A few of my coworkers talked about their workout program and compared their aches after their sessions and how much they loved it. I listened, and had determined that someone of my size could not possibly do a workout so intense. Yet I still listened and grew more intrigued. My son's karate studio happens to be next door to said workout program. I’ve watched sweaty, smiling people go in and leave. Sweaty and smiling. I paced the sidewalk that fateful day; passing the open door of that studio several times. There was a class going on and music from Hamilton played (“My Shot” very coincidental). My final pass Naomi and Rasheed were waiting, their smiling faces immediately easing my anxiety. They pulled me in, I voiced my concerns about my limitations and Naomi showed me the wall of success. I could do this. March 16 2017 I walked into my first class at Orangetheory Fitness. Casey took the class with me, Cameron coached. I cried, and would not let myself stop. When I finished, I found my own self smiling; because I did complete the workout and because it felt fantastic! I cried more with Naomi as she signed me up. My life changed that night. As someone who doesn’t fully rely on scales, I felt and saw the changes. Non scale victories mean more than pounds lost, and scales can be deceitful. I vowed to withhold weighing myself as long as I could. I gained a family that day. Many of my classes are coached by Cynthia, whose support is nothing short of amazing. She knows my journey, my goals, and my slight limitations. She’s been one of my biggest cheerleaders and we’ve shed so many joyful tears and shared many mini celebrations. As I look to 2018 and all the things I’ve accomplished on my health journey: 2000m row I RAN! So many hills Mobility! Friends! I can plank! 4 mph power walk (I started at 1.5 mph, barely) 15 incline! AND 90 POUNDS LOST!! OTF has been an integral part of my life. I miss it when my body says “break time” and when work and life get in the way. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done for myself, and I look forward to this coming year! #blogpost #myweightlossjourney #ggettinghealthy
