SVPT

What Is Semi-Private Personal Training and Is It Right for You?

Let’s face it: we all want to get in shape, but sometimes the idea of working out alone sounds about as appealing as doing your taxes on a Saturday night. One-on-one personal training can be great, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. Group fitness classes, on the other hand, can sometimes feel too impersonal. Enter semi-private personal training—the sweet spot between individualized attention and social motivation. But what exactly is it, and more importantly, is it the right fit for you? Let’s break it down.

Understanding Semi-Private Personal Training at SVPT Fitness & Athletics

At SVPT Fitness & Athletics, South Edmonton’s premiere private gym specializing in semi-private training, we take a unique approach to fitness. Semi-private personal training is a hybrid training model that typically involves two to five individuals working with one trainer at the same time. Unlike large group classes where an instructor has to divide their attention among 10-plus people, semi-private training allows for more personalized guidance while maintaining a sense of camaraderie. It’s like getting VIP treatment—without the VIP price.

 

How Semi-Private Training Differs from One-on-One Sessions

You might be wondering, “Isn’t this just a budget version of personal training?” Not exactly. While one-on-one training is tailored exclusively to your fitness needs, semi-private sessions still offer customization—just with a shared trainer. Here’s how they compare:

  • Personal Attention: At SVPT, you still receive expert coaching, but you’ll also be training alongside a few others who may have different goals.
  • Cost Efficiency: One-on-one sessions can be pricey, but semi-private training in South Edmonton at SVPT offers many of the same perks at a fraction of the price.
  • Social Interaction: Instead of sweating it out solo, you’ll be training with others which creates a natural motivation while fostering a sense of accountability.

Key Benefits of Semi-Private Training at SVPT Fitness & Athletics

Still on the fence? Here are some compelling reasons why semi-private training in Edmonton at SVPT might be your next best fitness decision:

  • Affordability: Get expert coaching without breaking the bank.
  • Motivation & Accountability: Your training partners and our expert coaches keep you motivated and on track.
  • Personalized Workouts: Our certified trainers customize your training plan to match your fitness level and goals.
  • Fun & Supportive Environment: The SVPT gym in South Edmonton offers a welcoming space where working out is both effective and enjoyable.

 

Who Can Benefit from Semi-Private Training?

Semi-private training at SVPT Fitness & Athletics is perfect for:

  • Beginners who want professional guidance without feeling overwhelmed.
  • Intermediate to advanced athletes looking for structured workouts at an affordable price.
  • Busy professionals who need a time-efficient, results-driven workout.
  • Friends or couples who want to train together with expert coaching.

 

What to Expect in a Semi-Private Training Session at SVPT

If you’re envisioning a chaotic free-for-all, fear not! A typical semi-private training session in South Edmonton at SVPT includes:

  1. Warm-Up: Dynamic stretching and mobility drills to prep your body.
  2. Strength & Conditioning: A structured program tailored to your fitness goals.
  3. Trainer Guidance: Our expert coaches provide feedback, corrections, and encouragement.

Expect sessions to last between 45 to 60 minutes, and while you’ll train with others, your workout will still be tailored to your individual needs.

Choosing the Right Semi-Private Training Program at SVPT

So, you’re ready to dive in—but why choose SVPT Fitness & Athletics? Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Certified & Experienced Trainers: Our expert coaches specialize in semi-private training in Edmonton.
  • Structured Programming: Our training isn’t just random workouts—we provide a clear, progressive plan to help you achieve your goals.
  • Supportive Community: You’ll train alongside others who are just as committed to fitness as you are.
  • State-of-the-Art Facility: Our South Edmonton gym is fully equipped to support your training needs.

Final Thoughts: Is Semi-Private Training at SVPT Right for You?

If you want personalized training in Edmonton without the hefty price tag, enjoy working out in a motivating small-group environment, and like the idea of a structured yet flexible fitness program, then semi-private training at SVPT Fitness & Athletics is your answer. Our expert coaches, top-tier facility, and supportive community make working out both effective and fun. Ready to take the next step?

