Finding My Inspiration
by Rachel Coleman • Feb 9th, 2010 • Category: Run
For me there was one thing… one thing I really wanted to accomplish just to prove to myself that I was still alive. Sure I was married, I had kids, and I had a company, but I wanted to work toward something for me. Just for me.
It was 2003 and the conversation with my husband went like this, “Hey, Aaron. If you buy me an iPod, I’ll run a marathon.” (Silence)
“Are you serious?” he asked.
“Yeah. Why not?” I answered.
Within a matter of days I came home and found a brand new iPod on our bed. He took the bait… and I had something to shoot for, plus I had a promise to fulfill.
I need motivation. I do. I need deadlines, and registration fees, and pressure. I need accountability. I ran a 10K once, but other than that, when I started training for that marathon I had never participated in any other sporting or racing event, by choice, in my entire life. I don’t even have one of those soccer trophies that seem to come with a good American childhood.
As a kid, I hated physical education. I thought it was torturous. Really? Can’t we just skip my turn at bat, or do I have to go through striking out and total humiliation in front of my peers?
In Physical Education at school they had this miserable idea of “treating” us to a different sport each month. (Oh, joy!) So, shortly after discovering I was especially terrible at softball, I was able to discover that I was equally as bad at volleyball. After volleyball, there was basketball, and I was miserable at that too.
Now, may I pause here and ask why anyone thinks it is a good idea to play dodge ball in junior high school? Really! Do we need to huck rubber balls at one another? In case you were wondering the person who always gets picked last for the team, is also the one that gets creamed first in dodge ball. It’s a reciprocation thing. Trust me.
I noticed one girl in my PE class who seemed to sit out every single day. I asked her how she got so lucky. She told me that she had a doctors note… she had ringworm. I wondered how I could get ringworm, too.
Never in my life was I called “sporty” or “athletic.” That was not me.
I got married when I was 21 years old. By the time I was 26, I had Leah and Lucy, and all of the surprises that came with them. (Leah was born profoundly deaf. Lucy was born with spina bifida and later diagnosed with cerebral palsy as well.)
And then… in 2004, with my iPod strapped to my arm, I ran the Inaugural Salt Lake City, Utah Marathon. My finish time was 5:27:22. Within the first 5 miles, my iPod gave up the ghost, but…
I COMPLETED A MARATHON!
I crossed the finish line and hurried home to shower and get dressed, because I had a presentation to give later that afternoon. I was booked to deliver a presentation to parents who have children with special needs. As I was running the race, I kept thinking, “You’d better hurry up if you want to shower, put on make-up and do your hair before speaking this afternoon!”
After that goal was crossed off my list, I didn’t think much more about racing. I did “the big one.” I knew I could do shorter distances if I felt like it…and I never felt like it. Life went on.
Not too long ago I came across Athleta. While devouring their web site, I read that they sponsored athletes. I thought, “That is AWESOME! That would be amazing!” I continued to read about their sponsorship and then I heard that voice again saying, “Rachel, that is not you. You have never won a race. You’ve taken a yoga class, but you are no yogini. You have a couple of finisher’s medals. You are not an athlete.” So, I did not apply.
I bought their clothes and wore their clothes and since I really do love the stuff, there are photos on my blog of me wearing Athleta. My friends started buying clothes from Athleta too, and we would chat and shop and tweet about it. We even started running races together in our matching Athleta outfits.
Then, one day I got an email from Athleta’s corporate office. The email said that they had seen my blog and were inspired by my story. They asked if I would apply to be one of their sponsored athletes!
I applied. But, when I spoke with them on the phone I was sure to reiterate how I had never won a race and how I was a mom, doing my best to be strong enough for Lucy… strong enough to be able to tell Lucy, “Yes” when so many other people, roads, and terrain would tell her “No.”
So…last month I signed an endorsement agreement with Athleta. I am one of their 2010 Sponsored Athletes! Most of the time, when I tell people about it I blush. I really do, because that “not sporty, not athletic” 15 year-old version of myself is just bracing to get smacked with a rubber ball again. I’m waiting for someone to call my “bluff”, even though I ran two half-marathons last year. Even though I’ve hiked through Yellowstone with Lucy on my back, even though I took Lucy to Disneyland and transferred her countless times from her wheelchair to the rides and back to her wheelchair over three days… even though I had been training four times a week with a trainer to become strong enough for my daily life, training for my daughter Lucy and her wheelchair… even though I am 30 lbs lighter than when I ran 26.2 miles in 2004… even with all of that, there is this little voice that says, “Rachel, you are not an athlete. You are just a mom.”
