I've been a member since October 2009. My friend Lenore told me about Lifestyle Fitness and brought me in. The fact that it's not huge, overwhelming, or crowded was--and still is--a big plus for me. Having diagrams and instructions on the machines, along with the printed programs to follow (including the one Shannon made just for me even before I joined) helped me feel capable of handling a workout independently.

All the trainers have been so friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful, and the other members seem to be people I can relate to. I appreciate the efforts (like this member profile) to help the members become acquainted and encourage one another. And the price was right. 

Goals: My goal is to look and feel like I did 25 years ago! In case that doesn't work out, I will be happy with building strength and endurance, retaining flexibility and a healthy heart, and keeping my clothes size in check. I also have a couple of chronic physical conditions for which my workout is part of the management.

Approach: My approach isn't as disciplined as it should be. I am in the gym 2-4 times/week, working about an hour each time. I usually spend a total of 25-30 minutes on the bike and Arc, 15-20 minutes at the weight machines, and 15-20 minutes stretching. I go to bed late and generally like 7 hours of sleep, so I haven't made my workout a first-thing-in-the-morning commitment. But I try hard to make it a priority several days each week. My husband and I are fortunate to travel often, and when we're gone, we usually do lots of walking and climbing stairs and sometimes hillsides. Being able to continue that kind of activity is a big incentive for me. I have found that if I am even somewhat serious about exercising, it's easier to make other healthful choices, like drinking more water and eating less of what I usually want but shouldn't have. (Read: "sugar and butter".) We look forward to having grandchildren one day and want to be able to play and travel with them.

Results: I don't think I work hard enough to be making big differences in the way I look, but I have noticed a little more room in my clothes and more flexibility in my knees and hips (which are home to some arthritis)--especially since Scott has been cracking the whip. And although I lead a pretty busy life, I feel much more like a bum when I'm not intentional about exercising.

Fun facts: I suppose some of my favorite activities are those that usually involve friends or my family. These include traveling in the U.S. and internationally, entertaining (and being entertained!), baseball games, eating together, and just sharing one another's lives and stories. I also enjoy landscaping and gardening, volunteer work, piano, music (Pandora has elevated my workout!), and various small groups (outreach, study, and social justice) within our church.