$1500 for Obesity or Personal Training, Your Choice

On Average, obesity increases an individual's health care costs by $1500 annually. I am sure that most Americans can figure out several better ways to spend that kind of money. Suddenly, the value menu doesn’t seem to be much of a value, does it? While there are a great many things that $1500 can buy, let's stay in the health and fitness realm for now. As a complete 180 degrees from obesity costs, let 's put this money toward personal training sessions. How far can we go? What will the pay off be? What will the return on that investment be?

Personal training session rates vary across the country. Generally, the more expensive places will be in cities such as New York City. For my research, I used the trainer profiles of the personal trainers, pilates instructors, yoga instructors, health coaches, and nutritionists on NeighborhoodTrainer.com. The rates will run the gamut, but it is safe to say that session rates can run from $60-$150 for a single session. Plus, keep in mind, that most fitness professionals will discount their session rates if you pre-pay for a number of sessions. By these numbers, it is safe to say that you could secure upwards of 20-30 sessions. Enough sessions to cover one session a week for about 4-6 months. You should be well on your way to shaving away the old you by then.

After that much time, where does that leave? Was it worth it? You're darn right it was worth it. Chances are, if you safely lost the recommended 1-2 pounds a week, you are probably 20-60 pounds trimmer than before, depending on your starting point and needs, as well. Those may not be Biggest Loser numbers, but life is no game show. Moreover, it is the quality of life changes you will experience. In short, losing weight will lead to more energetic days and restful nights.

One cannot talk about all the benefits without talking finances. The whole premise behind this piece is how much more expensive it is to be obese. Will you save money by maintaining a healthy weight. In short, yes. Moreover, you can make better use of your money. You could invest it, join a gym, get a personal trainer, home improvement, the list can go on for a long time. What this illustrates is that there are much better uses for your money than paying additional medical expenses.

Ultimately, it is your choice as to what you want to spend your money on, but rich or poor, I can’t think of anyone who would consciously want to spend extra money to live as an overweight person. Yes, there are people with medical conditions that lead to obesity. They need the extra help. Our healthcare dollars should be spent on helping them. However, approximately 80% of obesity is preventable by diet and exercise. If you need help in these areas, consider seeking the help of a New York City nutritionist or NYC personal trainer to help set you on the right path. Remember, before starting any physical fitness or nutritional program, be sure to discuss it with your primary care physician. Not only will this help make sure that you are ready to begin a fitness program, but it will give you the best before comparison possible for assessing your progress.