Rosie

“DON’T LET DOUBT STOP YOU”

Tainted Love – Previously I tried one-on-one training at Gold’s Gym.  I didn’t enjoy the experience though I trudged through for a month or two. Why did I trudge?  After the workouts, I would hurt, to the point it was difficult to move for up to five days post-training.  To say I was wary about personal training is an understatement.

Hello, Universe – Funny how things turn out in life.  As if it were God’s ironic joke, I won a free group session with Reformed Fitness in July 2016 at the Mascoutah Meltdown 5K.  Just to humor the irony, I decided to give it a go.  After all, what did I have to lose?

Surprised – The environment was so much different! It’s relaxed, and everyone is in it together. And without realizing it, I started to make progress in just a few sessions. Huh, lesson learned, working out can be fun.

Stronger – And while having fun working out a strange thing happened, My life changed and I became much stronger physically.  And the activities that I already enjoyed, like indoor rock climbing and mountain biking, I was better able to do!  My 5k run times keep improving. I also started to adventure and have participated in a bunch of new activities that I would not have been comfortable trying before.  I finished my first mud run then threw caution to the wind, and did a half Tough Mudder in October.  I also did an overnight kayak camping trip at Land Between the Lakes, doing 8 miles in one day.

My proudest accomplishment, by far, is completing the Hike26. That was a tough, marathon length (26.2 miles) hike through the woods of Missouri with the Any Adventure Any Time group.  We trained through the winter with increasingly longer hikes. It helped prepare me and I think the mental strength I gained was as much, if not more, than the physical strength.

Evolving – My feelings towards activity, exercise, and eating have evolved as well. Now I enjoy exercising and being active even more. My husband Dan and I participate in more activities together both as a couple and with the Reformed Living Any Adventure Any Time group. Also, the longer I am with Reformed Living, I am becoming more aware of my nutrition and portions.  The biggest challenge is knowing what it means to eat right, and just doing it.  As we all do, I go through cycles of being on point and then there are times that I’m not, even though I know better. It can be a struggle, but I have many more great days than not.

Support – Lucky for me, there is Dan (I call him Danny, heart heart, honey).  Together we motivate and support each other.  When I don’t feel like going to workout, Dan gives me a pep talk. He knows I will feel better once I’m done, and I always do. The compliments I’ve gotten are pretty motivating, and being able to wear smaller clothes is always a plus.

Next – I have learned big goals are motivating to keep me going.  My next big goal is to complete a duathalon next year. That is where we run 2 miles, bike 12 miles, and then run 2 more miles.  I’m scared and excited all at the same time.

Shout Out – Reformed Living has really helped in my journey. It isn’t just the support they offer. When you decide to take on a project, they find a way to work extra with you to make sure you reach your goal. Dave and Doreen have become more than just our trainers, they are our friends. You know they are always there to help you succeed and if need be to catch you when you fall.  Sometimes literally (BTW thanks again for that save on Hike26).

A LITTLE ABOUT ME…

What do you do for fun and relaxation?

If I’m on my own, I like to paint and read. Together, Dan and I like to check out local craft breweries and wineries.

What type of music do you listen to?

I enjoy alternative (The Point), and I also enjoy pop and country. Dan and I also have fun local festivals, fairs, and events.

If you could spend time with a famous person, past or present, whom would it be and why?

Frida Kahlo or Georgia O’Keefe. They were both really strong-willed female artists who intertwined art with their interesting lives.

What do you think is your most interesting characteristic?

My artistic creativity.  Many people say they really like my art and I enjoy the creativity required to not just make art, but make art that other can be immersed in.

What are your words to live by?

Don’t let doubt stop you.

What habit are you most proud of?

Finding time to workout consistently each week. Second, and highly related second, is hitting my goal steps each day.

What is your favorite healthy meal?

Spaghetti squash.  If you want a great recipe, let me know, I have a bunch!

How much sleep do you get per night?

I love to sleep. I usually stock up every night with a full 8 hours.

What do you like best about Reformed Living?

Dave and Doreen. They really make it special and welcoming. Each time you go to a session you know that you will be having fun as you improve yourself.