John Carlson’s avocation for the last twenty-five years has been improving the health and lifestyles of anyone and everyone who will listen.

Though John was in fairly good shape all his life, having been active in sports and serving in the U.S. Army as an Airborne-Ranger, it wasn’t until President Gerald R. Ford asked him to take on the additional duty of White House liaison to the President’s Council on Physical Fitness & Sports that he began seriously studying, taking and teaching classes on exercise, fitness and nutrition.  (John was Deputy Press Secretary to the President at that time). 

Since then, John has become very active in the world of health and fitness.  John’s enthusiasm, knowledge and passion for good health and an improved way of life, combined with humor and humility, is contagious and has made him a sought after instructor and speaker.  He has spoken at various conferences and seminars around the globe.  As an example, John was the keynote speaker at the World Health Forum in Beijing, China, addressing 1000 participants from 26 countries. 

He believes that to have a healthy and productive lifestyle, you not only need to exercise regularly, but combine this with good eating habits and nutrition. John urges his audiences and clients to exercise daily, eat well and drink moderately, which will result in a body with more energy, enthusiasm and youthfulness than at any previous time in your life.

As a certified personal trainer by the American Council on Exercise, (ACE) John works with all age groups, but has special empathy and patience in working with seniors and those with special needs over 50 years of age. 

John believes a daily routine of physical activity gets more important as you age – not only to prevent weight gain and chronic illness, but also to keep the brain sharp.  Studies have shown that even small amounts of moderate exercise can help reduce the risk of dementia.  In addition to cardiovascular exercise and strength training, John advises working on the core (lower back and stomach) for balance and flexibility, which can help protect against falls and injury in later life. He believes in using lighter weights with many repetitions, as well as regular walking and/or riding a stationary bike to strengthen and tone the body.

Beyond exercise and a balanced and varied diet of whole grains, lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, vitamin supplementation becomes increasingly important in older age as the body’s ability to absorb vital nutrients from food diminishes.  Therefore, John always includes in discussions the need to take specific vitamins with any exercise program.

Bottom line, Carlson preaches that to keep a sound mind and body, you must workout a minimum of three times a week, include cardio and weight bearing exercises, remain active physically and socially, and not smoke.  If you follow this advice, you will retain mental acuity and a toned body well into your most enjoyable years.