I used to practise several sports when I was young, but because of growing pains in my knees, staying physically active became more and more difficult, and so I became somewhat of a sedentary teenager.
The path to fitness does not always go through a gym
On April 17, 2016, I made the decision to completely change my life. Despite the pain I still felt in my knees, I started running for fun, but also to get back into shape. It was a slow start, I would run one kilometre, and then stop whenever it would get too painful. Little by little, I added to the distance. I was far from guessing where these first steps would lead me.
Being Open-minded and Welcoming Advice
When fall came, the idea of running outside during winter was not appealing to me, and so I registered to the Boucherville Énergie Cardio centre. In my mind it was clear I was only going to run on the treadmill. At the time of my registration, the personnel convinced me to make an appointment with a personal trainer to build a program that would allow me to improve my running technique and performance. There was also the concern that I might get bored with only running on a treadmill. I agreed and met Vincent Carey, who took the time to get to know me and build a program corresponding to the type of workout I liked. The suggested exercises allowed me to improve my performances. And so, I had another good reason to do more than just hop on the treadmill: not only was it more motivating, but I could actually see the results generated by the program.
Putting Aside the Weighing Scale
I lost 35 pounds since the first time I ran a little over a year ago. I am proud, but above the weight loss issue, the challenges are what makes the difference. As a matter of fact, I will participate this summer in a half-marathon and two triathlons! Next year, in 2018, I am planning on completing the Ironman 70.3. I never thought I could achieve such challenges, neither did I ever imagine I would love these three sports as much!
Doing it for Ourselves...
The most important in all this, is to do it for ourselves and realize that anything is possible when putting in the necessary efforts! I train five to six times a week. I meet with my personal trainer every two to three months to update my program to continue improving my running performances. As a matter of fact, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Gabrielle Croteau who agreed to take over Vincent’s role as my personal trainer.
... And Realize the Benefits of Exercising
I take so much out of this fitness journey: my knees no longer hurt and I lost weight. I am now passionate about a new sport that motivates me to continue, to push myself, and to step out of my comfort zone.
It is summertime once again, and I started jogging outside, but I still go to the gym two to three times a week to maintain my fitness level and to socialize! Going to the gym allowed me to meet other passionate people. People with whom I take pleasure interacting with at the gym and who do nothing but add to my training experience.
