‘Living the GoodLife’ Member Profile: Joe Porcaro
Joe Porcaro
Embracing Wellness, One Step at a Time
By Maquita Sellers, exercise physiologist, GoodLife Fitness, Jerome Home
How long have you been in the program and how did you start?
My participation in the GoodLife Fitness program started approximately three and one-half years ago. Previously, I exercised at the Hospital of Central Connecticut for seven years.
What has been your biggest accomplishment since starting and what are your future goals?
Self-imposed goals that were established included replacement of muscle mass due to normal aging, and improved posture and balance. Significant accomplishments have been no reduction of daily activities and tasks as I have aged. Continue with the same lifestyle as during your younger years. There is a general feeling of well-being.
What is your favorite part about the GoodLife Fitness Program?
The program of GoodLife Fitness includes a regimen of exercises that are customized for the individual person by an exercise physiologist. These regimens are revised every 10 to 12 sessions. I enjoy the challenges of the new exercises and their continual upgrade.
How do you define “wellness”?
My definition of “wellness” is the physical and mental ability to enable an active and robust lifestyle. I intuitively believe that the complete range of benefits derived from exercise have yet to be scientifically discovered. Wellness is also coupled with weight as based on body mass index. Consistent nutritious and healthy eating is imperative. “We are what we eat.”
What advice would you give to new or prospective members of the GoodLife Fitness program?
There is a certain level of mental inertia that exists prior to the start of an exercise program. Each prospective participant of GoodLife Fitness should attempt to prevail over this inertia. Allow yourself to start. You will accomplish more than you could ever have anticipated. Your body will take control and the mental inertia will disappear.
What is your recipe for healthy aging?
Healthy aging is the awareness that we are responsible for both our physical and mental well-being. We should continue to maintain our overall health as we age. Attention to body weight and diet is essential.
What motivates you to “Live the GoodLife”?
Self-motivation and a sense of responsibility to family and society are strong reasons to live the “GoodLife”. Active participation with my children and grandchildren is possible due to over 10 years of physical exercise. Hiking, horseback riding, zip-lining, rope courses, swimming, Segway and other family activities have occurred. Exercise enables wonderful memories with family.