Accountability is KEY!!

WOWZA!!  It's been a long time since I've last posted anything!  Like all of you out there...this summer has been busy, busy, busy.  My months of May, June, and 1/2 of July were consumed with school - but, I FINALLY finished college!!!  My daughter was participating in softball, I was still teaching my Turbo Kick class twice a week, and trying to keep up with my two little boys.  So - now that I can finally breath again, I wanted to share what is next for me!

First of all, although I have lost a large amount of weight (90+ pounds) and maintained it for over a year now, the battle to live a healthy lifestyle is always there for me.  Although I don't struggle with making good choices as much as I once did, I still struggle every now and then.  During this journey, I've learned a lot about myself...but most of all, I've learned what has made me successful is ACCOUNTABILITY.  Having something or someone to hold me accountable has been the key to success!!  What I have also learned, is that it's not totally fair to put the "accountability" pressure on a single person.  Here are some examples of what I have done to stay accountable:

• Became certified to teach Turbo Kick, and teach it 2-3 times per week. (nothing like a class full of people wanting to work out to keep you accountable!)
• Talk about my health and fitness goals with my husband.
• Helped my hubby with an idea to form a Facebook group in which members post about their workouts, nutrition, motivation, etc.  It is an AWESOME support group for those looking to lead healthier lifestyles!

Now that I am in "maintenance" mode, I am always looking for more - meaning more ways to keep myself accountable and motivated.  In the last few months, I have really felt God leading me to use my experience to help others.  Specifically, I have felt led to offer a free class to my community.  So, I contacted my town's recreation board and pitched the idea of me teaching a free class to the community once a week.  They were excited and supportive of the idea!!

Starting next week, I will be teaching a free Turbo Kick class in my community!!  I AM SO EXCITED!!!  I really hope the members of my community are open and willing to try something new.  Not only will they be able to get a great workout, but more importantly, I want to build a support group for people.  Having this class once a week will create some accountability, not only for me, but for those who participate!  I am really looking forward to see the positive benefits of having this class!!  Here are the details:

• Place:  Westwood Park (Mackinaw, Illinois)
• Time:  Tuesday nights from 7:00 - 8:00
• Bring:  A towel and/or yoga mat and a bottle of water

For those of you who read this blog that live in the area - I hope to see you there!!!  I promise to support and help you as much as possible.  Two years ago, I would have never thought I could be doing something like this.  We are all busy...we all struggle with "finding the time" for ourselves.  As mothers, even when we make the time, we then struggle with the guilt we feel for taking time away from our families for ourselves.  Trust me, your kids WANT you to be healthy.  My daughter doesn't even recognize old pictures of me...and thankfully, my boys won't really remember the "old" me.  My example will help them grow up healthier and happier!!  No matter what commitments you have in your life, you can make the time to live healthier.  It is possible.  I am proof!!

Yours in health,
Traci