From the time I was a little girl, I was always involved in different types of athletics.
My parents signed me up for gymnastics and figure skating when I was four-years-old.
By the time I was seven, I had joined cheerleading and a soccer team. All throughout middle school and high school, I continued to play sports. I was constantly involved in practices, conditioning camps, games and tournaments. I was fortunate enough to make a college soccer team and played for all four years. I never needed to worry about what I ate or keeping in shape. All of that changed once I graduated and joined the workforce. My job is in online marketing and I spend a minimum of 40 hours per week sitting at a desk. When I first got hired, I was determined to exceed expectations and advance my career. I was always the first one to arrive at the office in the morning and the last one to leave. By the time I’d make it home, I was always exhausted. I didn’t feel like working out, and I often grabbed fast food for dinner. Within a year, I’d gained weight and developed issues with carpal tunnel, tennis elbow, back pain, aching joints and headaches. My health concerns and appearance caused depression. I was on the verge of quitting my job when a friend of mine encouraged me to join a gym. Initially, it was difficult to find the time to visit the gym. However, I made my workouts a priority. I started getting up earlier in the morning in order to exercise before work. I suddenly felt so much better. I had way more energy and was more productive at my job. I’ve lost weight, earned a promotion and continue to spend at least five mornings a week at the gym.