They said they felt my story was important to share because most women are like me; they are simply trying to find a way to balance their lives. You know what else I found out? Most women do not have a wall of medals either. They have children. They have jobs. They have circumstances that get in the way, too!
I feel really lucky, you know. Every day, my inspiration to be healthy and strong is looking right at me. She’s been living under the same roof for almost ten years. It just took me a while to recognize how strong I could be. It feels so good to be able to see it in myself and know that I did it. I became what Lucy needed me to be.
Every time I lift that slippery 9 year-old out of the tub and wrap her in a towel, I feel like I am winning. I’m winning because there’s no concern in her eyes. She’s not worried that I might drop her or hurt my back, and I’m not worried about those things either. She knows that I am strong enough. I know that I’m strong enough. In those moments I smile.
And now I know – it’s one thing to reach for a goal just for me and no one else, and it’s quite another thing to strive for something on behalf of someone you love.
And then…
It was 2009 and the conversation with my husband went like this:
“Hey Aaron, if you buy me a road bike, I’ll do a triathlon…”
RACHEL COLEMAN is a runner, hiker, skier and super-mom. While her most important job is being a mom, she also has a successful career as a singer-songwriter and is the co-creator and host of Signing Time, an Emmy nominated television and DVD series….{more}
Related Chi: Finding Inspiration
Run With Your Life: Part 2 – No Exceptions
Run With Your Life
Inspiration and Passion
Rachel;
Your story is so incredible! I love the mention of the blush — I am still covering my face and giggling in disbelief regarding my own sponsorship. Of course, of course you are an athlete! Show your 15 year old self my blog post on the topic.
I’m looking forward to sharing this amazing year with you!
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Rachel,
Thank you for sharing your story! It really resonated with me. I, too, never thought of myself of athletic or even active. I had been sedentary except for on-and-off half-hearted tries at exercise throughout my life. I was a chubby kid and always struggled to keep my weight off. In 2006 I decided to visualize myself differently. What did I always admire in others and never think I could be? To be physically fit, yes, but to really challenge myself to do even more. I visualized myself in great shape and active every day. Now I run every other day and am up to about five miles per run, and I do some other form of exercise every other day. I am like you – I’m almost embarrassed to talk about it with other people because it just never seemed like “me.” But I feel great and don’t ever want to go back. Thanks for your inspirational message!
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Rachel,
Your story touches my soul! I nodded my head in agreement as I read your story. I married in my 20′s, had two children, and landed a good desk/computer job where I could go all day with no exercise. I have always had to “work” at keeping the weight off and over the yrs it crept back on until I did not recognize myself in the mirror. Not just the physical view but the soul and spirit inside my body. What happened to my ZING? I realized that my peace of mind & vibrant soul was no longer there and I was going to do something about it. The final straw that set my plan in motion was a call from an old HS girlfriend who had just lost a ton of weight and wanted me to join her in a 1/2 Marathon. I have not run since college! My immediate thought was, “I am too old with aches and pains”. I slept on it overnight and realized that I was the only one limiting my future and this would be a great opportunity to show my boys by example that ANYONE can overcome their obstacles; take life by the horns! I am happy to say that at 46, I just registered for my first 1/2 Marothon in Seattle this June. I am up to 4 mile runs and know that I just need to be diligent in my master plan (or as you state “deadline” LOL). Thank you for motivating me that anything can be accomplished! Keep up the great work and let us know about any future Triatholons!
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Thank you so much for sharing your story Rachel! My kids watched your show when they were toddlers and now I see you here, it’s like I know you. I can identify with soooo many of your experiences and I thank God for using your life to inspire the rest of us women/moms/wives. I know perfection is not the goal, but rather living life the way we were meant to instead of letting it pass us by. Thank you!!!!
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Hi, Rachel – what a great and inspiring story! I never considered myself “good” at sports either; I was a short, nerdy “poindexter” who alway got picked last for teams. I laughed when I read about your experiences with all the “ball” sports because that was totally me… and although I’d tried a bit of gymnastics as a kid, I didn’t get very far because I didn’t have the competitive drive and daredevil attitude for things like the uneven bars or vault. I never thought much about exercise until my mid-thirties, when I was diagnosed with endometriosis and fibroids, and I decided it was time to take better care of myself. I found a wonderful women’s exercise studio and started taking cardiodance and strength training classes 3x a week.. and that’s made a huge difference with my physical and emotional health … including helping me recover from a couple of surgeries and related complications. It’s been 12 years since I started, and I never intend to stop (and of course, the cute and comfortable Athleta clothes are a fun motivating factor too!) Best of luck to you, and keep on going!
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“They said they felt my story was important to share because most women are like me; they are simply trying to find a way to balance their lives. You know what else I found out? Most women do not have a wall of medals either. They have children. They have jobs. They have circumstances that get in the way, too!”
