Before I started NFOF I was tired all the time. I would come home from work mentally and physically exhausted, I was tired of not being able to keep up with my husband and sons, and I was tired of not doing things I wanted to do because I felt like my weight got in the way.

After 3 months of NFOF classes I found I had a lot more energy. At that point I hadn't lost many inches or any weight, but I felt so good that I started using some hand weights I had at home and walking on the days we didn't have class. When the opportunity for personal training was offered, it was at just the right time for me. My kids were old enough to take care of themselves, and my husband had always made time for exercise in his schedule, so I decided it was time for me to do the same. Their support made it possible for me to add the extra time for workouts. From there it was the results I got that kept me going. At first I noticed little things like getting in and out of a car easier, or walking upstairs without getting out of breath. Now, when we bike together my husband and I race each other up the hills. The challenges from the trainer to push myself, and the motivation when things aren't going well are also a tremendous help.

I do now see myself as more fit, and I like the feeling of being in control of my body. It still surprises me though when I see myself in a mirror. Adjusting to a new body image has been surprisingly difficult, and something I am still working on.

My goal is to have the energy and good health to enjoy retirement and grandchildren when the time comes.

The biggest thing I have found for keeping myself on track is to make time for exercise. I schedule my time each week and if I can't make a workout, I will do it on another day, if I can't make a class I will do something else to make up for it, even if it means dancing to the radio in the kitchen. This is something my body needs and it feels so good.

Mary G.
Aurora, YWCA

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