April's GOal Getter
Beyond the physical gains...
In March of 2007 I joined the Momentum Fitness Center. At first, I was hesitant to participate in anything except my own personal workouts but soon learned that it is more than just a fitness center which is what all of the staff members kept telling me. The staff truly does care about each of its members and the members care about each other.
Three and a half years ago I sustained five occult fractures in my left leg. I was completely non-weight-bearing on that leg for three months and had to use crutches and a wheelchair. Because using crutches was so difficult, especially going up and down stairs, I fell on the stairs and sustained a sixth fracture a month after my initial injury. It took three months of intense physical therapy before I could even begin to walk again. I had to undergo therapy that utilized walking on a treadmill under water to keep the weight off my leg until I could learn how to walk again. I had pain and a limp for at least a full year. It was two years following my injury before I could walk normal again and without pain or a limp.
After sustaining all of these fractures, I was diagnosed with osteoporosis. It was imperative that I begin some type of weightbearing exercises to help strengthen my bones. I am no longer allowed to run, however, my doctor strongly advised using an elliptical and doing strength training. Momentum was my answer to what I needed to keep myself moving and to help strengthen my bones and muscles. Working out is more than just losing weight – it is moving and, for me, exercise has meant the ability to walk normal again.
I participated in the Go Program to get me started. As time passed, I did get to know others who were coming here also and was encouraged to try some of the classes. I joined the Body Vive class and found that I could participate at my level without further injury to myself but at the same time strengthen all areas as well as have a great time in doing it.
Not only is Body Vive wonderful for my age and my fitness level, but so are the members who participate in it. In January my husband was deployed to Iraq. I was having extreme difficulty even coming to Momentum at all because I just couldn’t handle it emotionally to be around so many people. However, the other Body Vive members got a “With Warmest Thoughts” card for me and signed it. They have all been wonderful to me with their support and encouragement during this time. I have returned to the class and my own workouts with a new outlook and am once again part of the Momentum members. The other class members caring made a huge difference in my returning because I knew they truly were concerned about me.
I feel better physically now than I have for a long time. I would never have thought at my age that I would be doing all that I do here at Momentum. I thoroughly enjoy coming here, have learned a huge amount of knowledge and am thankful for this center. They truly do move you in body, mind and spirit! I would encourage everyone to participate in what they can for their level and take advantage of all the different programs offered here, including the nutritional information.
I would like to say a very special thank you to all of the Body Vive class members, especially to Mary Ann, and to staff members Giesala, April and Tammy for your care, support and encouragement. I’m sure with everyone’s thoughts and prayers, my husband will stay safe until he returns home while I continue to stay active at Momentum.