I used to tell myself every excuse… I don’t have the time, it costs too much, it’ll be too hard.

But then I realized I needed to make myself a priority or nothing would change.

Since starting at Encompass I have quit smoking, my body has really been changing and I show up consistently. 

But it wasn’t always easy…

Before starting at Encompass I was nervous and a bit scared and intimidated.  It's always hard starting a new activity when you don't really know anyone.  I didn't want to show up and get judging looks. I couldn’t do a sit up and I thought I would look awkward and people would judge me as I flailed around. Even though it felt awkward and embarrassing, no one ever laughed. They just kept encouraging me and now I can do sit ups and have gone from using 5 pound weights to 15’s. 

Then, I put off joining Encompass because I couldn't justify the cost. Now I’ve realized that my health should have always been a priority. Starting at Encompass helped me quit smoking which saves me far more money, even with a membership! My priorities have completely shifted - now I can’t imagine spending money on smoking and I can’t imagine not taking care of my health. 

I would also tell myself that I didn’t have the time. But deep down I knew that was an excuse too. If I could find the time to sit and watch tv in the evenings, I could find the time to exercise for a few minutes a day. Ironically, I am exercising now and feel like I have more time in the day. I have way more energy and I don’t want to watch tv as often. 

I’ve learned to put my excuses aside and change my life. 

 But it wasn’t just putting my excuses aside in the beginning… I still have to put my excuses aside; when I would rather go out for supper than go to the gym, when life is stressful and I have no energy, or when I would just rather sit on the couch. But when the excuses pop up I try to change the excuses around so that they benefit me and I remind myself that I am worth it and when I put my excuses aside I feel better. 

And I do. I feel great when I walk into Encompass.

Unlike other places I toured, Encompass offered a week trial that allowed me to test it out and was a great way to get a foot in the door and test it out. I learned that the more you go the more you get to know others, which makes it even easier to go as you build friendships and hold each other accountable.  We're excited to see each other and often curious if we haven't seen each other. I've also had so much encouragement and high fives from others in attendance which I love! And I like that the staff really get to know you and are so supportive.  

I’ve learned so much about myself; like that I need to come everyday and make it one of my daily habits. By doing this and committing to my health, I have noticed more definition around my midsection and I want to keep that going!   

Overall, I drink more water, I've started taking vitamins, and I am motivated to eat better and continue working out. 

If you are telling yourself excuses as to why you can’t, or are afraid of getting started, remind yourself of everything you’ll gain when you put your excuses aside.

If I can do it - you can too!