“The Quill” Quinn Conyers Blog

Fun and Fit

Right about now many people are beginning to work out to get “right” for summer. Obesity is a growing problem in the Black community especially for Black women and children. First Lady Michelle Obama has even started an initiative to fight childhood obesity. What is even more disturbing are the reasons why Black women fail to work out. The top reason being they don’t want to ruin their hair. Your health or your hair? That is the question.

 You would think the top reasons would be they don’t want to pay gym memberships or hire a personal trainer. Sadly, many Black women and people in general are at risk of diabetes, high blood pressure and strokes because of lack of physical activity. I must admit, I didn’t want to ruin my hair because of working out. However, I quickly found an alternative after deciding my health was much more important that my hair.  I invested in a sew-in weave hair style which last longer and protects your own hair. I also joined a bootcamp class at the YMCA. Additionally, I joined the Y Fitness Challenge which encourages you to turn in meal plans and tracks your percentage of weight loss.

 I wasn’t a true fan of treadmills or elliptical and found it very hard to stay committed to the workout regimen. I enjoy the bootcamp classes and the total body workout. I also enjoy working out in a team setting versus as an individual. I encourage all of us to add physical activity into your daily routine. The gym isn’t always the answer and personal trainers can be effective but costly. Either way, as a community we need to invest in our health and add more activity in our daily lives.  Listed below are a few innovative ways for Black women to have fun and stay fit all while protecting their hair:  

• Get your hair Braided!  (Styles include, micro mini’s, corn rolls, boxed braided 2-strand twist, etc )
• Get a Sew-In Weave! (This style protect your natural hair and can last up to 4 months)
• Go Natural! (Grow your perm or relaxer out)
• Avoid wearing a cap while exercising!  (Your glands need to breathe and wearing caps will actually block your sweat glands)
• Wear cotton Headbands! (They absorb sweat and prevent hair from falling in your face)
• Let your hair breathe! (Tie it up or back, pin curl it or try a satin or silk scarf)

Have fun and get fit!

Quinn