True words written! Rarely am I impressed with “celebrities” because they generally have a host of folks keeping their lives on track. I’m always impressed with moms who seem to manage it all and keep themselves a top priority, Thank you for sharing your story, can’t wait for more.
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As I read your story, I giggled until I cried at the end. What an inspiration! My favorite part is when you say your head tells you that you are NOT an athlete and you recount the different sports you attempted in high school with failure. That is ME!! I was never an athlete, never took home a trophy, in NO way was a runner but now I am a triathlete and my favorite sport is running. As you did, I think I got to a point in my life where I said “why not”. I am so happy I did and I haven’t turned back. Keep up the training – for YOU and your wonderful family!
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Aimee: At least we’re blushing together! It’s fun getting to know you too.
Lisa: Congrats on getting in 5 mile runs. That really takes something. I love the idea of visualizing yourself as healthy. One of my sisters is working on getting fit and losing a good amount of weight, sometimes she comes up to me and says, “Can I just put my hands on you so I can feel what I will feel like?” That may sound odd, but I understand how it makes it real for her, she can FEEL it is possible.
Sandy: That is great! Good luck on your half-marathon.
Well, I just found out that my husband and I got in The Spudman Triathlon in Idaho. It takes place on July 31, the day after our 14th wedding anniversary.
Tamara: I’m with you, I’d take inspiration over perfection any day. Besides all of that surgery, photoshop and airbrushing is such a drag :)
Caterina: Congrats on finding something healthy that works for you and continuing for 12 years. WOW! I’m inspired by that. Yes, having comfortable, functional, beautiful clothes is a motivating factor that ads confidence.
Renee: Thank you. It’s funny because I don’t experience myself as a celebrity either. (Is this a running theme? Rachel Coleman what are you?) I am a mom on a mission. I care about children and I believe every child has the right to communicate and be understood. I also believe in being strong enough for my kids and stronger than our circumstances… and maybe that’s why trying to stuff myself into a single category like “athlete” or “celebrity” makes me squirm. Why limit ourselves when there are so many possibilities!
Tamara O.: UNsporty Girls Unite! (And become super sporty women) I am so glad that I am not alone. We are the late bloomers. So, I have to ask, can I call myself a Triathlete after I complete just one? Or is there a certain number you have to complete so that the REAL triathletes don’t mock you? (giggle giggle)
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Rachel, thank you so much for sharing your story. I get very frustrated becuase I have always said that being a busy Mom, wife, business-owner, friend, daughter, sister, volunteer keep me from running and doing yoga on a regular basis; things that make me feel so good. When I read your inspiring story I realize that I am the only thing in the way of me doing my workout. I am the only reason I am not in the shape I want to be; not as strong and not with the indurance I want. I don’t think it was easy for you either, but you did it. I grew up watching my Mother give and give and give. I have two girls and I want them to see a Mother figure who also gives to herself. I am so grateful to you, Nancy
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Rachel, I wondered onto this accidently (or so it seems). I am almost 110 lbs overweight, mother of two healthy little girls, stay at home house wife. In the last 10 years I have done nothing but stay at home. I feel like a failure in that all my friends graduated college, have good jobs and nice brick homes. I have been letting myself get heavier ad heavier and all the while becoming more and more de;ressed. Recently, I have hade this little voice inside me telling me to become a runner. I DREAM of running almost nightly. I want to become a ;ersonal trainer so that I can ins;ire all the women in world who are like me letting life go by to do more and to be more. I have all these dreams but getting myself off the couch and out of the doughnut store is so overwhelming. I cannot seem to do it. Why? What is sto;;ing me? I know that I am the only one limiting myself to what I can do. I KNOW I can change my life and become an exam;le for my children and other mom’s like me. So what’s holding me back? Any thoughts, (from anyone) would be greatly a;;reciated. Thanks.
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Nancy: The realization that WE are the only thing standing in the way is not a fun realization. We all have circumstances, but too many of us allow our circumstances to control us an stop us and keep us from really living life out loud. The goal of “looking hot” never inspired me for more than about 30 minutes. The goal of “Being healthy and strong” actually impacts my daily choices and now that is the example my daughters see.
