Dionne Ross is a Fitness Coach in Austin. You may be familiar with her if you watch FOX 7 news and the Direct TV Liquidation channel. Ujima wanted to get the new scoop on her new fitness video and tips for staying healthy, especially during the holiday season.
Ross grew up participating in pageants and staying in shape that was the beginning of her love for fitness and exercise. As she continued through graduate school, she read the statistics of African Americans having a higher rate of Diabetes and High Blood Pressure and realized we need to be more enthusiastic about our health and fitness and become more effective in reaching people of color.
Ross is very excited about her new fitness video. The video will be called Cardio Drum, Fitness Around the World. Each video will introduce cultures from around the world. The first video will feature West African Dance. Her goal is to be able to shoot videos in various locations, but for now they will be shot here in Austin. Her next planned video will be Brazilian dancing to drums. Dancing to drums is very empowering and a new way to motivate you to exercise. A person will learn about culture and dance at the same time. An important message Ujima found in speaking with Ross, when it comes to exercise, find what works for you. Be realistic about your schedule. One mistake commonly made is participating in an exercise you do not enjoy. If you prefer to play tennis instead of running then do that. You will be more committed and get more out of it.
During the holidays, we all love to eat and enjoy mama’s cooking. Ross has some tips on how to maintain your exercise and stay in shape during this time. These tips can also be used at any time. If you start a routine stick to it. “Do not set goals that are not realistic for you. Take the small steps and you will receive small victories,” stated Ross. Do things in moderation and stay active. You should re-define entertainment. You can do an outdoor activity versus sitting and watching a movie. Ross stated, “surround yourself with like-minded people who have goals similar to your own.” For encouragement, she suggested you take charge of your health. It may take a different perspective of putting yourself first but you should. Ross stated, “re-define what good food is. We have habits, but we also have choices.” See your physicians when needed.
Ross leaves us with one powerful statement. She stated, “we have one life on earth, how do you want to live it?”
You can purchase Ross’ videos at Dionne@dionneross.com.
