According to
the American Heart Association, “80%
of Americans don’t make exercise a regular habit.” It’s never too late to start
a fitness program. Beverly Simon was in her 50s and had serious health issues
before she jumped on the fitness train.
According to
Beverly, “I never did any exercise before. I found myself with high blood
pressure, high cholesterol and I couldn’t even walk very well. I decided to
sign up for some kind of fitness class and after browsing the recreation
classes online I saw Zumba with Zukossa
Fitness and it sounded fun and different from other classes. It was also
very convenient to where I lived.”
For many
people, after a lifetime of not exercising regularly, the idea of joining a
class can be intimidating. This is why Montgomery County Recreation offers such
a wide variety of classes and programs. There really is something for everyone:
something that will help you get moving, and feel better about yourself.
Just Keep Moving
As Beverly
explains, the key is to just keep going back, and keep moving.
“I almost
quit after the first class. I couldn’t move like the other people and I was
frustrated. I got home and I could barely walk up the steps. I went to the
second class, instructor Janice said don’t worry about the routine, just move.
I believe I created my own steps! I know I wasn’t keeping up with the class but
I kept moving to the music and I was sweating.”
Beverly
admits that the whole first session was a struggle for her. However, she
started to see results. It was just the boost she needed to keep going. Soon
after the first session Beverly started to watch what she was eating and joined
a gym to visit on the days she didn’t have Zumba.
The Result?
Beverly has
seen incredible physical changes including lowering her cholesterol, lowering
her blood pressure, and dropping five clothing sizes! More importantly, Beverly
has experienced incredible emotional changes. She confides, “My self esteem has
improved. I feel more confident and emotionally, my whole outlook on life has
improved. I look forward to getting up everyday!”
Tips for finding the right exercise
program
First, check
with your doctor to see if he or she has any recommendations including
low-impact. Then, think about what you like to do. Do you like dancing? Do you
enjoy the water? Do you like to work out with a group or are you more
comfortable on your own? Lastly, browse the current guide online
to see what course sounds appealing to you based on your doctor’s
recommendations and your interests. It’s easy to register online. You can do it
and we are rooting for you.
