Hey,
Sometimes lifting weight or running may not be your thing. Doing something that’s enjoyable is an important part keeping you active and healthy. Today I want to introduce you to Gina and let her tell you her fitness story.
So Gina how long have you been consistently active?
I’ve been active for the past 4-5 years. My number 1 love is Zumba. I also attend Boot Camp with my husband and son and walk and jog as well. But I really love all kinds of dancing like Salsa, Jazzercize, Dance Fitness, etc. I love anything that lets me dance and break a sweat.
I think doing what you love to do is important and will make you more consistent and help you stick with it for the long run. Can you tell me what’s influenced you to stay active the past 4-5 years?
Finding something that I really enjoy doing, and then realizing that I feel good after working up a sweat. But honestly, I am not 100% dedicated. I struggle every day with excuses to not workout. Even though I feel better, I still have a daily internal struggle to get moving. I am very thankful and blessed to have a husband, son and friends that help keep me motivated and on track.
You mentioned that you struggle every day. Can you tell me about some of the barriers you face and overcome to keep you on track?
Some of my biggest barriers to staying active include: my work schedule, lack of sleep, not enough hours in the day, and that inner child that is lazy and rebellious. My two biggest supporters (Fred and Trevor) really work hard to keep me on track. I am praying that one day I will catch the bug and help motivate someone else to exercise.
I think consistent exercise is more important to your total health than just about weight loss. Can you tell me about how consistent exercise has helped both your physical health and mental health?
Since becoming more active, I am able to move and not get tired or out of breath. The biggest difference is mental – I have suffered from anxiety and depression- and exercise really helps to lift your spirits. I am still a bit anxious at times, but my mental health has definitely improved.
Let’s talk about diet for a minute. When it comes to health diet is probably equal to or more important than exercise. How would you classify your current diet?
My eating habits are in that gray area between good and bad. Our household is trying to eat a healthy diet 80% of the time… but we do have a few off days.
Do you have a specific diet strategy and what is your go to healthy meal?
I rarely drink soda. I rarely eat bread. I try to stick with veggies and meat… but sometimes those pesky carbs find their way onto my plate. My go to meal is a salad with Romaine, spinach, feta, cranberries, green apple and grilled chicken… with a raspberry vinaigrette.
So, do you have advice for someone contemplating starting a fitness journey or for someone struggling to stay on course?
I would say, just START! That’s the hardest part. Then I would say, find a friend to help you stay on track. Support is essential!
Thanks Gina for sharing your fitness story. I think anyone who reads this will see the common thread. Having a support network of spouse, kids or friends is essential to maintaining it for the long haul. Over the past 20+ years I’ve been doing this, most of my biggest successes who maintain a fit lifestyle long term all have a spouse or good friend who comes along side on a daily basis. In addition, finding something you like to do is also important. My hope is that each of these stories help inspire someone to get started on their fitness journey or help someone get back on track. I hope Gina’s fitness story touched one of you.
Inspiring Others to Accept the Challenge,
Jeff |
