Perseverance in the Pool
Over the past year, Mary (pictured left) conquered her fear of the pool. Now, she regularly takes an aqua fitness class and comes to the Y five days a week. Mary told us she’s lost weight and gained confidence. Naturally, we wanted to hear more about her perseverance.
Mary: When I first came in, I was afraid of the water. I had to learn how to maneuver myself, and they kept telling me, ‘Take your time; take your time.’ And I did. Now, I can do everything the rest of them are doing.
What keeps you going?
Mary: You get tired, but I don’t give up. You cannot give up. The doctor said, ‘I don’t know what you’re doing. But you keep doing what you’re doing.’ I said, ‘I come to the Y every day.’ And he said, ‘I’m so proud of you.’ So, I feel good about myself.
We are proud of you too! Did you go to an aqua class today?
Mary: Yes. I’ve been in the pool this morning, and from the pool I took my shower and came in here. I’ll do about four machines before I leave. I just love it. It makes you feel younger. You don’t have these aches and pains like arthritis.
What exercise equipment do you use?
Mary: I get on the bicycle there. I get on the treadmill sometimes because of my heart. I need to work it, but I don’t like walking outside.
We heard your sister comes with you.
Mary: She comes religiously like I do [laughs]. That’s her.
Oh hey, Sally! What’s it like to have her as a workout buddy?
Mary: You feel good when you have somebody that you know there. You have confidence. It makes you wanna come. If she’s gonna come, then I better get out there too.
Right on! So, it helps to keep each other motivated?
Mary: She’s probably more motivated than I am, but if I know she’s going, I’m coming.
Sally seems to have some older sibling traits. Is she the oldest?
Mary: No, she’s just bossy! [Both laugh]
Haha, well whatever you ladies have going on is definitely working! Thanks for reminding us that the health journey is better when shared.