Jodi Seals: Thank you for being brave enough to share your story. I struggled with depression since I was 12 and the only thing that has kept it in check is exercise. I wish someone would have put me on a leash and run me around a track when I was 12 so I could have experienced how connected “feeling good” and “exercising” really are. Sounds to me you might need someone to check in with. One of my friends, who also happens to be an employee has lost over 60 lbs. she says I inspired her to do that. It sounds like you are ready Jodi. There is a group of moms who chat every Wednesday night from 7-9(Mountain) on my Signing Time web-site http://www.signingtime.com/chatroom Three years ago you would have just heard us complaining about our bodies. Now the conversation is about “which half-marathon” we are running together. Some of them started with a “Couch to 5K” plan. I used to go to the gym and all I could think the whole time was “I hate this! I hate this!” Then I turned it around and just started answering with, “I hate feeling this way and that’s why I’m here!” I invite you to visit me and my friends on http://www.RachelColeman.com we’ll be adding more fitness support there! See you soon.
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Jodi,
Glad you “accidentally” found the chi. A couple of thoughts for you…
The article Get a Running Start has some good tips for how to get off the couch and start taking steps (literally) to realize your dream. Here’s the link: http://www.athleta.net/chi/2009/04/28/get-a-running-start/
Also, hot off the press is Sankalpa: Set Your Intention from another one of our featured athletes. Maybe try setting small, simple intentions that more you forward toward the bigger goal. Personally, I like to set intentions that leave me open to possibilities, rather than honing in on a specific expectation. Self-expectations can make me feel like a failure if they’re not met. For example, rather than “today I’ll run for at least 20 minutes” my intention is “today I’ll spend 20 minutes doing something that benefits my physical, mental and/or spiritual health”. Here’s the link to Adri’s article: http://www.athleta.net/chi/2010/02/11/sankalpa-set-your-intention/
I hope this is helpful!
~Michelle
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You are truly amazing. I am also a mom-runner and the other day my little almost 4 yr old got a bad cut on his finger. On our way back from the hospital, we parked about 4 blocks away from home. He was exhausted after all the emotions he had gone through having to go to the ER and getting 6 stitches on his finger! He asked me “Mommy, I don’t want to walk. I am tired. Can you carry me home?”. He is over 40 lbs and I am a small 5’2″ 120lbs gal. My husband has a herniated disk in his back and so he was out of the picture.
I picked him up and carried him without even breaking a sweat. Then is when I realized… This is why I run for! to be strong, to be able to pickup my child as many times as he needs him. To run fast to him if he is ever in trouble, and to be healthy enough to be around for him as long as he needs me. This is when running stop being about loosing weight and being skinny, but about being strong, athletic and fit for my children.
When we finally made it home and I put him down to open the door, he opened his big brown eyes looking in peace and thankful, and said in his little voice “Thank you mommy, I love you”. And that made worth while all the long runs in the winter, and the times I ran even when I was exhausted after working a full day in the office and coming home to watch the kids, or the times I was recovering from an injury, or when it seemed much more appealing to stay indoors and watch a movie, instead of running in the rain. That day, I became proud to be a runner.
You are an amazing inspiration and I will be visiting your blog from now on!
thank you for sharing your story.
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Oh my gosh! You are amazing! And you are so right that most of us are just mom’s trying to get by! What an inspiration you are, your children are so blessed to have you for a mom. I’m going to find your blog..would love to keep up with your story. Congratulations on your sponsorship..much deserved!
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Wow, you’re such an inspiration for us! I was doubting about myself being able to finish a marathon this year, but your story gave me the strength and courage to register for one.
Thanks for sharing that. I wish you all the best.
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Truly amazing, not only Jody’s story, but all the comments. I agree- as a mom of two preschool girls, I love that staying fit has helped me be capable to carry them into the house when they are asleep or sick- or to be able to shovel out my car in a jiffy, or be able to haul all 5 bags of groceries into the house in one swoop. Fitness is a practical issue, that makes life easier, and also redefines the physical challenges of normal life.
I have been playing with the idea of doing a triathlon, and older mentors in my life seem dubious about ‘that.’ Too hard, too trying- but of course this is from non-athletes. When you start running and lifting, you realize that life is a sport, and we are all athletes if we choose to be. Visiting this site has reminded me why I keep being pulled to do a triathlon. I did a relay tri last summer, and multiple road races. But its time for the full triathlon. Thanks 2010 athletes- and Athleta! The inspiration is priceless, and truly changes lives, as our perspective of ourselves and our potential expands.
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Rachel!
I knew you looked familiar! My son Brennan and I sign along and sing along with you during move to the music on Nick Junior. Your story is very inspiring! As a full time working mom and wife, I have been so frustrated because unlike you…I was an athlete. I played Division 1 College Soccer and still coach. Yet, today I am 20lbs overweight and dread my trips to the gym simply because I’m not as fit, fast and strong as I used to be. But reading about your perseverance is inspiring. I also need goals and deadlines, so I just registered for a 10K in May!
Thanks for sharing your story!
