HEALTH & WELLNESS
Being inspired is key to fitness
As I enter my 25th year in law enforcement with the Union City Police
Department, fitness and staying in shape have become even more im-
portant to me. Being a veteran officer, I notice there are many younger
officers who don’t exercise. I also feel that officers should always look
their best in uniform and be proud to wear it. I live by the phrase, “Lead
by example.”
About six months ago, I made the choice to step up my workouts and
push for a goal: to trim weight and body fat. Since then, I have lost more
CHRIS
SCARDINO than 20 pounds and reduced my body fat by nearly 8 percent.
There is something I have believed in while pushing for any goal. I
call it the three Ds: dedication, determination and devotion. Driven by the three Ds,
I can’t lose. Then, a friend of mine named Angel gave me my final drive to reach my
goal. This person inspired me in a way that no one else had in the past. I had worked
out for years, but now I am in second gear and there is no stopping me. I have not
missed a day in the gym in almost six months.
It’s a good feeling when I am working out. When a person stops me and asks, “Why
do you train the way that you do?” my answer is always the same.
“I’m inspired by a someone (Angel). It’s a great feeling. Being lucky enough to be
inspired by someone or something is a positive thing. It’s a gift. Hold on to it and
never give it back.”
About two months ago, I made the final decision. I was going to compete in my first
men’s physique competition. Fitness is key along with a balanced diet. When you put
both of these together along with inspiration, you can’t lose. d
Chris Scardino is the State Delegate for Union City Local 8.
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NEW JERSEY COPS
■ OCTOBER 2017