I didn't train last night because something came up and I had to take today off, so I worked late but I did get a workout at work....I carried 33, 27 inch monitors down I to the basement at work to be distributed later...that's 66 flights of steps! I was surprised at how well I did and how strong I felt! That is progress considering in June I could hardly walk up or down the stairs. It just reenforced that The training is so worth it. In the past when I would try to exercise and would always go in like a bull in a china shop, full force and always ended up hurting myself. You see I didn't see when I was pushing to far, Elle does and stops me before I cause damage, modifying my workout in some way to hit the same muscles but in a way that doesn't cause damage.

I honestly think that anyone who has physical limitations and has the means or opportunity to work with a CERTIFIED and EXPERIENCED trainer should do it, even if it's only to get started. After my injury in 2005 I could not stand up straight, walk more than 3 steps without pain and had to crab crawl up and down my stairs, I was in constant pain and my ortho recommended surgery after PT failed and told me I would never walk without a cane or walker again...I was 36 years old!!! I chose to try a personal trainer first and so happy I did. I did great BUT I couldn't keep up the pace of 7 days per week at the gym and training 2xs per week when I got sick for 8 months with constant sinus infections and ended up with phemonia and mono. Then the doctors put me on oral steroids for treatment which made me gain weight. Then I had a pity party for several years. This time around I'm committing to the gym the two days I train with Elle because when training is over two days a week is doable and I focus more on my diet and healthy choices. That's the difference, this time it's practical and sustainable. Knowing where I am today and where I would be if I had listened to the doctor...I would be out on permanent disability and in constant pain. I'm thankful I second guessed the doctor. He was mad when I told him and then when I told him I wanted to try the trainer first and even madder when it paid off for me.

It's amazing how simple movement can strengthen muscles and increase ability of movement. With the first trainer I thought we were focusing on strengthening my injured ankle but was actually working my upper and lower at the same time, I just didn't realize that simple things could make such a difference, I always thought you had to be more mobile to train...I was so wrong. So both my trainers taught me to believe in myself, baby steps are still steps forward, a happy medium is best, moderation, modification create motivation.

Have a great Friday and believe in yourselves because we all have it in us to suceed.