After teaching school for many years, and having had no time for myself or any exercise, I was badly out of shape. I had lost muscle-tone and gained some weight. Several months after retiring, I joined the Janesville Athletic Club hoping to get in shape so I could do the activities I used to enjoy (snow skiing, hiking, biking, canoeing), lose weight, improve my bone density, and hopefully get off my cholesterol medication.

When I joined the club, I started in the Silver Sneakers class using 2-pound weights. After a few months, I decided to try the Senior Power Pump class (7:30 AM). he first day I rolled right off the ball and landed on my bottom! I eventually developed enough core strength to stay on the ball. I even started using heavier weights. I also started attending a regular Power Pump class. This class is definitely challenging, but with some modifications, I am able to do most of the exercises.

About a month after joining the club, I decided to start walking on the track after class. One day, I noticed an older person running, and decided to give it a try. I had not run since high school gym class. I ran about 30 steps before I had to stop to catch my breath. Every day, I tried to run farther. It definitely helps to have other people on the track to motivate me to keep going.

I’m now able to complete a mile in about 12 minutes. My knees feel better than before I joined the club. Over the past weekend, I was able to run up and down the street helping our granddaughter learn to ride her 2-wheeler. I’m using 5-pound and 7½-pound weights in class. I’ve lost 9 pounds (8% of my body weight), and my doctor has agreed to a 3 month trial without cholesterol medication.

I owe my success to the highly qualified instructors at the club. They strive to make their classes enjoyable, but challenging. They offer modifications if the exercises are too difficult. They let you know it’s okay to work at your own pace, but also encourage you to push out a few more reps or try heavier weights when appropriate.

The other club members have played a role in my success also. They have been very welcoming and friendly which has contributed to my motivation to come to the club 4-5 times per week.