MAKE MYSELF A PRIORITY*

Before I started training with Shape Plus, I was not the cliché scenario where I woke up overweight one morning and couldn’t recognize myself. I actively and hopelessly watched myself lose who I was as I went through some of the most stressful years of my life. At the time I thought I was doing what was best for everyone including myself, by just surviving while I took care of the emotional and physical needs of others. What I failed to recognize was that I still needed to make myself a priority. I think a lot of people struggle with the idea of putting themselves first, but what they don’t understand is that they can make themselves a priority, even if it isn’t the priority. I finally decided that I was worth being a priority, especially to myself. At Shape Plus I found myself, friends, family, and a home. When I first walked through the doors, I was absolutely terrified. My palms were sweating, my hands were shaking, and I wanted to throw up. I was terrified of being judged, of not knowing how to use any of the equipment, and of not knowing where this would lead. Sure, I saw all of the testimonials online, and I saw what other people were capable of, but what was I capable of? My personal trainer, Jess, was ecstatic to show me. What I am capable of, as it turns out, is 37 pounds of weight loss and 4 dress sizes, doing sprints up the stairs at the end of the workout when I already feel like collapsing, and lunging with 135 pounds on my shoulders. I am capable of doing cardio 5 days a week even when I really don’t want to. I am capable of making healthy choices while I am with friends, and building healthy nutritional meals that keep me on track. I am capable of smiling, laughing, and loving myself. This decision to make my body better turned into a quest to make my life better, and Shape Plus was there every step of the way. Because of Jess, my workout girls, and the entire Shape Plus family, I have learned that it’s ok to love myself, to be proud of my accomplishments, and to reach beyond my capabilities. I am forever grateful to Jess and the Shape Plus family for showing me something amazing. – Alyse H.