📍 Visit us in South Edmonton or book a consultation today at SVPT Fitness & Athletics to start your fitness journey the right way.

Move better. Feel better. Live better. 

 

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Why SVPT Fitness & Athletics’ Movement Over 60 Class is Edmonton’s Best Fitness Program for Aging Adults

August 15, 2025

As we age, staying active becomes more important than ever. But finding the right fitness program—one that’s safe, effective, and enjoyable—can be a challenge. That’s where SVPT Fitness & Athletics’ Movement Over 60 group class comes in. Designed specifically for older adults, this small-group class provides expert guidance, personalized adjustments, and a welcoming community that makes fitness fun and sustainable.

 

A Class Designed for You

One of the standout features of the Movement Over 60 class is its small class size, capped at just six participants. This ensures that every individual gets the attention and support they need. Unlike large, impersonal group classes, this intimate setting allows our expert trainers to provide real-time feedback and modifications based on your unique fitness level and any limitations you may have. This class is structured to offer the best experience for older adults looking to stay fit without the intimidation of a traditional gym setting.

 

Personalized Adjustments for Every Participant

No two bodies are the same, and that’s especially true as we age. Whether you’re dealing with joint pain, mobility restrictions, or previous injuries, our trainers make customized adjustments to exercises so that you can move safely and effectively. You’ll get all the benefits of exercise without the risk of overexertion or strain, helping you build strength, mobility, and confidence at your own pace. Our coaches are highly experienced in working with fitness program for aging adults and understand the importance of progressive, low-impact movements to help you stay strong and functional for daily activities.

More Than Just a Workout – A Community

One of the biggest challenges older adults face when trying to stay active is motivation. Working out alone can feel isolating, but in the Movement Over 60 class, you’re surrounded by like-minded peers who share similar goals and experiences. The social aspect of this class is just as valuable as the physical benefits—you’ll find encouragement, support, and even new friendships along the way. Staying active is easier when you feel connected and supported by those around you.

 

Fitness Program for Aging Adults

The Many Benefits of Movement Over 60

Regular physical activity has been proven to help with:

  • Increased Strength & Mobility – Maintain independence and reduce the risk of falls by improving muscle tone and flexibility.
  • Improved Heart Health – Keep your cardiovascular system in great shape, lowering the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.
  • Better Balance & Coordination – Stay steady on your feet and prevent injuries through targeted exercises that improve stability.
  • Enhanced Mental Well-Being – Exercise is a natural mood booster, reducing stress, anxiety, and the risk of cognitive decline.
  • Increased Energy Levels – Feel more vibrant and capable in daily life, reducing fatigue and improving sleep quality.
  • Weight Management & Metabolism Boost – Regular movement helps maintain a healthy weight and improves metabolic function.

Expert Guidance for Maximum Safety

At SVPT Fitness & Athletics, we take safety seriously. Our trainers are knowledgeable about age-related fitness concerns and design each session to ensure participants work at an appropriate intensity. We focus on functional fitness, meaning the exercises performed in class will directly help you in daily life—whether it’s getting up from a chair, carrying groceries, or maintaining balance on uneven surfaces.

Additionally, our facility is fully equipped with age-friendly exercise equipment, ensuring a safe and effective workout environment. Our goal is to help you feel confident in every movement while prioritizing longevity and injury prevention.

Safe, Supportive, and Fun!

At SVPT Fitness & Athletics, we believe that fitness should be accessible, enjoyable, and empowering for every stage of life. Our Movement Over 60 class isn’t about pushing limits to the extreme—it’s about moving well, feeling strong, and enjoying the process in a safe, supportive environment. We emphasize progress at your own pace, making each session feel rewarding and achievable.

If you’re an aging adult in Edmonton looking for the best way to take charge of your fitness, this class is for you. Experience the power of movement, expert guidance, and a community that cheers you on every step of the way.

