PULSE CHECK: Becky Towe, personal trainer with the City of Cape Girardeau and owner of The Anatomy Studio

Job title: Certified personal trainer in strength, fitness, aerobics and nutrition

Specialties: Core training, weight loss, strength training

Education: My background includes emergency medicine, and I am currently working toward a Ph.D. in behavioral modification.

What do women need to know if they've never worked with a personal trainer before? Why is it worth it and what can they expect?

Make sure your trainer is certified, ask questions and make sure their personality fits you. People go into the gym every day and work out incorrectly, then become frustrated if they don't see results or they become injured. Most injuries are due to improper kinetic movement and no core development. Also, having a trainer that is certified in nutrition is always a bonus -- nutrition and working out go hand and hand. Without proper nutrition and working out, you will not see the full potential of your fitness goal. What you should except from your trainer is guidance, proper form correction and setting you on a consistent fitness plan for your goals.

Many of us have made New Year's resolutions to lose weight and get in shape. What advice do you have for coming up with an exercise routine and sticking to it?

Consistency is when you see results. Be honest with yourself on what you are willing to do and be consistent with doing it. When you are consistent with a proper workout and nutrition plan, you will achieve your fitness goals.

Where are your favorite places to exercise in Southeast Missouri?

The Osage Centre for an inside place it is super affordable with no contracts -- just pay as you visit -- and it has every piece of equipment that I suggest for use with my clients. The Cape Girardeau City trail for outside; it is one of the most amazing places to be able to run, walk or bike on a beautiful day.

What is your best overall health advice for women?

Believe in yourself, stay balanced, make time for yourself, work out, nutrition, mental health and don't forget to listen to your body. With a properly designed workout, good nutrition and being able to de-stress, you will live a happier, healthier life. Also, don't forget your yearly physicals. This can help you and your doctors see precursors to a bad situation before it ever happens.