An age group that is often overlooked when it comes to focusing on physical fitness is the young adult, ages 18 to 30.

This group is at a stage in life where things may be unstable. Life after high school brings adjustments to living on your own and realizing that life holds many challenges. Sometimes there are false starts and failures at school, relationships or a new job. These events take center stage and physical fitness is often neglected.

After high school, we discover the power of freedom of choice. We can eat what we want, when we want it, and also do pretty much what we want outside of our working hours. Before long we realize that each choice carries with it a consequence. This is true in fitness, nutrition and overall well-being.

Many of us were raised with little education in this area, which creates an obviously difficult situation. We quickly learn that if we don't perform at work, we can lose our job. If we neglect a relationship, we can lose that, too. Many times, we haven't had to pay particular attention to our bodies since they've served us well, but now, with neglect, we may be gaining weight, getting winded with physical exertion and feeling tired much of the time -- a result of ignoring fitness and nutrition.

I find that many people in this age group perceive themselves as still being in good physical condition. Many don't appear out of shape, or if they do, they feel that they can get back in shape when they're ready.

Let me hit you with a bit of reality: Through poor nutrition and lack of exercise, you can slow your metabolism, which slows your body's ability to burn calories. This takes place naturally around the age of 30. The poor choices you make now will catch up to you later on.

This includes poor choices of the substances we allow into our bodies. The choices we make today affect not only our futures, but also the people whom we will come to love later in life as well. Make a choice today to commit to exercise, healthy eating and other positive habits.

Troy Fontana owns Fontana Fitness in Sparks. For more information, call 331-6918 or e-mail Getfit@FontanaFitness.com.