Join the Best Over 60 Fitness Program in Edmonton

Don’t wait to take control of your health and well-being. Sign up today for the Movement Over 60 class at SVPT Fitness & Athletics and discover how staying active can transform your quality of life.

Contact us to learn more, book a trial session, or reserve your spot in the next class. Your body and mind will thank you!

Move better. Feel better. Live better. 



Where Can I Find a Personal Trainer? Top Resources and Tips

August 15, 2025

So, you’ve finally decided to get a personal trainer. Maybe it’s because your jeans are laughing at your attempts to squeeze into them, or perhaps you’ve realized that “lifting” the remote doesn’t count as strength training. Whatever the reason, you’re on a mission to find someone who will whip you into shape, on a mission with name “Where Can I Find a Personal Trainer?”. But where do you start? Let’s discuss.

Why You Should Hire a Personal Trainer

Let’s be honest: left to our own devices, most of us would rather binge-watch our favorite series than endure a grueling workout. A personal trainer ensures that doesn’t happen. They hold you accountable, create a workout plan that doesn’t involve aimless wandering around the gym, and, if they’re really good, make you feel bad for skipping leg day.

A good trainer will also help you avoid injuries (because YouTube fitness tutorials can only take you so far). They’ll correct your form, keep you motivated, and, remind you that you most likely need more protein. 

Online vs. In-Person Training: Pros and Cons

Now that you’re convinced you need a personal trainer, should you go for the real-life, in-person motivator or the more relaxed, screen-bound version? Let’s weigh the options.

Online Training

Pros:

  • Convenient—you can train in your pajamas (do you).
  • Often more affordable than in-person sessions.
  • Access to trainers from all over the world (so no excuse that there aren’t any good ones nearby).

Cons:

  • No one to physically correct your ‘squat gone wrong blooper reel’ form. 
  • Easy to ignore if your couch is particularly inviting.
  • Requires self-discipline (and let’s be real, that’s why you need a trainer in the first place).

In-Person Training

Pros:

  • Real-time corrections and motivation.
  • Harder to slack off when someone is staring directly into your soul.
  • More personalized training based on your actual abilities (rather than what you think you can do).

Cons:

  • Can be pricey (because good trainers don’t work for free, unfortunately).
  • Requires travel, and let’s face it, getting to the gym is half the battle.
  • No escaping—unlike with Zoom calls, you can’t fake a “bad connection.”

How to Evaluate a Trainer’s Credentials

Just because someone has a six-pack doesn’t mean they’re qualified to train you. Here’s what to look for when choosing a personal trainer in Edmonton:

  1. Certifications – Look for trainers certified by reputable organizations like NASM, ACE, ACSM, NSCA, and CSEP to name a few. If they say, “I got my training expertise from Instagram,” tread carefully. 
  2. Experience – While newbies can be great, experience usually means they’ve dealt with a variety of clients (including those who “accidentally” ghost their workouts).
  3. Specialization – Need help with gaining muscle? Strength training? Post-injury recovery? Find a trainer who actually knows what they’re doing in your area of focus.
  4. Client Reviews – If their past clients sing their praises (or at least don’t curse their name), that’s a good sign.
  5. Personality Fit – Do they motivate you in a way that works for you? Some people love the tough-love approach; others need a cheerleader. Know what suits you best.

Tips for Starting Your Training Journey

So, you’ve picked a trainer—congratulations! Now, how do you make the most of your new commitment to fitness?

  • Be Honest About Your Goals – Trainers know how to train, they’re not mind-readers. Be honest about your goals. Trainers shouldn’t judge your goals, they’re here to develop a roadmap to get you there. 
  • Stay Consistent – Results won’t happen overnight. If they did, we’d all have six-packs and personal chefs.
  • Listen to Your Trainer – If they tell you to do your warmup, do it. If they ask if you’ve done the homework they’ve given, there’s usually a reason for that – get the most from your investment and utilize their feedback. 
  • Track Your Progress – Whether it’s through photos, strength metrics, mood, energy, or how much easier it is to carry groceries, small wins matter.
  • Have Fun (or at Least Pretend To) – Fitness doesn’t have to be miserable. Find a routine that keeps you coming back for more.

