By Erica Hudson/Contributor
In a world with numerous priorities, how do we ensure that we set aside the time to focus on our health and happiness? Physical activity plays a large role. It is no surprise that the majority of us need to make room for more fitness in our lives.
It often takes building activity into our regular routines and finding people to hold us accountable.
That is what helped convert Sheryl Turner into a gym goer and what ultimately made her 91裸聊视频渇eel better91裸聊视频� about all aspects of her life.
91裸聊视频淢y husband coaches soccer in the bubble beside H2O twice a week in the fall and winter,91裸聊视频� explains Turner. 91裸聊视频淚 would often go with him and sit and read, but I decided not to spend another year sitting, and instead to spend that time being active. That is when I signed up for a YMCA membership at H2O Adventure + Fitness Centre.91裸聊视频�
Turner started in the pool but soon felt comfortable enough to try the fitness floor where she was set up in YMCA Health Coaching 91裸聊视频� a free six month program included in YMCA membership.
91裸聊视频淚91裸聊视频檝e never been to a gym in my life, so at first I didn91裸聊视频檛 know what to do,91裸聊视频� she explains. 91裸聊视频淏y joining the health coaching program as soon as I started on the fitness floor, I felt more comfortable right away. YMCA staff showed me around and taught me how to use the machines. They also developed a fitness plan that was specifically designed for me; based on my goals and abilities.91裸聊视频�
Because of an ailment she has had since birth, Turner has always had problems with her shoulders, so her YMCA health coach designed a personalized plan with this in mind.
91裸聊视频淚 have built up my muscles so I don91裸聊视频檛 have any shoulder pain anymore,91裸聊视频� Turner explains. 91裸聊视频淚 just feel healthier and I am able to go bike riding and throw Frisbees; I can do anything.91裸聊视频�
Since joining the gym, Turner has participated in yoga and core classes which she loved. She had never tried either of them before and is happy she did. She has also enjoyed the circuit and she tries out different machines that she doesn91裸聊视频檛 have access to elsewhere.
Though she loves the facility and the wide selection of activities to take part in, the YMCA91裸聊视频檚 community feel and the people are what have kept her coming back.
91裸聊视频淚t really is a community,91裸聊视频� Turner says. 91裸聊视频淓ven though I am finished the health coaching program, the support is still there any time I need it. Every time I come to the H2O I walk through the door and there is a friendly face to whom I can ask questions. Everyone is really helpful. I can even email and get a response from the fitness coaches. It91裸聊视频檚 just amazing.91裸聊视频�
Turner has set a personal goal to do something active every day. Whether it is walking on her treadmill at home, going for a walk or a hike outside, biking or doing a workout at H2O, she is determined to stay active, healthy and happy from here on out. She wants to 91裸聊视频渁ge well91裸聊视频� and intends to keep building her strength in mind, body and spirit with the help of her new YMCA community.
91裸聊视频淚 never would have thought I was capable of doing all of this,91裸聊视频� says Turner. 91裸聊视频淔rom where I started until now, I can91裸聊视频檛 believe the difference it has made in this short period of time. I started the health coaching program back in December and have come so far in my strength, endurance and mindset. I feel proud of myself in many ways.91裸聊视频�
Tuner stepped out of her comfort zone and is happy she did. Although speaking about her experience is not something she would have regularly done, she is determined to help others realize the same lifestyle change that she has.
91裸聊视频淏eing more active has really affected my mindset,91裸聊视频� Turner says. 91裸聊视频淚 am more confident, less stressed and I feel better in general about everything. It has been a really positive experience for me and I can only encourage other people to give it a try.91裸聊视频�
The YMCA of Okanagan has a wide range of programs and services available to help you reach your health and fitness goals this fall. Everyone over the age of 10 years old can access free health coaching at the Kelowna Family Y or H2O Adventure + Fitness Centre and there are over 80 fitness classes included in membership to choose from.
The YMCA is also running two free health assessments for individuals age 50 and up or for those who have ailments and feel they need that extra support. One will be held at the Kelowna Family YMCA on October 14 and the other at H2O Adventure + Fitness Centre on November 18.
To learn more about these and other resources available for your health visit or call 250-491-9622 to talk to a member services staff member.
Erica Hudson is the communications coordinator for the Okanagan YMCA.
