Fun For Friday - Fitness Evolution

I've been lucky enough to have been fairly active the majority of my life. And over the years, my activities have definitely changed. Sometimes it's out of necessity, sometimes out of inspiration. I thought it would be fun to share my fitness journey and inspirations.

Gymnastics - I started this when I was maybe 4th grade, mostly because my sister was a rough-and-tumble kid and we kind of did everything together. I hated it though. I am NOT a daredevil.

Ballet - Near the end of 5th grade my dear friend (who is no longer with us) did nothing but talk about ballet. She convinced me to try a class. I was literally in love the moment I placed my hand on the barre. That was it. It was my everything. It was were I went to escape, to just be me, to feel beautiful.

Weight Lifting - I credit my sister and Cathe Friedrich for my love of lifting. Sarah had started doing tapes (yep good old VHS tapes) like The Firm. I could wield those 3 pounders like nobody's business. Then it was Jari Love, then Cathe.

Cathe's DVDs have taught me so much about lifting, form, techniques, rotations, and more. Occasionally, I still turn to her workouts for a change and for inspiration. Honestly, it was Cathe that inspired me to want to become a fitness trainer.

Running - This credit goes to my husband. I never ever thought I could be a runner. As it became harder for me to find advanced ballet classes that weren't with teenagers, I turned to the gym - better yet, the treadmill. I slowly worked my way up to running 3 miles straight.

Jason finally convinced me to try running outside. I hated it at first. Crazy right? But I slow got out of my head and fell head over heels (or hills) for it. Running became my ballet. My zen, my meditation, my peace. I also have to credit my friend Amy for pushing me, for helping me realize more of my running potential. I feel like an honest to goodness athlete.

Cycling - Again, this goes to Jason. It all started when he convinced me to try a spin class at our gym. I never would have tried it without him urging me. But I did and I loved it. I actually wanted to teach spin.

After several years of nagging, he finally convinced me to rent a bike and give it a spin (literally, sorry, I couldn't resist). After finding a great deal on a bike on Craigslist, well, the rest is history. I don't love it the same as running. But I love the low-impact workout, love being outside, and enjoy the time with Jason.

What has your fitness evolution been? Who has inspired you?

Love in Photos

In honor of Valentine's Day - Love in Photos Husband Family and Furbabies Friends Even if you're not a fan of Valentine's Day - I hope you have a wonderful day and remember the loves in your life.

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Where's the Beach?

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