What type of change did you make in your life? Or what goal did you set out to achieve? 

I decided I needed to get back into lifting again to help with stress. It always helped with my stress levels in college before covid hit. I had just moved to Rochester to start the Radiography Program. Between lecture, clinicals, studying, and work I needed to find an outlet. My main goal when starting at the DAHLC was to gain muscle.

What are some challenges you faced that elicited that change or that made you want to go for that goal? What barriers did you run into while pursuing your goal? 

At first, I started going to the gym with my friend and we started off with a program that I used to do. It was working just fine. I saw there was a post for an Olympic lifting class. I really missed doing those types of lifts. Both my friend and I found the class and started going. It was great. We were able to brush up on our technique and didn’t have to think about programing for lifting each day.

What are some factors that helped you make that change or that helped you achieve your goal? List any specific services you used at the DAHLC. 

The biggest challenge for me was injuring my shoulder from falling. I had a rotator cuff tear. It wasn’t fun having to avoid upper body for two months, but since I was going to strength club the trainers helped me figure out a plan for the days I came to workout.

What would you tell or encourage someone with who is in your old shoes and doesn’t know where to start? Anything in particular that inspired you throughout your journey? 

For anyone struggling with starting, don’t wait till Monday to start. Start today. Start with a class if you don’t know where to start. Find a friend and start going with them. Everyone has to start from the beginning so don’t let that stop you. My biggest reason for success is my friend by keeping me accountable and showing up.

How does the future look different than it did before? 

Over time, I have gained strength which I have found has helped significantly with moving patients at my job. My energy has increased, I need less sleep, and I am excited to go to the gym each day to see the small improvements. I also have the confidence to go to any gym, have proper form, and know I can succeed at the gym.

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