In the Wellness Spotlight: David Gayton

 by Gail McKinney

A Star is Born!

Our Wellness Spotlight is focused directly on our featured Wellness member Mr. David Gaytan, UTB/TSC Transcript Evaluator.  David has been an active member of the Wellness program for approximately two years.  He captured and holds the number one position of this semester’s Top Ten Wellness Performers.  He completed a whopping 13,620 minutes to earn the coveted number one position.  David’s quest started about seven years ago when he decided to drop a few pounds, reduce his stress level and eat healthier foods.  It has become David’s way of life.  He has successfully dropped 20 pounds and has kept them off to date.  So, how did  he do it?  David offers the following words of advice and experience that worked for him.

How I did it!

  1. Consult your physician BEFORE you begin any exercise program.  It’s better to be safe than sorry.
  2. Start out slowly by walking first and then advancing up to jogging. Don’t allow yourself to get “burned out.”  Listen to music as you walk.  Add in variation. If you enjoy walking, try different locations.
  3. Concentrate on cardiovascular vascular exercises.  David enjoys jogging, kick-boxing, stationary cycling and lifting weights for strength training.
  4. Drink plenty of fluids.  David drinks ONE GALLON of water every day.  It’s not only good for you but it also makes you “feel full,” and you’ll eat less.
  5. Eat healthier snacks.  Keep plenty of fruits and vegetables on hand.  Reach for an apple and  ditch those calorie filled chips and dips.
  6. Exercise reduces your stress level.  David stated that ever since he started working out seven years ago, he feels both mentally and physically healthier.

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