Finding a personal trainer in Edmonton is easier than ever, thanks to high-quality gyms and personal training studios throughout the city. The hard part? Actually sticking to your fitness plan. But with the right trainer, a bit of dedication, and maybe a few motivational pep talks, you’ll be well on your way to crushing your fitness goals.

If you’re looking for expert personal training in South Edmonton, check out SVPT Fitness & Athletics. As a premier private gym specializing in private, partner, and semi-private training, they provide the best support, knowledge, and motivation to help you succeed. Contact SVPT Fitness & Athletics today and take the first step towards a healthier, stronger you!

Look better. Feel better. Live better. 



Why Hire a Personal Trainer?

April 17, 2025

Personal Training Services at SVPT Fitness & Athletics: What’s Included and What to Expect

So, you’ve decided to take the plunge into personal training—congratulations! Whether you’re trying to get rid of that nagging injury, build strength, or simply move better in your daily life, SVPT Fitness & Athletics in South Edmonton is here to help. As a premier private gym specializing in private, partner, and semi-private training, we create personalized fitness programs tailored to your unique needs. But what exactly is included, and what should you expect? Let’s break it down!

What Are Personal Training Services?

In short, personal training services at SVPT are like having a fitness GPS—someone to tell you where to go and how fast while ensuring you stay accountable. Our certified personal trainers design customized workout programs and provide expert guidance to help you achieve your goals.

Key Components of a Personal Training Program

A great personal training program includes:

  • Comprehensive Fitness Assessment: Your trainer will evaluate your current fitness level, discuss goals, your injury history, and hobbies and lifestyle.
  • Personalized Workout Plan: Workouts are tailored to your goals, abilities, and lifestyle.
  • Accountability & Motivation: Your trainer will keep you on track and celebrate your victories.
  • Injury Prevention & Movement Quality: We prioritize safe, effective training that helps build a robust body to withstand the rigors of life.

How Personal Training at SVPT Helps You Achieve Your Goals

Whether your goal is muscle gain, improved endurance, or moving pain-free, our trainers provide structure, guidance, and motivation. We focus on functional fitness, ensuring that your workouts enhance real-life activities, not just gym performance. Plus, we modify workouts to accommodate injuries or limitations.

What to Expect in Your First Training Session

Walking into any gym for your first session might feel intimidating, but don’t worry, at SVPT Fitness & Athletics we’re a no judgement, friendly space—there’s no fitness hazing here. Here’s what typically happens:

  • Goal Discussion & Fitness History: We’ll chat about your current lifestyle and fitness aspirations.
  • Baseline Fitness Tests: This may include movement screenings and simple strength or endurance assessments.
  • Technique Coaching: Expect to learn proper form and movement mechanics.
  • Sample Workout: Your trainer will introduce you to foundational exercises.
  • Next Steps: Your trainer will provide recommendations for off-day training and lifestyle adjustments. Homework, you could say. 

Customization and Goal Setting with Your Personal Trainer

At SVPT Fitness & Athletics, your training program is built around you. We:

  • Set realistic, measurable goals that align with your fitness level and lifestyle.
  • Adjust your plan as you progress to keep you challenged but not overwhelmed.
  • Incorporate exercises you enjoy to maintain motivation. 

How to Choose the Right Personal Training Service for You

All personal trainers have their own strengths. When choosing a trainer at SVPT, consider:

  • Credentials & Experience: Our trainers hold top certifications and expertise in various fitness disciplines.
  • Training Style & Approach: We match you with a trainer who suits your personality and needs.
  • Location & Availability: Located in South Edmonton, SVPT offers flexible scheduling.
  • Client Success Stories: Our long-standing reputation is built on real results.

Common Questions About Personal Training at SVPT

Q: Do I need to be in shape before hiring a personal trainer?
A: Absolutely not! We meet you where you are and help you improve from there.

