I've never positively thought about my fitness. Growing up, we didn't eat right, we never worked out, and the idea of going to a gym was revolting when I was in college. My friends, who had focused on their physical well-being as kids, invited me almost every weekend to be their guest at our local fitness center, but I was comfortable in my skin and didn't want anyone to judge me for my upbringing or current lifestyle. I didn't eat unhealthy as an adult, although I enjoyed the occasional fast food visit during the week; I thought that if I went to a gym, they'd judge me for my body, and I wouldn't enjoy the experience. Then, in 2024, I got into a horrific car accident.

In the blink of an eye, I lost everything: my job, car, and ability to walk. I had broken my left leg in multiple places, and I was told that unless I got serious about physical fitness and focused on my body's health, I might never walk again. It was world-shattering. I started physical therapy and began to rehabilitate my leg again, but it wasn't enough. I couldn't walk up the hill to my college classes, and I felt like I was out of breath every time I stepped out of the shower (the accident did more than break my leg--it broke my spirit.)

My roommate recommended I try her personal trainer at her local gym, Athens Health & Fitness, and he said that he'd helped her stamina and gotten her back into a healthy physical routine. By this point, I couldn't even think of the potential judgment; I just wanted to walk normally again and was willing to try anything. I scheduled a consultation and met with the trainer, and we developed a plan to help my physical well-being and stamina get back on track. I met with my trainer two times a week, and, to be honest, it was hard work. They didn't go easy on me, and by the third week, there were days I didn't want to go to the gym anymore. I went anyway, and after putting in the hard work, my life changed completely for the better. After three months of training, I found that I wasn't out of breath as quickly, my physical therapy was easier, my walking was more normal, and I wasn't as anxious as I had been in my classes.

After my accident, I didn't think that my physical well-being would ever recover. Now, I can't go two days without hitting the gym and getting a solid workout. My parents and friends are noticing the change, and when she's in town, my mom likes to visit the gym with me and learn how to use some of the equipment she's never seen before! When you focus on your health, your life will change. I've seen the results and want to share them with everyone. If you haven't joined your local gym, or you're waiting for the right moment, now is the time to start!

This text has been edited for clarity.
October 4, 2024