed, it is rare for them not to reach that goal and even more rare not to come away with a positive outcome of some sort.

        You must honestly ask yourself how important improving your health and appearance is to you. This is because working out and eating right isn't a leisure activity that you pick up now and then — it is what your body was designed for. If the body were designed for donuts, soda pop and burgers, we could eat them all the time and we wouldn't be among the fattest and most inactive people on the planet.

        When you are focused and determined to finally make lasting changes with regard to your health and well-being, you will simply do what is necessary to get the job done.

        The cosmetic benefits of exercise are only a small part of a big picture with regard to fitness. Yes, working out and eating rightimproves your appearance, but more important, it improves, strengthens and maintains every major system of your body.

        I can't count how many people call me wanting to get trained because their doctor told them to start exercising and eating right — or die. Not to scare you, but failing to adhere to consistent exercise and good eating habits is the most silent of all killers. You have the opportunity to change this right now, so write down your goals, how you plan to achieve them and do it.

        Check with your doctor before starting and have a fitness professional get you on a program tailored to your specific needs.

        Contact certified personal trainer Dave Patania at davpatania@aol.com.

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