What inspired you to begin your lifestyle transformation?
In 2002 I was diagnosed with dangerously high blood pressure – 220/140. Of course I was immediately put on a boat load of medications. I started walking and eventually joined the county YMCA. I also quit smoking. While all of these things lowered my blood pressure, it was not consistently in the range it should be. Over time I was also diagnosed with high cholesterol (239). A statin drug brought that down, but I couldn’t seem to get it to the magic 200 number.
How did Inspirational Life help you achieve your goal?
In October of 2015 a friend asked me if I would enter a contest with her. When the contest ended, she ended up leaving , but I stayed. Inspirational Life was a safe place for me to exercise where I was not judged by my body shape or level of fitness. Someone was watching and paying attention to what and how I was doing things. Exercises were modified when needed and I was encouraged and prodded to use heavier weights and bands when appropriate. Brian and Cathie gave me a consistency that my previous exercise activities lacked. And it was fun!
As a result, my blood pressure has consistently been below 120/80 for the past year. My cholesterol level is 168 as of this February, with an Ldl level less than 100 and an Hdl level greater than 60. Due to family history, the medications are not being eliminated, but the dosages are being reduced. If the numbers remain low, further reductions can be made with the goal of elimination.
How have the results affected your life?
While my original goal of losing a lot of weight has not been achieved (through my own fault, but I haven’t given up hope!), I am healthier and stronger than I have been in years. I am more mindful about things, like taking a daily vitamin and eating a protein at every meal. I look forward to going to the gym instead of making excuses for why I can’t go.
Describe Inspirational Life in one word.
There are many words I could use, but if I have to pick just one I’d say – Supportive.
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