Beth
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Hi there Jodi,
I believe you must take a firm stand for yourself. That means no longer accepting complacency in your life. And yes, do this for yourself first, and then, your kids second.
Realize that you, yourself matters. Tell yourself that you are lovable in every way. Say positive things to yourself that affirm the ‘good’ in you.
Why not consider taking a walk daily for exercise and/or find a friend or partner to assist you in getting physically active however small. Remember: Consistency matters when it comes to exercising.
Sometimes improving the way we think about ourselves gets us moving in a positive direction that builds up very quickly for the better. And yes, as a mother of two boys, myself, I agree that our kids look up to us to inspire them (as examples, i.e., role models) to be the best they can be no matter what.
All it takes is a step. A step that becomes another step which leads to another, etc. My suggestion is to get in touch with your quiet confidence from inside. Have you ever considered journaling your daily thoughts? Try it. Doing so gives you a much better understanding of who you are.
I’ve certainly gone beyond my comfort zone many a time. And I see (and feel) exactly what that brings me in doing so. You go Girl!! Dream and Dream Big! Make it happen and don’t wait…!!!!
Sincerely,
Catherine
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OMGosh! Thak you guys soooo much for the suggestions and advice. I am going to start journaling, I think that will be a good thing too. I’ve also started walking and trying to deit. I LOVE WALKING and I love how it feels! The other day a friend and I went 5 miles! Somthing I never thought I’d be able to do. But when I did, the next day I just wanted to do more and go further. I know I can do this, I know I can it’s just I get so beat down with my thoughts, “geez this is going to take FOREVER,” “I just want to eat my junk food and be ha;;y,” “who really cares if I am thin now?” I almost think myself out of success daily! So maybe by journaling and trying to stay more ;ostitive about it, I can do it. Becoming a runner would definately be just for me, because I enjoy it. I’m so excited! Thanks again Rachel and Cathrine and Michelle. It means so much to me!
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OMGosh! Thanks everyone for your thoughts and suggestions! Last summer into fall a friend and I were walking and one day we walked 5 miles! I was thrilled, I never thought I’d be able to do that. Then the next day I was so stoked to get out of the house and see how much further I could go! But then winter came and all the snow and all the excuses for not walking, blah, blah,blah. My friend got a job and can’t walk anymore so here I sit. I know I can do this, I KNOW I can. It’s just my thoughts get me down constantly, for each ;ositive thing I think it seems like there is 5 negative ones that follow. I am going to start journaling, I think that will hel; me deal with my attitude. Thank you so much Rachel, Cathrine and Michelle. I truly means so much to me.
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Ut oh…commented twice sorry! Thought the first one didn’t go through. My bad.
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Rachel- You are truly inspirational-Your story drives me to tears-Everytime I read it, I think this woman is an amazing mother and athlete!!!!! The drive you have, for your daughter, is the reason why we should all workout-It is not about looks; it is about what are bodies can do!!!! Everytime I feel myself lacking in confidence- I read your story and think, “I can do this!”
I am a high school teaher and I have your story on my desk and I share it with my coworkers, as well as, my students. Your are inspiring people everywhere!!!
Thank you for sharing your story,
Vicki
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Rachel, thank-you for sharing your story. You are inspiring partly because you do not have a wall full of metals. You are a normal mom, working hard to take care of your children and yourself. Athleta did a good in chosing you as one of their athletes.
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Hi Rachel!
Wow, I, too, am inspired by you and your story. Keep up the exceptional work you are doing from all angles, as a mom, wife, professional, and athlete. We are all in need of inspiration daily. Something that reaches us in the quiet moments we find most trying. I can relate to your dedication and hard work ethic especially when it comes to being a mom and a professional who always puts everything (i.e., effort, heart, sweat, love) into what I do.
I live with MS (though benign) and have never stopped living life to its fullest. My mind and body follow an athletic regimen like no other. A regimen that clearly has changed the course and outcome of the MS I have due to my lifelong passion for lifting weights and staying physically active as I do. Not to mention, attitude–a positive attitude is everything, through thick and thin!!!
Balancing work, family, home, and workouts is absolutely acheivable as long as your heart makes the decision to commit to all aspects in equal amounts, if you will. There are times where my given passion takes a wonderful hold of my day. For me, that’s okay, especially since my work is my play. As a trainer, I help people ignite their unrealized passion for something previously disliked (prior to meeting me). Doing this brings me endless joy in seeing newfound smiles on all of their faces!
To all avid readers, moms, wives, and athletes, alike: I say, “Continue to go out and live your life with ‘drive’ and ‘purpose’ experienced through the sweat, smiles, miles, and exhilirating feeling felt! as we all cross our own ‘finishlines’ in the strong effort of being physically fit and active.”
