At 10-years old, I found myself watching a women's bodybuilding competition. As I watched in wonder, admiring their 'overextraordinarily' ripped bodies, my heart surged and I knew I had to have a bit (a great bit) of that poise, glitz, and confidence. Even then, I knew I didn't want to be so big, too muscular, or a boy 'knock-off'. Unfortunately at the time, our sport of bodybuilding hadn't developed into the many divisions we have today, to include: figure, fitness, physique and bikini, all of which embrace of a woman's strength, femininity, discipline, and grace. Whatever your competition preference, we all have to tip our hats to those trailblazer women who were laying fitness tracks by pumping some serious iron and representing women in a truly male-dominated sport. I bet they even advised some of their big-boy counterparts on occasion. I know I have definitely had to from time to time.
Twenty-three years later, having been a faithful follower of the fitness industry, I decided to take the fitness plunge, starting with a career change. I was going to take the fitness world by storm making my entry point in the game as a personal trainer. Reasonable. Something I already knew I was good at, even before getting formally educated and certified. Plus it was a way to genuinely help people in need. It didn't hurt that I would be in the gym everyday with opportunity to test my theories, develop my craft and perfect my skills while training myself. So...I was in. Feet first. Don't look. Just jump. 'Bye-bye' 10 years of teaching. 'Hello' new and uncharted territory. I was terrified. Totally electrified! But READY!!
So before my world goes topsy-turvy (and you know every good story goes topsy-turvy), let it be known, many considered me to be a great trainer. I was grateful to the fitness manager that hired me and considered blessed to work for the greatest gym on the planet. Consequently, even as an entry level trainer, I took pride in the personal attention I gave to each client; monitoring every move and reviewing each skill taught. I was thrilled to teach skills that could be used beyond our training 'season', life-long, applicable knowledge. After a year and a half as personal trainer I was off to a great start. I had established a decent clientele. I was an effective, well-known group fitness instructor. I was ready to pursue more training certifications. I was ready to consider competing. My mom, Pat Wilson, had always been a consistent supporter of my training and competing dreams. When she passed away unexpectedly (topsy-turvy), a big part of my family's support system passed with her. How she helped me and my husband with our four kids (three in elementary school)! She filled in the gaps by playing taxi, chef, nurse and nanny. A true blessing.
So now I had to return to my former profession, teaching. And let me tell ya, I went kicking and screaming inside. But as God would have it, I landed in the right place. The great Grace E. Hardeman Elementary School was great for me and even better for my children. I owe this wonderful faculty so much for taking us in and loving us so.
In the meantime, the fitness dream just won't die. Ignoring it doesn't work. Pushing it deep down inside only fuels it. Distracting yourself from it is only temporary. I simply can't shake this bug and yet it makes me incredibly happy. So shouldn't it make me money also? The fitness industry is a $30 billion industry. So there's enough room for me....if you I have what it takes!
COMING SOON: Blowing Up in the Fitness Industry: (part 2)
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