Commitment.......

Commitment. To yourself.  To your health. And yes, to others.

I normally don't publish my blog directly to Facebook; my link is on my page and anyone can read if they care to. However, I felt like tonight, it would be a good way to get this message out.

It's no secret I love to teach BodyPump. What this program has done for me over the last several years is almost beyond words for me. I made a commitment when I made the choice to become an instructor; a commitment not only to myself, but mostly to those that I would be fortunate to lead through an amazing workout. A workout that with COMMITMENT, can change your body, your life, your functional strength, your self confidence, your outlook in so many areas of your life. It can change the way you decide to fuel your body. It can change how you are able to play with your children, or how well you can do your job. It spills over in other areas of your life and can make you want to treat your body in the way it deserves by exercising regularly. But it takes work.

I committed to becoming the kind of instructor that I was fortunate enough to have while I was a participant. An instructor that not only had high expectations for themselves, but one that also demanded the best that each individual person could bring to their workout. An instructor who modeled excellent technique, corrected and encouraged their members, brought enthusiasm and motivated people at each and every class.

This is my commitment to my participants. I teach 4 classes a week at 2 gyms. What I hope for, what I aspire to instill in each and every participant is that commitment I spoke of above. This is 60 minutes out of your day. Yes, I understand things get in the way, life happens. I didn't say it was easy, this commitment to yourself. It helps to plan ahead if possible, pack your clothes and put your gym bag in the car so you don't have to go home after work. I am fortunate enough to work in a profession that doesn't require me to work until 5:00 or commute far. I show up for class early and I stay after in case anyone has questions. BodyPump has taken off at 24 Hour Fitness and passes are required in many of our classes now to ensure that everyone has a spot to stand on and equipment to work out with. Getting to the gym early will guarantee you a great workout.

My request is this: think enough of yourself, LOVE yourself enough to take care of YOU. Make a commitment to better health - whether it's getting to the gym 3 days a week, or eating healthier. But once you make a commitment, stick to it as best you can. Come to BodyPump or any other class that fuels your soul and makes you feel good.

Commit to the ENTIRE class. Come on time. Stay for the cool down. Don't walk in 20 minutes late and leave 10 minutes early. It is unsafe to jump into a workout without being properly warmed up. You are not only cheating yourself out of the full benefit of the entire class, you are preventing others from the same right. If you can't make it on time for whatever reason, you can still get in a workout on the gym floor and come to class another day. It is not only a commitment to yourself, but it is also a commitment to the other members in whatever class you are interrupting as you rush in late.  This is not a class that can or should be done with hand weights, nor is it designed to be effective and safe without the proper equipment. Coming on time ensures you will get the barbell and weights you need to get strong fast, safely and effectively.

It is only 60 minutes out of your day. Aren't you worth it? I know you are.

COMMIT.