I am the first to admit that I used to be intimidated by the word “exercise”. Every time I searched for an exercise program that may be a good fit for me I was hesitant to walk in the front door. The voice in my head ran through a list of all the why’s I shouldn’t; I don’t fit the norm of what a “fit” person looks like, no one will notice me, I’ll look awkward and out of place, what is the instructor saying, I don’t know what I’m supposed to do. I would try one class, feel like I failed and be so physically sore that I’d talk myself out of going back the next day.
The goal for exercise in my mind, at the time, was purely for physical prowess and external aesthetics. This exercise behavior was not contributing to my overall health as I was overlooking my mental and emotional health.
I was fortunate enough to have a friend that offered to try a group class with me. We attended our first class in spring 2010 using the classes to supplement our half marathon training. I noticed a difference right away in my mental and emotional health. I was able to cope with stress and anxiety, I had a longer attention span, I was a better wife, mother and employee with all the happy endorphins from early morning classes that had become my new routine. As I grew to love how I felt with emotional and mental stability I realized I had a passion to share the methodology of functional movement I had come to love with others and I became an Alkalign instructor in 2011. During my time as an instructor my goal has been to make a positive impact on one person’s day during class by connecting and delivering fun filled, balanced, and dynamic classes. This motivated me to further my focus to become a Cancer Exercise Trainer so I could bring the “fun” to functional movement to support those that have received a diagnosis of cancer.
I’ve transformed my mindset with regards to the word exercise; I now connect with participants using the following two mottos regarding it, “any movement is better than no movement” and “exercise is medicine”.
Did you know that…..
- resistance training can help maintain your bone density
- you can boost your lymphatic system through the use of exercise
- increase your flexibility and range of motion through stretching
- reduce peripheral neuropathy through stretching
If you’re intimidated to take the first step into virtual or in person classes or to start any type of movement/ exercise program and would like some support to get started please don’t hesitate to reach out to me.
Find Pauline on the Livestream Schedule