Q: How often should I train with a personal trainer?
A: Many clients train 2-3 times per week, while others do a mix of trainer-led and independent sessions.

Q: Is personal training worth the investment?
A: 100%! If you need expert guidance, consistency, or faster, safer results, personal training is an excellent investment in your health.

Q: What if I don’t click with my trainer?
A: Chemistry matters. If your trainer isn’t the right fit, we’re happy to match you with another expert on our team.

 

Take the First Step Towards a Stronger, Healthier You

At SVPT Fitness & Athletics, we’re dedicated to helping you move better, feel better, and live better. Whether you’re new to fitness or looking to break through plateaus, our private, partner, and semi-private training services provide the personalized support you need.

Visit us in South Edmonton or book a consultation today at SVPT Fitness & Athletics to start your fitness journey the right way.

Move better. Feel better. Live better. 

Exercise Won’t Give You a 6-Pack

March 2, 2019

Weight loss (fat loss) is the #1 reason people seek out a personal trainer. (Note: there is a difference between weight loss and fat loss, and most people want the fat loss, so we will continue with that phrase). And we will also note that everyone has a 6-pack, it’s just a matter of if we can see them or not.

If your goal is fat loss, a good personal trainer will stress that fat loss starts in the kitchen, and exercise should supplement your fat loss goals. We stay in our lanes. We are not registered dietitians, and while we can give general advice on how to improve your nutrition (drink more water, eat less processed foods, cut back on sugar, eat more whole foods, fruits and veggies), we are not experts in what exactly you need to create the safest and most effective environment in your body for fat loss.

(Side Note: In my opinion, if a trainer pushes you to try the latest and greatest diet trend out there – Keto, Paleo, etc. – or pushes you to buy some type of shake they sell – RUN for the hills. Personal trainers should be teaching you exercise, fitness and physical activity – not selling you diets and shakes.)

So with nutrition being the single most important variable in fat loss, why is there such a focus on exercise? People are misinformed thanks to the internet, and continually think that they can out-train bad nutrition. You can’t. Exercise isn’t going to burn off the bad food or excess calories you ate. In fact, the whole “burn up to 600 calories” per workout (and for 72 hours after!) is bunk. It’s misleading and has been proven by science to be inaccurate for years…decades, in fact.

This is why you see so many personal trainers peddling nutrition, because they KNOW that it’s crucial in their clients’ journey to getting results (fat loss). You often see “fat burning workouts” or the best “fat burning exercises” all over the internet. Well, sorry…but it’s all BUNK.

Do you burn calories when you workout? YES. But not as much as you think, and not enough to be your one and only fat loss strategy. The quantity of calories you actually burn in a workout session is lower than you’ve been led to believe, and the extra calories you burn from exercise only account for a small part of your total energy expenditure during the day – somewhere in the range of 10-30 percent. The remaining 70-90 percent comes from your resting metabolic rate, the energy used to carry out the host of physiological processes that are constantly occurring in the body. (Be wary of activity trackers, as they tend to overestimate the caloric burn from these processes.)

Do you continue to burn calories for many hours or even days after your workout? NO. Depending on the specific type of training you are doing, your metabolism stays elevated post-workout for about the length of time you trained, but not much beyond that. And certainly not for days! And at this point, I am sure HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) has come to mind, which is one of the most popular fitness trends being marketed as purely a fat burning workout, especially in the Edmonton fitness scene. The science has been out that true HIIT can definitely improve V02 max, and improve blood sugars. However, the energy expenditure is just not enough because of the duration of the session. True HIIT sessions (and that is where you are literally working at your MAX heart rate for the work periods) are only meant to be done for anywhere from 10-20 minutes. While many studies show that HIIT can help with fat loss (negligible) than other forms of exercise, the biggest factor in that was, of course, nutrition and appetite suppression (nutrition!).

I would add (as a shameless plug) SVPT Fitness + Athletics has NEVER ever marketed or sold so-called fat burning workouts, fat burning exercises, weight loss shakes, or any kind of supplements. We have never made false claims about training to entice clients into our gym. And we have been successfully in business for 10 years.

