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As a new year begins, here are some of the things for which I am grateful.
The State of NC: On January 2, a new law bans smoking in bars and restaurants and in all state buildings and vehicles. As a non-smoker, I applaud this law with a standing ovation!
Central Piedmont
Community College: Also taking effect on January 2, all six CPCC
campuses become tobacco-free. The college’s Web site states in part
“that tobacco-free campuses model healthy behaviors and offer
individuals of all ages a healthier place to learn, work and visit.”
Lincoln University: The nations first HBCU, in Oxford, Penn., (outside
Philadelphia ) made recent headlines with its bold stance requiring
students to enroll in fitness courses if their BMI (body mass index)
exceeded 30, which is considered obese. The requirement, albeit
controversial, was later made voluntary.
Healthy Snacks: A few of my favorites -- dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, fresh fruit and a handful of nuts (walnuts, almonds, etc.). Besides their great taste, all are good for the body. In fact, researchers at Harvard report that women who regularly eat nuts five times per week are less likely to develop type 2 diabetes versus those who don’t.
Healthy Herbs: Adding these five herbs to your home could work wonders for the body and pallet. Cinnamon (the USDA reports this herb may lower cholesterol and slow the proliferation of leukemia cancer cells), Rosemary (helps protects brain cells from aging and free radicals leading to Alzheimer’s, say scientists from Burham Institute for Medical Research), Sage (aids in preventing tissue damage from high-blood pressure and adds protection against cardio vascular disease), Turmeric (an Indian spice that helps prevent joint inflammation), and Parsley, contains iron, Vitamin C and flavonoids, to help protect cells from cancer, says the American Institute for Cancer Research.
Diversity in Fitness: Zumba (Latin-inspired aerobics), Cardioke (fitness/song/dance) developed by Billy Blanks, Jr. son of fitness guru Billy Blanks Sr. and pole dancing classes, which are not just for strippers. Need I say more?
Fitness Mentors: My mother, a former basketball player, encouraged me to play sports and laid the foundation for my love of fitness. Mrs. Coppick, former high-school track coach & gym teacher, was toned, cool and made fitness fun. Arlene Finklea and Candace Lee: their high-impact, fierce fitness classes inspired me to teach aerobics 13 years ago. Cynthia McAfee Smith: roughly 10 years ago, she took a chance and hired me to teach aerobics, a part-time job I hold today.
Health Food Stores: Although small in space, Kamit Natural Foods, Charlotte’s lone African-American owned health food store, was opened long before retail chains arrived in the area. Honorable mention: Trader Joes. Like Kamit Natural Foods, Trader Joes has excellent customer service, knowledgeable staff eager to assist and, best of all, its prices are cheap.
Fit First Family: President Obama’s six-pack and First Lady Michelle Obama’s arms have hopefully inspired others and undoubtedly added to new gym memberships.
Glenn Burkins (Publisher, Qcitymetro.com): For bringing the dream of Qcitymetro.com to fruition. Because of your vision, Charlotte has become a better place.
And to you, the Qcitymetro.com family, thank you for taking this fitness journey with me.
Stay healthy. Stay well in 2010!
Sondra E. Z. Hines is an adjunct professor of health and wellness and is certified to teach group fitness and Zumba. Email: sondraezhines@yahoo.com.
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