Be well and happy in your plight of becoming and/or staying fit. It’s an amazing journey that builds strength, character, integrity, focus, flexibility, muscle: both inner and outer, heart, and really so much more!!!! Thank-you so much Rachel for sharing your story with us!!!! :)
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michelle: Thank you for sharing those resources!
Iliana: I can relate. I remember when I would calculate how many steps were left before relief. Yesterday we went out as a family, up the canyon, to play in the snow. I carried Lucy over snow and ice and up a steep hill. The parking lot was quite a ways from our play area but, carrying Lucy wasn’t a burden. It wasn’t a total breeze trudging through snow up to my knees, but it was worth it and it was completely satisfying.
Trisha: Thank you! I look forward to getting to know you better and hearing about your triumphs.
gaelle: Registering is the first step. Putting your money and your word on the line, will get you looking for a training program. We are training for a half-marathon in April and have a great training program that has us running 3 days a week. Works great for busy people.
Serenity: Isn’t it crazy how many people will just say “no”??? They just say “no” to everything! Who says you can’t do a triathlon? Who says it’s too big or too hard? A Park Ranger in Yellowstone told us we would never be able to hike down “Uncle Tom’s Trail” and back up with a 9 year-old on our backs. The Ranger was wrong. We hiked in and hiked out:) “No” is the easy way out. “Yes” is the pathway to miracles!
Beth: I’m so glad you’ve caught us on Nick Jr.! Thanks for signing with us and congrats on registering for that 10K. So, you have the proof that you can do it, you’ve done it before. I can’t wait to hear how you do it again.
Catherine: You are right. Take that first step. Take the next. It takes commitment to get that wheel turning. I think one of the biggest mistakes in confusing being consistent with being perfect. We often throw the whole commitment out the window when we make a little mistake… have a little too much pizza, miss 1 or 2 training days.
Jodi: you talk about your thoughts beating you down and I think we can all relate. We seem to have some harsh default thoughts that are on permanent repeat. You know what yours are. But you might want to consider making up some empowering ones to answer your default thoughts with. For example. I noticed the thought “This is hard!’ was showing up ALL over my life. Caring for my kids, loading a wheel chair in the car, bathing Lucy…. in my mind the default thought was to think about how hard everything was. Would you be surprised that I felt depressed? Would you be surprised that I wanted to stay in bed ALL day? Who would want to get up and take on a hard life every single day? I wondered if my life occurred as hard, BECAUSE I was saying that to myself so much. So I made something else up (I made up “this is hard” so why not make up something better?) Every time I had that “hard” thought, I challenged it with, “My life is an amazing adventure!” Pretty soon, THAT was my default thought and in it I noticed how true it really was. Both of those thoughts could be true. You might read my story and say, well Rachel, your life is hard. And you might read my story and say, well Rachel, your life IS an amazing adventure. The cool thing is, I get to say, I get to choose… And I choose to say it’s an amazing adventure, because THAT gets me up in the morning. That makes me want to take on the world:)
Vicki: Thank you! Bodies are amazing, adaptive and strong. My body surprises me all of the time. I still laugh sometimes because I am shocked at my biceps LOL. It’s like I am discovering this new alien thing… me! My cute husband has to put up with me saying, “Honey, come here LOOK at this!!!” Which I guess is better than when I used to complain about my body. The thing is, I’ve had babies, I had a c-section, I have stretch marks… I am REAL. I wouldn’t trade the scars and marks for a perfect magazine bikini body. But, my secret is this, I have serious abs under my stretch marks. For some reason that juxtaposition makes me smile.
Kim: I appreciate that. I really do.
Catherine: Your story is amazing as well. What a perfect reminder that we only have the body we have, there is no back-up body in the closet. Sometimes when given a diagnosis, we tend to give up. I can just imagine your smile as you listen to your clients excuses. :) We all have circumstances. But, we get to say if those circumstances hold us back or propel us forward.
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Thank you Rachel for your roundtable responses expressed here for each one of us. How thoughtful, kind and sweet of you, really! About eighteen years ago, I took on the responsibility to inspire and lead others by example with the understanding that I would pass on what I knew and learned along the way. And I still do, quite happily! Sharing my insights and knowledge with people has allowed me to continually grow and learn as a person, mom, sister, trainer, life coach and athlete. My life is truly balanced and now has real meaning: purpose.
Having a love for any sport that makes you feel good about yourself: your mind, body and soul is a ‘real gift’ you give to yourself. I agree, making a commitment first to exercise is everything. I can’t imagine what my life would be like without the passion I have for staying fit and active through regular training. I do know what it has given me over the many, many years: a quality of life that makes me appreciate every moment in celebration of feeling healthy and strong each and every year–:)
Encouragement and support, wonderfully experienced here throughout this site in articles and blogs, I’ve found is key. I’m so grateful and elated to know that Athleta is avidly featuring women who personify something authentic and real, approachable and spirited, passionate and driven plus so much more.
