Gyms. Health Clubs. Fitness Centers. Really whatever you would like to call them. Do we need to belong to truly achieve optimal health? Are these facilities making a positive shift in our nations health? I have been without a formal gym for almost 2 months now and a little surprised by the fact that I don't miss it all that much. I miss the people, but not the physical building. I have learned to adapt to a lifestyle in which fitness happens at home, in a yoga studio, and my favorite, the great outdoors. Now, I own a good amount of fitness equipment, which helps me maintain my fitness level no matter where I am. I believe a decision to invest a small amount into your own personal equipment is a solid investment in your personal health. Now don't get me wrong I love a good gym! It feels a little like home to me. I know that sounds weird, but I am comfortable in that environment. I enjoy discovering new ways to challenge my body in an atmosphere that encourages health & fitness and a little competition, too. However, I understand why people are intimidated by gyms. The unknown environment is scary! What should I do for my workout, what is this piece of equipment and how the heck do I use it, ripped-muscly people grunting heavily, beautiful people that are not even sweating, and the worst thing, MIRRORS are everywhere! Allowing you to see every angle of your body, even the parts you have never seen before. Their is a lot of stimulus and raw feelings that emerge upon starting at a new gym. If you don't have the support, it is no surprise that we stop using them after a few weeks. Being a fitness professional in this environment is not always easy either. I was constantly worried about how I looked checking my body in the mirror and scrutinizing every little detail part I always thought what are members going to think of me if I don't look like a trainer. What made me feel even worse, is when members would comment to me about my body. My favorite comment of all time, "Do you have some news to share with us? Are you pregnant?" Yep, that came out of someone's mouth. Wow, I could not believe it! And No I am not preggers! Sorry, I do not have a concave stomach. How I look on the outside does not give a good representation of the strength and physical ability that I possess. Enough of these negative words and thoughts people. Since, I have been without the mirrors, watchful eyes, and my own scrutiny, I have more self-confidence and respect for this amazing body than I have had in years. I am focusing on what I can do and how well I am performing, not how good I look. Fueling my body, not starving or following a new, trendy diet. Every now and again I look at this little belly and hate it, but then I think about how strong my core muscles are and all the amazing activities that I can perform because of my mid-section. I like to think of my body as a machine and in order for this machine to work right I must provide it with high quality fuel, let it get repair when needed, and respect its abilities. Thoughts to PonderStarting this new venture in life and business, I want to help you figure out what is going to work for you. How is fitness going to best fit into your world? What physical activities make you feel better about yourself? How are you going to maintain these activities? Do you need guidance?
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Moving is scary and thrilling at the same time. Tim, my hubby, and I wanted something different out of our crazy, busy city life in Saint Louis. Now don't get me wrong, I loved living in Saint Louis. The people were well, Midwesterners, warm, welcoming, and always willing to help you out. During the four years we lived there, I grew as a health/fitness professional, made tons of business connections, built strong friendships that will last forever, and ate some of the best food I have ever had in my entire life. It was a very hard decision seek other opportunities, let alone actually, move away from what became familiar and comforting, but we felt as though we wanted more than just successful careers. Also, why the heck not! Saint Louis Arch July 2011 - Our first Summer in Missouri Tim and I figured out that we wanted a better balance of our careers and outdoor recreational opportunities and so our job search began. We found what we were looking for in Northwestern Montana, at least we think we have found it. Once I started telling people I was going to be moving, the typical responses were: "Wow!" "Why Montana?" My personal favorite, "Have you seen Mountain Men?" I realized it sounded extreme to people who have lived in the city most of their lives, but I was happy with the decision we made and excited about new adventure. The Next Chapter of Life BeginsI have been in Libby, Montana since the beginning of June 2015. It has taken a little longer to get settled than I had planned on due to some unforeseen moving delays, but just this week Montana is starting to feel more like home. Prior to receiving our moving truck, Tim bought me the best birthday gift a girl could ask for, a stand up paddle board. I am pretty sure I spent the first month paddle boarding 3-4 times per week I still get pumped every time I go out on the water with my board. The lakes here are crystal clear, mountains are green, and the sky is well, BIG. The girls (our dogs, Katy & Madi) love to swim and hang out on the boards. I will post a picture of us on the board very soon. June 3, 2015 - My first night in Montana! It was 9pm and still this bright. Crazy! June 15, 2015 - Paddle boarding on Lake Koocanusa. We found this little cove with sandy beaches for the girls to swim and play fetch. Do you see the two black bodies in the water? I am already excited to write my next post and plan on posting at least one to two times a week. I look forward to sharing my life experiences and encouraging others to live a more healthy, stress-free life. Thoughts to PonderThink of where you want to go and what you desire out of your next chapter of life. Now, how are you going to get there? It may be a big challenge, but worth the effort.
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This is me, Liz. I am an, instructor, personal trainer, exercise physiologist, dog-mom, loving wife, little sister, coolest-aunt ever, and now blogger living in Libby, Montana.
Welcome to my blog! This blog follows my life and my interests in fitness, adventure, food, and healthy living. The Girls, Katy & Madi, and I. We have spent a lot of time together the past few years. I appreciate them for their quirks and how they love me unconditionally. They help me appreciate the small, simple things in life. Archives
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DiclaimerThis is a personal blog created and maintained by Liz Whalen. My blog posts document my life and sometimes highlight the food I eat and workouts I perform. I do not have professional medical training, nor am I a registered dietician. I am an ACE Certified Personal Trainer and ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist, while the content you see on my blog aims to bring you along on my health & wellness journey. The published information may not be right for you and should not be viewed as guidelines in any way. Seek counsel from a medical doctor when looking to incorporate or change your physical activity and/or dietary habits.
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