According to the Department for State Health Services Obesity Data Sheet May 2010, nearly 70 percent of adults in San Antonio were overweight or obese in 2009.

Obesity is one of the leading causes of diabetes and heart disease, which may lead to an early death. Two solutions for improving your health and wellness are improved nutrition and exercise.

Exercise is a key to a successful life. According to Anna Bustamante, Kinesiology department chair, every little bit helps. The more you move, the more you will be able to move. It really just takes the motivation to get up and do it.

Palo Alto has many resources to assist in getting you healthy and fit. The Olympic-sized pool, weight room and a new cardio room may be used at no cost to students, faculty or staff with a valid Banner ID card. Plus, a .86 mile walking and fitness trail that was built last year may be used by anyone. Kinesiology classes are offered for college credit year round.

Samantha Tripas, a student at Palo Alto College noticed a difference after taking the Kick Boxing I course.

"I recommend Professor Bustamante for classes here," said Tripas. "I can do more sit-ups, and the music Professor Bustamante plays pumps me up."

Exercise 30 minutes most days and pick something you enjoy doing. The more you move, the better you will feel, and the more calories you will burn.

Nutrition is another key factor, because your body needs fuel to make energy. Fruits and vegetables provide high nutritional value. When deciding what to eat, it is best to cover your plate with many colors. This insures you are giving yourself a broad range of nutrients.

"Nutrition is not being perfect; it is being good most of the time," said Alexis Lowe, a Kinesiology instructor at Palo Alto College. Lowe also suggests thinking ahead. Instead of spending $15 at a fast food restaurant, spend it at a grocery store. With the same $15, you can buy whole grain bread, lean lunchmeat, low fat cheese, fruits and vegetables. This meal goes farther and is healthier than fast food.

Water consumption is another important part of nutrition. Lowe suggests consuming a minimum of eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily. Many times we eat because we are thirsty. When we are thirsty, we ignore our bodies, so our bodies make us hungry and we eat food that is rich with water. Keep a reusable bottle of water handy throughout the day. In doing this, you are less likely to crave foods.

It’s never too late to start living a healthier life. Changing nutrition and exercise will put you on the road to a longer life. Take your time; changing your whole lifestyle at once may overwhelm you. Take gradual steps. Set short-term goals. When those goals are reached, make new ones. Don’t wait! Start today. Fill up your water bottle, grab an apple and walk to class. You are on your way to a healthier you.