We take pride in refusing to spread inaccurate information. We don’t even believe in putting an emphasis on exercise for burning calories. We put the emphasis on quality movement that will benefit your health and your life. We know that if you want to lose fat or have long term weight loss goals, it is all about the food! This is why we partnered with dietitians to help our clients navigate those waters. It’s the best way for them to learn the most effective ways to lose fat and keep it off over the long term.

BUT WAIT…does this mean you don’t have to exercise to lose fat? NO. You still need to exercise so you can do ALL the things you want to in life. So you can be independent. So you can prevent injury. So you can golf into your 70s, or hike into your 60s. So you CAN LIVE A FULL LIFE. Exercise shouldn’t be a punishment to burn off something you ate, or earn something you want to eat. Exercise should be your tool to live life to the full. Exercise GIVES life. Exercise improves health. And when you improve health, you improve quality of life.

Here is why you still need to exercise, regardless of your goals:

  • Joint health
  • Muscle strength, growth and maintenance\
  • Improve blood pressure
  • Improve blood sugars
  • Improve mood
  • Decrease stress, anxiety, fatigue
  • Improve attention
  • Improve sleep
  • Cardiovascular health
  • Prevent disease and illness
  • Resilience
  • Independence
  • Longevity
  • Vitality
  • Resilience

….the list is extensive and can go on even further. Essentially, we just move less than we did 50 years ago.

Exercise is excellent for health and wellness; it’s just not that important for fat loss. So don’t expect to lose a lot of fat by ramping up physical activity alone. If your workouts are soul crushing every day in an effort to “burn more calories” or “burn fat” to get to your fat loss goals, you are actually doing yourself a disservice. Not just that day or that week, but long term. The hormonal ramifications of soul crushing workouts every day are huge, not to mention that you are also risking burnout and injury.

With all of that said, it’s still awesome to challenge yourself with a really tough workout every once in a while. It simply has to be programmed properly – both to occur at the right time, and to include movements that won’t get you hurt. This is where seeking the advice of a fitness professional can help you.

If weight/fat loss is your goal, please seek the help of a registered dietitian to learn about food, proper eating habits, and your caloric range to help you get to your fat loss goals safely and effectively. At the same time, realize the genuinely incredible health benefits of exercise. While exercise is still an important part of the fat loss puzzle, remember that it shouldn’t be the ONLY piece.

Shara Vigeant, BA, NSCA-CPT*D, CFSC

Why Hire a Personal Trainer?

January 2, 2019

Why hire a personal trainer? It’s simple — hiring an SVPT certified personal trainer can take out the confusion and guess work about proper training as well as reduce the risk of injury. In the long run personal training can help save you time and money all while getting you fitter and healthier, and living a fuller life.

  1. Assessment
    Many of you are doing exercises and programs that just aren’t suited for your body, fitness level, or goals. This is why many exercise and see no results.  Assessments can teach you about the imbalances, strengths and weaknesses in your body. Assessments help SVPT personal trainers create a program that is individually suited to you so you can train to your full potential, without wasting time and risking injury.
  2. Knowledge
    Hiring a personal trainer is an investment. During your sessions, you will learn the how and why to train effectively, efficiently, and safely. We educate you so you can take away as much knowledge as possible, so when the time comes you can train on your own, and do so with confidence. We expect you to leave the nest eventually, in fact that is our goal, is to have you feel so educated and confident, that you can train on your own. When you leave the nest it means we have done our jobs in teaching you how to train properly.
  3. Motivation
    We all struggle with training motivation at some point. A personal trainer can give you the extra little kick in the butt when you struggle. We can’t do the work for you and we can’t make you want it, but we can give you a little nudge in the right direction.
  4. Accountability
    Accountability is strongly tied to motivation. A personal trainer can keep you on track with your goals so you can get the results you seek. Life can get in the way, and usually the first thing to go is exercise. Consistency is the key to success, and having someone to hold you accountable can keep you consistent and on track.
  5. Goal Setting
    Sometimes we want everything all at once, but that is usually a little unrealistic and overwhelming. Our personal trainers can help you set realistic fitness goals that are achievable and in-line with your lifestyle, fitness level and budget.

