Omayra Acevedo, Peak to Peak. Today I challenged myself. Physically. I decided to go to the gym (as I do a few times a week) and put myself through a cardio and core conditioning routine. Sometimes finding the motivation to get dressed and drive yourself to the fitness center can be the most difficult part – even for me. Once you get there, then what? Well, you might as well W.O.R.K!

For some of us it is easy. I’m a complete addict when it comes to the gym. It’s one of many reasons I decided to teach fitness for the past 12 years. It is part of the lifestyle I have chosen to live. There I was at the gym. I changed my shoes, got my playlist ready, filled up my water bottle and took a squat to place my 30-pound weighted vest over my head and on my shoulders.

I secured the vest straps to my liking and took off. The music in my ears choreographed every step as I began to breathe heavier and heavier with every stride. My heart pressed strongly against my chest. I could feel it. For 12 minutes, I ran. Less than five minutes into my routine, I felt the sweat rolling from my neck down to the small of my back. I was getting high – MY WAY! I had been feeling so worn-out from working multiple jobs, seven days a week that my workouts have become my salvation. 

After running, I proceeded into the studio to set up a cardio and core circuit station. I started with 45-second intervals of jump rope, right into crunches and planks, followed by cardio drills that included running up and down stairs, jump squats and a few others. Yes, I kept my 30-pound weighted vest on the entire time. 

I ended my workout with a 15-minute stair climber interval cool down. Fifty-five minutes after getting to the rec center, I caught a glance of myself in one of the mirrors. My cheeks were red, my hair drenched, my legs were shaking, and the corners of my mouth reached new heights. I was on cloud nine.

I teach fitness and I love it! I challenge myself the same way I challenge my students. Several of which have asked me why it is that I am constantly challenging myself in my workouts. The answer is very simple and one I wish for you to think about next time you find yourself at the gym: Without challenge, there is no change. 

(Originally published in the December 12, 2019, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)