Nutrition by Dawn - Blog

I hope your holiday season was joyful and restorative! I want to touch on something that might not seem exciting at first—data. But before you scroll away, hear me out! The right data can transform how you approach your health and fitness journey, and I’m excited to share how it’s been a game-changer for me.

What Does “Healthy” Mean to You?

“Healthy” is a deeply personal concept. For me, it’s never about the number on the scale. It’s about living pain-free, staying active, and creating a future where I can move with ease. I picture myself getting up and down from the floor with (potential!) grandkids or playing pickleball with my son for years to come. This mindset guided me to explore health metrics that go beyond traditional measures over the holiday break. These tools could benefit anyone who’s prioritizing long-term wellness, and I want to share what I discovered.

A Gait Analysis for Injury Prevention

My son, a third-degree black belt, recently completed a gait and movement analysis and also a force plate analysis. With just a few minor tweaks to his running gait, his movement improved significantly, reducing the likelihood of future injuries. This type of analysis isn’t just for athletes. It’s a valuable tool to spot potential issues and make corrections early—before they become major problems. If I’d had access to this kind of insight years ago, I might have avoided some of the joint replacements I’ve already undergone (and the ones I’m still facing).

My First DXA Scan: A Look at Bone Health

I've always been curious about my bone density, especially since it’s a key factor in predicting fractures and injuries as we age. So, I finally took the plunge and did my first DXA scan, which measures bone density throughout the body. The results were encouraging: my bone density is solidly in the green zone everywhere except my lumbar spine. This didn’t surprise me, as I’ve dealt with stenosis and discomfort in that area. But the team provided targeted recommendations to safely strengthen my lower back—and I’m excited to see what progress I can make over the next year.

Why This Data Matters

The insights from these tests are practical and actionable. For my son, improving his running gait means he’s set up for more years of pain-free activity. For me, understanding my bone density gives me a clear focus area to work on so I can maintain mobility and independence as I age. This type of data empowers us to be proactive. It allows us to shape the outcomes we want and create a future where we can continue doing the things we love. Whether you’re looking out for yourself or your clients, exploring these kinds of health metrics can be a total game-changer.

What’s Next for You?

As you think about your own health goals, consider these questions:

• What does “healthy” mean to me?

• What data points could help me make informed decisions about my well-being?

• How can I use this information to stay active and injury-free in the long term?

At the end of the day, my wish for you remains the same: to live a life you love, filled with the things that bring you joy. Let’s make this year about building a healthier, happier future—one data point at a time.