Happy Valentines Day to the Y!

Original post February 14, 2024

My family and I have moved a lot due to my husband's job. Moving can be both challenging and exciting. When we moved, our top priority was finding a home in the best school district near Greg's office. We also looked for outdoor activities and a good gym or athletic club. We decided to get a family membership at The Y as it met all our needs. My husband and son enjoy swimming, but I missed weight training, movement, and music, and didn't know where or how to begin.

Angela to the Rescue!

Luckily, Angela, a Wellness Coach for the Coach Approach program, was my lifesaver. She intently listened to my fitness experience, and we set short-term and comprehensive goals together while holding me accountable. She demonstrated how to use the equipment, and after The Y purchased new weight equipment, she excitedly showed me again. Most importantly, she reminded me of what I love about fitness: FUN! Her enthusiasm and smile are contagious! Angela spreads a positive atmosphere; she is why I'm at the Y, taking advantage of everything it offers.

Carrie #dothework

Carrie is a fantastic instructor in the 5 +/classes I attend every week. She challenges everyone in cardio and strength. I realized I had been playing it safe, but now I enjoy putting in the work to improve. #dothework. Aside from the fitness challenges, one of the things that makes Carrie's classes unique is her dry sense of humor and the fantastic playlists she curates. They work together to keep us motivated and moving forward.

One day, she asked me how I was doing. I shared with her that I was surprised to find that the best part of the classes was feeling great and having a positive attitude—the smiles I have at The Y last throughout my day. Carrie's fitness classes and regular weight training sessions have provided structure and routine for me when my husband travels. Regular exercise has improved my mental health, increased my daily water intake, and helped me sleep better.

I have gotten to know The Y is so much better thanks to Angela's coaching, Abby's leadership, and Carrie's instruction. Nancy, Jessica, and Julee are also very skilled instructors. Robbie is a motivating presence in my Y classes, as are Tina, Jim, and Jennis. People who attend classes come from diverse backgrounds and have varying reasons for being there. I am incredibly grateful to have found such a positive community to exercise with.

Good nutritional vibes!

Before my early workouts, I plan a light breakfast consisting of a banana or apple and a drink like Remedy Organics Matcha Fuel or Bolthouse Protein Plus Oatmilk Vanilla Cinnamon, both at Walmart or online. Why these drinks? Since I'm a vegetarian and sometimes vegan, these are a quick (read "premade") way to get protein before or after my workout.

For those of us who did not take a nutrition class in college, it's complicated. Here is an interesting article from LiveStrong.com about women's protein goals. Also, read The Essential Guide to Women and Protein. Oh, I forgot caffeine. I don't drink coffee; my favorite caffeinated drink is Celsius Tropical Vibe.

Note. Maybe it's a generational thing