Again, thank you Rachel and Athleta for featuring people here with heart. A heart that finds and reveals its true muscle rooted and fueled by positive energy, inspiration, perspiration and dedication. :)
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Yes! Get that Rachel. Thanks for reminding me that I get to CHOOSE and I choose NOT to listen to those ugly things I have been saying to myself. This week, starting on Monday, I have been eating more healthy, writing everything down and just taking it one day at a time, one hour at a time, even one minute at a time. When you cut down your choices/goals to hours instead of always looking at the overwhelming end result, it’s much easier to stay on track. Each minute, each hour is a ste; to reaching my goal, but each ste; is a goal in itself. Sometimes I just need someone to rattle my brain around to remind me of the obvious (or what should be the obvious). So thanks again Rachel for the rattle!!! :o)
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Oh Cathrine~ could you share alittle bit more about what you do and how you came to be who and what, where you are? You are also very ins;iring to me! Thanks!
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Hi there Jodi!
I’m more than happy to share something about me and thank you for your thoughful inquiry:
I discovered my love for exercise back in college when I took Ballet with students that were studying to become professional Ballerinas. I embraced Ballet as if I was looking to become a dancer myself because of how the discipline of it made me feel while doing it. I, in fact, was studying Graphic Arts at the time.
What I took away from doing Ballet was a fierce desire to be in touch with my body physically. Mainly because I saw what my body could do when I made a decision to stay with a ‘routine’ over the course of time. My discipline emerged in something purely physical. It became my turning point to loving exercise overall.
After leaving college, I decided to join a gym where I could continue my physical, mental, and emotional training in an atmosphere I really felt comfortable in. To me, it’s so important to feel comfortable with your given ‘sport of choice’. Especially since having well-being, health and staying active (in something ‘consistent’) basically boils down to realizing ‘how happy we are’ with the choices we make. Sometimes life’s circumstance (i.e., family, kids, work, obligations, etc.) has a unique way of interrupting our ability to take care of ourselves, if we let it. I simply can’t tell you how often I bump into someone saying to me, “Catherine, I just don’t have enough time to workout because…” in a given week/month. Yet, once I speak with individuals, in a group or one-on-one situation, their initial perspective and mindset changes and I love experiencing the immediacy of that.
So today, twenty-nine years later, I am still exercising. And I absolutely love it for how it makes me feel and for the dedication it takes to stay there and more. And know, I’ve faced physical adversity in injury on occasion over the years and in living with MS as I do, yet benign.
I believe anything we choose to take on in life has the same root structure as I’ve just described above. In other words, find something in life that ‘does it for you’ and the rest will follow. For me, my lifelong passion for exercise and movement started in the art form and essence of it as well as what it was doing for me physically, emotionally and spiritually: in building strength, establishing well-being, improving self-esteem, adding confidence and in fueling my warmth of heart.
Not to mention, all the wonderful people I was meeting along the way. So many wonderfully giving people were willing to teach and instruct me in my noted passion. I quickly became inspired to help other people exercise and find their unique passion for what they loved about fitness.
I am currently a Certified Fitness Trainer and a Certified Life Coach. Both vocations allow me to help people live healthier and happier lives with an understanding that anything is possible if you want it bad enough. Yes, it takes hard work, commitment, dedication, sweat and muscle plus heart to boot. I say, just believe in yourself and it will be yours with the effort you decide to put forth into doing it. I tell my children to try and try again, never to give up, think of succeeding and you will. Our positive thoughts determine the outcome of what we reap. As is the opposite, in having nothing. So, what we think, we are. What we believe, we are. I’m all about improving our thinking to improve our outcome(s) as it relates to sports and otherwise.
My current mission is helping newly diagnosed MS patients with their understanding of the disease and how they might empower themselves further in becoming more physically active through strength of muscle and mind. I’m also offering them hope and something tangible to put their minds around at a time where they might be feeling utterly vulnerable and alone.
My fitness approach has amazingly helped me. And I feel it’s my turn to help others whom I know can clearly benefit from my passion and love of exercise. For me, there’s nothing better than to inspire others to explore the possibilities in front of them.
