Reflections on My Fitness Journey

A trainer at my gym recently asked me to submit an article for the monthly newsletter; I’m sharing it with you and hoping you’re doing something each day to stay healthy.  If you’re in the Charlotte area, I invite you to check out a free workout at Elements for Women – tell ‘em Kayren sent ya!
 
Special thanks to Kevin Mills (my fellow Paper Polisher) for his expert editing of this piece! 🙂  

I’ve encountered my share of speed bumps on the road to personal health and wellness in my lifetime.  Admittedly, many were self-imposed.  When I finally got serious about making some positive changes for a healthier lifestyle (instead of desperately grasping at the latest weight loss scheme), Elements was there with a support system designed to ensure my success. 

Since I started working out again (after my long hiatus), Elements has been like training wheels on a bike, bumpers at the bowling alley, and safety scissors – all rolled into one.  The staff helps me celebrate my small victories, challenges me to set goals, and pushes me straight out of my comfort zone.  Truthfully, I look forward to seeing other class participants on a regular basis.  It’s become so much more than just a gym – it’s a community.

Before joining Elements, my weight loss plan basically consisted of getting my wisdom teeth extracted.   Today, however, I understand the importance of incorporating physical activity into my schedule at least 3 times a week.  And after sweating non-stop for a full 45 minutes, it’s much easier to choose to eat a more balanced diet!  🙂

Since joining Elements and starting Weight Watchers in June, I’ve lost over 16 pounds.  But I’m prouder of the fact that I can actually jump rope for 30 seconds; I couldn’t do THAT 2 months ago!  I was winded during my first Walking Boot Camp Club session, but now I can keep up with the best of them.  In a few months, my posture has improved (thanks, Pilates instructors!), my muscles are getting stronger (my abs are somewhere between a 6-pack and a 2 liter), I’ve lost half of my double chin (good riddance), and my shadow is actually shrinking. 

From sedentary to simply spectacular… I’m on my way!  It’s all about making progress, being consistent, and staying committed – one step at a time, one day at a time, and one healthy decision at a time. 

“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?”

(I Corinthians 6:19)

© Copyright 2010 by Kayren J. Cathcart

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