A New Sense of Self
If you ever spot Angela, soak in some of her wisdom. We got to chat for a few minutes and left inspired by her perspective on building more than muscles.
Angela: I started coming when my daughter graduated from high school and went to college. I had this extra time, and I did not realize what I was missing. It just gave me this new sense of self, sense of pride, sense of strength—to where the physical part was secondary. It was more about how I felt about me. So it’s contagious. It makes you want to come back.
She’s been coming back for seven years now. Not only that, Angela's become diligent about keeping her workout routines fresh.
Angela: I do a lot of research for different exercises. So I do one arm workout a week, one leg workout a week, and then cardio a couple times a week.
Your commitment is impressive!
Angela: I need variety. So, I just mark it on my calendar every 90 days and keep up with what to incorporate next. I’m kind of a planner.
Clearly! Do you exercise with others?
Angela: No, it’s ‘me’ time, and I make it as much of a priority as going to the doctor.
That's so encouraging to hear. Will you describe your fitness journey—or what would you call it?
Angela: It’s not just a fitness journey. I advise a lot of girls that I mentor that it’s a mental journey too and can be spiritual journey and a physical journey. When I started running, for instance, I couldn’t run a half mile, and I hated it. Then as I added to it, it’s just—you’re proud and want to do more!
You should be proud! What advice do you have for strugglers?
Angela: For me, it was putting it on my calendar and making it intentional. Even now, so many times I don’t want to go, but I’m always, always glad that I did.
We’re glad too. Tell us more about the spiritual aspect.
Angela: Oh gosh, it’s a great time to draw from within yourself, where your heart is, where your head is. This is sometimes my prayer time, which is why I don’t like to work out with anybody else—especially doing cardio.
Sure, it’s your time away from life’s busyness.
Angela: Otherwise you’re going 100 miles per hour, as many of us are. I laugh and say our four basic food groups are now fast, frozen, takeout, and delivered. We don’t ever slow down enough to think, “Where did I make a difference today?” And when you exercise, it’s a great time for reflection. So, that’s why I say it far surpasses building muscles.