So now that you know the WHY, learn what you should be looking for in a personal trainer and check out our blog from January 2018 – “What Makes a Good Personal Trainer?”

Shara Vigeant, BA, NSCA-CPT*D, CFSC

T’is the Season for Maintenance

December 2, 2018

For many personal trainers, the month of December might be properly referred to as a “Maintenance Month.” December is typically filled with social obligations, and stress surrounding the holidays in general for clients.  Your regular routine and schedule goes out the window and all the holiday parties and gatherings mean you’re tempted to indulge in foods you otherwise would avoid and to also skip workouts.  As it is, committing to a regular nutrition and exercise schedule can be tough year round from life’s ups and downs, but the holidays in particular can exacerbate these stresses.

The holidays can bring about added stress from shopping, increased food preparation, house guests, frequent visitors, financial stress, more demands on time, and simply a change in schedule.  A change in routine, whether it is good or bad, equates to stress.  The biggest complaint personal trainers hear during this time of year is clients not being able to fit in workouts or stick to their nutrition regime, due to all the added obligations.

One of the reasons personal trainers and nutritionists really stress creating exercise and nutritional habits year round, is so when life happens, like the busy holiday season, the repercussions of missing a workout or indulging in holiday goodies will not set you back to square one.  In fact, if you are consistent  (not perfect) all year round, you might welcome the relaxed holiday season. Consistency year round allows you to have some time to just maintain, which might look a little more relaxed.

Let’s be clear — not being perfect does not make you a failure. All areas of our lives have ebbs and flows, which are necessary elements of life. The easiest way to understand this is using the term burnout. We all know what causes burnout – not enough balance and/or recovery. It’s ok to hammer away at something for a while, and it is just as ok to back off when you need to. And this might mean using the holiday season to do so.

Maintenance might be one of the least sexy words out there, but maintenance is about doing the little things in order to keep us at the same level, or not allow us to go backwards.  Just like life doesn’t need to be a continual march forward, neither does your fitness journey.  Sometimes we need to march in place when competing priorities are difficult to manage.  So you had to skip a few workouts for a social event or other holiday obligations? In the long run and the bigger picture of a year round commitment to a healthy lifestyle, this is inconsequential. Even 3 or 4 parties like this are not likely to affect your overall health if you are  maintaining a routine of health and fitness year round. Your batting average is still going to be high.   It also might be argued that a little break from your routine will help you appreciate it a little bit more when it comes time to get back into it.

So what does maintenance look like?  It’s just simply, marching in place, getting it done.  It can also be defined as keeping healthy and injury free, while not moving backwards – keeping status quo.  If you exercise 4-5 days a week in your regular routine, maintenance might look like 3 exercise sessions.  And should that get away from you, aiming to do any kind of movement for 30 minutes, regardless if it’s in your regime or not.  Any physical activity is better than nothing.  Walks, skiing, skating, etc. with the family are a great way to stay active.  You do what you need to do not go backwards and just maintain.  If you are not worried about maintenance during the holiday season, then use exercise as a great form of stress relief and a welcome break from the hustle and bustle.

This season the last thing you need is added stress.  Give yourself permission to maintain, do your best, and just enjoy the holiday season for all it has to offer.

 

Kristen Hansen, BA, CSEP-CPT, PFT-NAIT, NASM-CES, FRCms

Shara Vigeant, BA, NSCA-CPT*D, CFSC

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Ready to take the first step towards a healthier, more active lifestyle? 

Don’t wait any longer to achieve your fitness goals. Contact SVPT Fitness + Athletics today to learn more about our services, schedule a consultation, and discover how we can help you become the best version of yourself. Your journey to a healthier, more active lifestyle begins here.

CONTACT US TODAY TO GET STARTED