Don’t Be a Couch Potato!

I don’t usually post two days in a row, but I wanted to share a short little post today that is in keeping with Monday’s post about jump-starting your New Year’s resolutions. I came across a sobering little article from USA Today titled “Americans Continue to Pack on the Pounds.” In it are some pretty depressing statistics. The article reports that the percentage of obese adults increased in 16 states over the past year. How many states do you think saw a decrease? You’re right, none, zero, zilch, nada. The article states that in some respects the fact that obesity rates went up in 16 states is good news…as in the past it has increased in more states. I find that really, really depressing. We’re supposed to look on the bright side that obesity rates increased in only 16 states?

In other depressing news, the number of adults who reported doing NO physical activity increased in 14 states. We are moving in the wrong direction. The sad thing is that obesity rates have a strong correlation with poverty levels, which is why out of the 10 states with the highest obesity rates, 9 of them are in the south, which traditionally has higher poverty levels. I have talked in the past about the fact that much of our cheap, highly processed food that is high in empty carbohydrates is definitely contributing to the obesity epidemic (see The Great Fat Fiasco and The Great Fat Fiasco Part Two).

I don’t know how to solve our nations obesity crisis, but I do know that if you are reading my blog you have no excuses for not exercising and eating right. Realize how lucky you are, that you have the resources to make good food choices and you understand the benefits of exercise. Now go get some exercise!

About Lisa Van Dore

I have lived in Sherborn, Dover and most recently North Walpole, for a total of 15 years (and counting). Having recently been through the process of selling a home and buying (and renovating) a new one, I understand the conflicting emotions of excitement and anxiety inherent in the process, whether you are a seller or buyer, whether this is your first home purchase or your tenth. I have a BA from the University of Michigan and an MBA from Indiana University. My early career found me working as a CPA, and later as the controller of Crate & Barrel. More recently I spent seven years running my own personal training business. I understand the hard work and dedication necessary to build a business and a reputation...most of my personal training clients came to me by referral and my first client was still with me when I decided to leave personal training. This speaks to the level of effort I put forth for my clients, week after week. On a more personal note, I raced triathlon for seven years and more recently completed my first half marathon. In my free time I enjoy cooking, reading, Maine, hiking and, in the fall, following college football...my teams are the University of Michigan (Go Blue!) and Texas Christian University (Go Frogs!).

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