Vanessa and her husband, Kirby, on their annual bike trip. There might only be a year between these photo's, but what seems like an entire world of difference when it comes to health, confidence, and energy.
They say the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.
When I started with Encompass, as a Kickstart participant, I had no desire to change anything about my lifestyle, but definitely wanted (and needed) to lose weight. I reluctantly agreed to join the Kickstart with my friend, but said, in no uncertain terms, that there was no way I was going to be going to any group fitness classes.
Fast forward 18 months.
Not only do I attend group classes 5 times a week, but I also walk and jog 5 – 6 days a week, and actually miss it when I can’t get it in.
Looking back, I try to put myself in the mindset I had then, and the reason why.
PRIDE
My pride was in the way. I am a smart person, I can lose this weight on my own. I don’t need help.
What if I do the program and I fail?
EVERYONE would know I was trying to lose weight and failed...
What if I go to exercise classes and I can’t do it? EVERYONE will be looking at me and know I can’t do it...
Rather than be humiliated by failure, best not to try, right?
Wrong.
I can say, without any doubt, there is no judgement at Encompass. EVERYONE wants you to be the best you can be. The staff celebrate your successes and help you navigate the bumps (and there are bumps, darn it). The members encourage each other, and are so proud of others’ accomplishments.
I have no time or energy to look at others’ in class and make judgements, I’m focused on getting through the workouts. But on occasion, you do take note of others... and I can tell you this:
Not once have I looked at a member in class and thought, ugh, look at her/him…can’t do this, can’t do that….
I HAVE looked at a member in class, especially at the beginning and thought, I remember struggling and looking at all these “fit” people, and wishing I could be just like them.
I HAVE looked at a member in class and thought, look at her/him go ….that’s amazing, he/she has made so much progress.
I HAVE looked at a member in class and thought, wow, he/she looks fantastic. Sometimes, I even catch that person after class and tell them, because it sure is nice to hear. I remember people pulling me aside and telling me the same kinds of things, and it really means a lot.
My advice to you would be:
If you want a change, Encompass is a safe place to start making those very scary lifestyle changes.
There is no judgement, only encouragement.
What are you waiting for?
Vanessa Marcotte,
Encompass Member
