Forget The Swine Flu, Remember The Facts

Are any of us safe? Plastered everywhere in newspapers, magazines, the internet, and in everyone’s mind is the need to take caution against the sudden Swine Flu epidemic. Hypothetically speaking, if I were to tell you, Faithful Reader, that we currently have a much larger, much more serious epidemic right under our own noses affecting the health and lives of millions of people worldwide… would you believe me?


It ceases to amaze me how our country is responding to this Swine Flu outbreak. I don’t mean to be insensitive because it is a serious matter that we should behold and take seriously, but does it make sense to see a person going through such desperate measures as to wear a mask in public so as not to become infected, then to proceed in removing the mask for a smoke break… Am I the only one concerned about this? What I don’t understand is why the everyday epidemics affecting hundreds of thousands and millions of people aren’t getting such attention. Why don’t we see people herding to the gym to prevent the 1,700,000 new cases of diabetes a year, or the 233,600 diabetes-related deaths each year? Why aren’t people rushing to buy organically grown, chemical- and pesticide-free foods to prevent the 600,000 myocardial infarctions and 451,300 coronary heart disease-related deaths each year? People are literally ingesting food without second thought that is potentially more dangerous than any Swine Flu or the like. Folks, the sad reality is that these numbers are real and they are only increasing by the year.


As health care providers, it is our responsibility to see that we commit 100% to doing all that we can to prevent these massive numbers from becoming any higher and to educate our clients on how to become ‘healthy’. Take a minute to yourself and reconsider what it is you are really trying to accomplish as a health and wellness professional and what steps you are taking to make your goals and ideas a reality. Ask yourself if your own lifestyle priorities are in check. How are we supposed to educate and help another human being if we aren’t trying to educate and help ourselves? Another true fact: ‘90% of health care practitioners are unhealthier than their clients.’ Is this a reputation we are willing to let stand? Or are you ready to make a change in your life and encourage those around you to do the same? Naturally, this large percentage can mean many different things seeing as though many people in the health industry aren’t qualified, certified or aren’t regular practitioners because they can’t practice what they don’t have knowledge of. But the point here is that somehow, these people are giving the rest of us a bad name. If we expect anyone to listen to us, then we better know better than anyone else what we are talking about. In this day and age, our clients have access to the largest database in the world (also known as the internet) and we need to be sure they are receiving legitimate information. Once again, forget about the swine flu, we have bigger issues at hand.


Currently, at Connect To Fitness, we are looking for individuals who want to voice their expertise in the field and who want to get the word out on what it is they do or are trying to accomplish. This will not only provide exposure for professionals, but it will be an educational tool we can all connect to and use to our advantage in dealing with clients. It never hurts to be the one with options, whether it’s a referral, knowing what may be new and upcoming in the industry, or just simply being able to learn and teach those around you something they, themselves, may not be educated in. We are seeking individuals like yourself who may be interested, or maybe you know someone who you feel has a great story to tell and who deserves the spotlight. Those interviewed will be featured in Connect To Fitness’s monthly newsletter and will be distributed on the 1st of the month each month. You can look forward to that as well.


You can also look forward to another Connect To Fitness Event being held this Thursday from 7:00-10:00pm at Club Sport Green Valley. This mixer is for anyone who wants to make these connections that will ultimately benefit their own future and well-being. Please stop by for a great time as we will have live music, food and drink specials and, of course, great company. This event is very informal and all we ask you to bring is your passion for health, fitness and wellness and maybe a little fun and we look forward to seeing you there! The events we hold are also another opportunity or venue for those of you who may want to invite other professionals and aspiring professionals to your facility or if you know someone else who may be interested. It never hurts to have exposure and to get to know and educate others on what it is that makes you a success.


If you have any information regarding interviewing or holding a CTF Event, please contact either myself or Dr. Darian Parker at ConnectToFitness@gmail.com.


As professionals, it is our job to be the best we can be and to walk our talk. Statistics can either prevail or we can do something together to create the change needed to change these facts. If we are willing to make a continual effort to live what we philosophize to others, it will not only keep the essentials fresh in our own minds, but it will allow us to be the role models our clients see in us. Keep fresh on what’s happening in the industry and make connections! You never know when you, Faithful Reader, will stumble upon a time when you, too, will need someone else’s help to accomplish a common goal. Live your talk and walk your walk!


It is our knowledge and expertise that our clients and patients seek of us. They are dependent upon us to be their ‘Life Changers’ and to guide them to the path of success. Are you going to allow yourself to become just another statistic?