Two Years Strong: We Can Do Hard Things

October marks two years since I started working out at The Y

Three days a week. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Rain or shine, hot or cold, I show up. Most mornings, I roll out of bed, lace up my shoes, and head out the door before I’m barely awake.

What I didn’t realize when I began was the complex relationship between consistency and fitness. Some days I push myself. Some days I just show up. And both count. What is the most important thing I have learned?

We can do hard things.

Not because it’s simply a challenge or fun every time, but because somewhere along the way, we stop asking if we can, and start pushing and realize that we already are. That we have been; every step, every drop of sweat, all prove the same truth:

Stacy Jo and Don at The Y

Strength isn’t loud. It’s steady.

This is not the way I generally work. I’m inspired, making lists, and craving creativity. But somehow the days became weeks, then months, and at the two-year mark, I feel empowered and confident. I’ve reaffirmed my worth and potential as someone turning 56 in a week. I feel immense pride in having shown up, worked hard, and embraced the journey. We can both do difficult things.

I want to thank all of the instructors—I think I’ve been in everyone’s class at some time in the last two years.

I really want to say why I’m thankful. I’m grateful for you being there, every time, on time, with a smile, different music, a fantastic variety of combinations for all types of Burn classes, H.I.T.T. classes, Bootcamp, Stretch, YFit, and Cardio Strength, to name a few. Thank you!

One class in the gym at The Y 2025

Stacy Joyfully

🐣🌻 Hatching ideas. Auburn B.F.A. grad Stacy Jo writes about art, nature, culture, and family life, all with a mindful, open-minded view.

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