Stay wonderfully on track (in staying present) as you are doing Jodi. You are well on your way!! The steps you are creating and are taking will prove to pave a solid road to wellness that you avidly seek. Each day is one day closer to your goal(s) and visions. Be true, be ever present, be kind, and be willing to greet the day with enthusiasm that puts a smile on your face and warmth in your heart. You will succeed with an “I can do” attitude throughout. A bit of patience too goes a long way and lasts as long as you continually choose it. Be well! :)
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Wow. Very cool Miss Catherine. How does one become a life coach? I think that is totally awesome that you can can change someone’s life by something you said or did. What a blessing you and Rachel are to ssssoooooo many!!! I’m thankful to have met you both. :o)
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Thank you Jodi for your sweetness in saying so! I am simply doing what comes naturally to me, and–I thank you. I see myself as someone who loves to share what I love doing myself. And what I’ve learned along the way, I ‘pass on’ with a warm smile and a piece of my heart. It’s people like you Jodi that make my journey all the worthwhile. :-)
Several years ago I was connected to an international company in North Carolina that put me through an extensive Corporate Coaching training program certification. It really was one of the best things I’ve ever done since I learned so much about myself and people in general. The experience of coaching has helped me reach people quite uniquely which adds to the quality of what I can give and offer to others in making a ‘real’ difference in their lives.
So tell me, how are you doing Jodi? What’s been going on with you lately around your activity-level?
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I started a low carb high ;rotein sort of deit on Monday. I’ve done really well and it’s easy to stay with. I’ve also started journaling and that has hel;ed SO MUCH, just to deal with everyday emotions, frustrations, etc. And the great thing is that if I write it down, I don’t want to run to the doughnut store! ;o) YAY! I don’t know, this time around it seems so different. Easier almost or like I am at ;eace with eating healthy and making good choices. So that ;art I am doing really well. As for the excercising…well I hadn’t done much exce;t for the normal chores, cleaning house, sho;;ing, hauling kids around etc. But I’m taking baby ste;s, lol!
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Hi Jodi!
Actually, I’m sooo glad to hear of your healthy diet approach regarding low-carb, high protein intake. I’m sure you’re finding yourself less hungry, more satiated in the course of the day. And, yes, journaling is something I do periodically myself. Especially at times when I need clarity on something. It makes me feel happy to hear that it’s easy for you to stay with overall. My gut is telling me that you enjoy writing which is a wonderful way to connect to yourself.
Keep your sights on what’s ahead going strong. You’re doing really fabulous! Small steps are important steps that move you forward as they are doing successfully. I admire that you are making good choices for yourself and in effect, for your family, too. Everyone benefits. Continue to enjoy what you like doing with a smile and with peacefulness in your heart!!:-)
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Okay Rachel and Cathrine…I’ve been doing some research and have found that to lose a ;ound a day you must burn 3,500 calories. That’s alot. Any suggestions on how to do that? Hel; me come u; with an excersice routine to burn if not that, close to that many calories. Yes I am setting a HUGE goal saying I want to burn that many calories a day, but I think it is ;ossible. I am comitted to changing my life and my health and I’m ready to starting doing just that! :o) Remember I weigh about 225 and I’m 5 foot 6. I have no health issues and can do a lot. Just because I have not been doing a lot doesn’t mean I can’t, right?
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OH and an exam;le of calories I have been takin is is this: Breakfast~1/4 cu; of cottage cheese, 1slice of 45 cal wheat breat and one small a;;le. Lunch~4oz tuna, about a cu; of broccli, one small a;;le. Dinner~ 4oz grilled chicken breast, cu; of brussel s;routs and 1 ts; ;eanut butter. I have being drinking atleast bottles of water a day (16.9 oz). This is ty;ically what I have been eating for the ;ast week. So how much excersize/calories would I need to burn to lose a ;ound a day? Thanks!!
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Sorry, it was su;;osed to say that I have been drinking at least THREE bottles of water a day (16.9 oz bottles). :0)
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Hi Jodi!
We’re back here, yay! Yes, 3500 calories is the number. Your given approach to lose weight could resemble something like this: let’s say, you decide to exercise (like walking for starters) and you’ll burn calories that way, great! In conjunction with that, you are already on your way diet wise from what you described above. The combination of doing exercise and cutting calories is wonderfully effective. Again, this is one type of approach to burning fat calories in the quest to losing weight. Water is wonderfully helpful in keeping you properly hydrated, not to mention full, and flushed-out, if you will. It works wonders for the complexion, too. I drink close to 64 oz. each day including my Kombucha Teas. You are definitely on track here! Stay on a steady course here Jodi!! Treat each day as each day…taking the incredible steps you are. Most importantly: Enjoy the journey of your designated plan in becoming healthier. You CAN do it. And I really know you can!!!! :)
~Catherine!
P.S. Please keep in mind that losing weight more slowly over a period of time has a much longer-lasting positive effect and is basically healthier, too.
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