I’ve always tried to be active. I knew and recognized the importance of a healthy lifestyle and did my best to eat right and exercise regularly. Over the years it seems like I’ve done it all, trying a lot of different things to ensure I stay fit. I can remember working out to Jane Fonda videos after having my son 38 years ago. I’ve tried a few diets, I’ve played tennis and ran, but I’ve always felt like I needed something more. That’s when I found Woman’s Center for Wellness and became a member.

I first became a member when the facility was located on Airline Highway in Connell’s Village. The number of years escapes me, but I’ve continued to remain a fitness member because of how exceptional the facility is. As a fitness member, I have access to so many great professionals that are always so happy and willing to help, state-of-the-art workout and diagnostic equipment, wonderful nutritionists and nutritional services, and so much more! The number of fitness classes offered is incredible, there is always something different and new to try, along with a great group of women participating. Over the years, I’ve tried pilates, spin, yoga, pump, and Flow Motion.

It was a few ladies in a manic class I participated in that morphed into my core group of workout buddies. After taking part in the class and getting to know each other, we decided to continue to work out together through group training. Our group has been working out together twice a week for over five years! I love being able to share this experience with them. We help keep each other motivated and accountable, we know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and we know how to make each other laugh and keep the workouts fun. In fact, the day after a workout, we typically text and compare to see who’s the most sore! Which, to be honest, I love that that sore feeling, it reminds me I’m getting stronger and the workouts are working.

My group is currently working with Erin as our trainer. She is really exceptional! Erin helps us modify exercises when needed, she helps us develop a fitness plan, and she’s instrumental in helping us all not only reach our goals, but make and focus on new ones. We all love Erin and how she helps us, but really all of the trainers are great. Regardless if you’re doing one-on-one training or in a fitness class, the trainers are so friendly, so knowledgeable, and always work to make sure you’re getting the most out of your workout. I appreciate their feedback when they see me working out alone and stop by to offer tips and suggestions to make my workout that much better.

For me, working out and exercising in the morning works best. It helps me start my day off right, and also ensures I get my workout in before other things have a chance to derail me. I can notice a difference in myself on days I don’t or can’t workout and I don’t like that feeling and never want that to become my normal.  I tend to think of exercising as a major responsibility, much like you would a job. But, a fun job! I also feel obligated to myself and to my family to stay healthy; there is no other option. I want to be as healthy as I can so I can actively participate in my life for as long as possible. My mother is 92 years old and has suffered with arthritis for years. While she has no other major health problems, she is wheelchair bound because of her arthritis. Being predisposed to this condition, I know I need to be proactive, so regular weight training and consistent exercise can help ward off inflammation and the affects of arthritis. Aging isn’t my concern, it happens to everyone, but I like knowing that I can control how I age.

When I think about it, I think one of the things I like most is not only is the facility women only, but its women of all different ages and abilities with a common goal of focusing on healthy living. Every day of the week, I can walk upstairs to the fitness floor and see others motivated and moving, which helps motivate me. I enjoy seeing members that I took classes with 15 or so years ago and we catch up on family and life. I also like meeting new faces and getting to know others who are members.  It really is like spending time with a big group of friends.

If anyone is interested in improving your health, fitness, and quality of life, I cannot think of a better place than Woman’s Center for Wellness. Regardless of where you are in your fitness journey, Woman’s Center for Wellness can help, every level of fitness can be accommodated and every question can be answered. Take my advice, do one of the best things you can do for yourself, become a fitness member!