by Dan | Sep 4, 2011 | Exercise, Weather, Wellness/Health

The best way to protect yourself against skin cancer, whether melanoma or other type, is prevention. Starting with what you wear can make a big difference. Here I have a hat on, and one that would even be better is one with sides on to cover the ears. I have a swim shirt with a SPF factor of 50 on, and long swim shorts. The other thing to keep in mind is the sunscreen. You want sunscreens that can block both UVA and UVB light. Sunscreens with an SPF factor of 50, or sun protection factor of 50, more effectively block UVA with a higher SPF factor. Below are some examples.

Sunscreens come with different SPF ratings, some as a cream, some as a spray on. You want one that is more water or sweat proof. For me, with my light complexion, I use a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 100. They never had this when I was younger, and I have been burned enough times that I do not take any chances anymore. I can spend time outside, either working, exercising, playing, whatever, and not worry about getting burned, which in the long run, increases your potential for the development of skin cancer. The things you do today, will pay dividends in the future…in regards to many things!
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 1440
by Dan | Aug 28, 2011 | Exercise, Family, Goals, Motivation, Wellness/Health

The Reiffenberger Family, all geared up with examples of their favorite type of exercise…ranging from swimming, to biking, to running. As a parent, your children learn best by example. You set the tone, and it is much easier for your kids to follow and stay active. Their interest in sports may be different, but that is OK. The goal is to help enusre that they stay active. For me, running, biking, exercise in general–is a refuge, from work, the chaos and stress of raising 3 children, and just the everyday stress and struggles of life. It is not just about escape though. I love to exercise, and the feeling it gives me. I have more energy, I am staying healthier, and I have the stamina to keep up with my kids. I am living life to the fullest. After all, is that not what life is about? A special thanks to Cory Ann Ellis, friend, and family photographer, for capturing a great moment that will end up hanging up in our house.
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 1433
by Dan | Aug 27, 2011 | Exercise, Family, Goals, Wellness/Health

The Cross Country season is under way for the school year as of yesterday with the first Watertown home meet. It ended up being a very warm afternoon for a race, but considering the usual weather for Cross Country, this was great. Here Nick is running, and really enjoys the sport. He spent a good part of the summer running and biking to get ready.

Here Molly is in her race. Both did well for the first meet of the year. A lot of work lies ahead, but they are up for the challenge. They have a friendly rivalry between themselves, not to mention with Dad! I think they realize maybe Dad is not as slow as they think he should be. We all have fun together, and it makes for a good activity/sport that we can do together, and you don’t need any special equipment to do it. Enjoy the weekend.
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 1432
by Dan | Aug 21, 2011 | Exercise, Family, Motivation, Weather, Wellness/Health

Great weekend for weather, and even better for hanging out at the Lake. Spent the weekend with some friends, and had a bonfire Sat night, then to the Lake sunday. Very relaxing. Our friend even went on a bike ride with us this AM, so we got our exercise in early.

Here are some of us enjoying the water activities. Great to just relax and have fun, and leave the pressures of everyday hectic life behind for awhile. We all need days like this. Take advantage of the weather yet, and spend as much time outside as you can. Good dive into the water Ayden! It was fun Kaleb, and Cory Ann, always good to see you. It was a fun weekend. Family and Friends–important to focus on the important things in life. It was good for me to get out, and not try to be working on something, or just working. Thanks!
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 1426
by Dan | Aug 16, 2011 | Exercise, Motivation, Weather, Wellness/Health

Don’t forget when you go out to walk, run, bike, or any other kind of exercise, that you don’t forget to look around and enjoy the scenery. It is so much more enjoyable to be outside and look around compared to being inside on a treadmill. Early in the morning especially, when the sun first starts coming up, it is so peaceful outside. It makes the exercise almost effortless.

It is amazing to listen to the sounds of nature, and enjoy the different colors. When walking early this AM, and it was a great way to get the day started. Easy to get fired up and motivated during the summer time when he can spend lots of time outside. Don’t waste it! The summer is going fast!
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 1421
by Dan | Aug 13, 2011 | Exercise, Family, Goals, Motivation, Wellness/Health

Wow! No “ordina”ry weekend. My twin brother, Don, after following his dreams, and achieving his goals, had his ordination ceremony friday night, being ordained a lutheran minister. Whatever our dreams, whatever our beliefs, we all have the right to make OUR OWN INDEPENDENT CHOICES…and it is up to us to follow our choices. We have the freedom to choose our path in life. We also have the freedom to choose about what we do in regards to our health, in most instances. We can either exercise and watch our diet, and be healthier, reaping the benefits of this, or choose not to, and deal with all of the ramifications that can come about as a result.

I just want to say, “I am proud of you, Bro!” You made your dream come true. Your wife, kids, and the rest of your family were behind you, and it was great seeing things come to reality for you. You made a good CHOICE! Follow along as I continue to discuss about things in life/issues that help influence our choices.
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 1418