Dan's stepfather, Joe, is a shining example of the benefits of good nutrition and exercise. He eats a well-balanced diet and works out at least five mornings each week. When you meet Joe you think, "Wow, this guy looks great for being in his 50s." The truth is that he's in his 80's.

Joe introduced Dan to fitness. At age 13, Dan was the proverbial 100-pound weakling. But thanks to Joe that all changed when Dan started weightlifting. What Joe didn't know was that the seed he planted not only set Dan on a fitness path for life, it also shaped his entire adult career!

Jennifer's dad, Ray, raised seven kids. Jennifer is the second of the seven and was born with severe allergies, many of which involved food. It was Ray that decided to change the way his whole family ate. He shifted their focus to non-processed whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and non-dairy products. While his initial intentions were to help his daughter alleviate allergy symptoms, what he actually did was start the entire family on a path of good health.

If you're a dad, realize that you have a tremendous influence on your family, one way or another. If you don't take care of yourself you won't be around very long to shape lives, and that's probably not the kind of influence you had in mind. Even if you aren't worried about your own health, remember your children are watching every move. Your example could make the difference between them growing up to be healthy adults instead of obese ones.

Exercise and good nutrition don't have to be torture. Make fitness a family affair, and make it fun. Everyone benefits from family hikes, bike rides and setting down to healthy meals together. And it all begins with fathers willing to take the lead.

Book Dan Polimino to speak at your next meeting or event today. For program information contact us at info@BookDan.com, visit www.BookDan.com or call 303-683-4795.