Stories of Impact
YMCA OF GREATER WAUKESHA COUNTY
OUR GOAL IS TO HELP YOU REACH YOURS
Kristen Stoll, Financial Development Director | YMCA of Greater Waukesha County
Tuesday, November 21, 2017
Taking a Journey Towards Wellness
Jennifer struggled with obesity after having children, followed by a battle with breast cancer, which jump-started her journey of focusing on her health and wellness. With a lot of determination, she lost 60 pounds in seven months. Jennifer learned that the “hardest part about weight loss is not losing the weight, but keeping it off.” She knew if she wanted to continue to be healthy, she needed to make a permanent lifestyle change, so she started eating healthier foods and increasing her level of physical activity. Jennifer also finished a couple of 5K races to continue progressing her health and wellness goals.
Jennifer noticed the new Mukwonago YMCA when it opened in 2012, and often considered learning more about a membership, but felt uncomfortable about working out in front of others who may have more fitness experience. Finally, after the Y had been open for a couple of year, she arranged a tour of the facility. She was pleasantly surprised to see that there were people at all different levels in their own journey. As a mom of three teenagers, she liked that the Y offered something unique for each family member. “Not only would a membership benefit me, it would benefit our entire family, giving us something to do together.”
After being a member of the Y for some time, Jennifer was interested in taking her fitness to the next level by incorporating strength training, but wasn’t sure where to start. She noticed a class called Women and Weights, and decided to try it. Norma, the class instructor, explained which exercises worked which muscle groups and how to operate the weight equipment, which helped Jennifer gain the confidence she needed to try it on her own.
As Jennifer began to see the benefits from her hard work, and her daughter’s wedding around the corner, she decided to start working with Norma as her personal strainer. She quickly learned to push aside her doubts as she was able to accomplish more than she anticipated. Her new confidence encouraged her to try high intensity interval training, where she realized that class participants were just like her, and at various fitness levels in their journey toward health and wellness.
“Sometimes we fall behind and lose our focus, but it’s ok. What matters is that we get up, dust ourselves off, and get back on track.” With continued encouragement from Norma, Jennifer has tried new and fun workouts, including circuit training, split routines, and strength training. “Changing and sculpting your body doesn’t happen overnight, so it is important to be patient as the small changes happen.” Today, Jennifer feels stronger and more focused than before. She is committed to continuing her health and wellness journey at the Y, and looks forward to her continued progress.
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