According to a 2015 article I found at the Washington Post here stating that the average adult American weighs in at almost 30 pounds more than in 1960. The article attributes this to 3 causes:

1)  Americans are eating less healthy food

2)  We are consuming more of it

3) We are moving less than in years past

I would also add from my research that more Americans are relying upon the government to provide a health care program to keep them well, along with more prescription medicines for ailments that might be otherwise managed personally by a healthier diet, physical activity or lifestyle choices.

Americans are also spending more than ever on healthcare, expected to rise to about $13,387 annually by 2020.

So we are spending more money on healthcare but becoming less healthy as a nation; crazy no?

Some healthy options that cost far less, could be considered an investment in ones own wellness. However, these all require effort and a willingness to be proactive in maintaining the individual’s own fitness level. I am partial to the Eastern methods as they have pasted the test of time and I have personally benefited from over 35 years of study and practice in these methods.

I based these costs all for a year worth of local (Orlando area) classes as I feel 1 year is a realistic amount of time to invest in becoming proficient in any area of self-improvement:

LA Fitness (unlimited) for 1 year                                             $300

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Personal Trainer ($25 per class, 2x per week for 1 year)      $2400

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Yoga classes (unlimited) for 1 year                                          $750

(or $12 per class, 2x per week for 52 weeks $1248)

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My Instruction:

Tai Chi classes (basic recreational classes, $8 per class, 2x per week for 1 year – $768

Qigong, Tai Chi & other Eastern methods, $25 per class, 2x per week for 1 year – $2600

Group classes are ongoing on Mondays & Fridays at 11:30am-12:30pm at the Winter Park Presbyterian Church at 400 S. Lakemont Avenue in Winter Park, FL. Private or semi-private classes are held in Longwood (Wekiva), FL.

Other locations and classes are occasionally added as interest and opportunities are presented to me. I am looking to continue to grow my community of like-minded individuals who understand the importance of investing in their own “health care program” being that of developing their mind, body and spirit to their fullest potential. I offer classes ranging from the casual, follow-along classes to the more goal-oriented programs for rejuvenation, longevity and cultivation of a higher consciousness.

For more information see www.MindAndBodyMartialArts.com