Back in August of last year, I decided it was time to get my health in line. After getting married, I gained weight like a lot of women do. Mind you, it wasn’t like 50 pounds or enough to make my scale burst, but enough for me to notice and do something about it.

Against my husband’s wishes, I hired a trainer at my gym. It wasn’t cheap, hence why my husband did not want me to do it. But, that same day I had learned from my doctor that I had high cholesterol. For someone who had only turned 30 and has never had children, I have no excuse for being overweight or having high cholesterol.

Hiring the trainer was the best thing I could have done for myself. I not only lost the weight, but I lost inches and gained more muscle mass. I’m leaner, and I fit in my clothes better. I am even eating better, though I admit I’m still weak at the smell and sight of a big bowl of popcorn!!!

The money it cost to hire the trainer was well worth it. It paid off, and here is why. No amount of money could be better spent than on my own health, my life! I could have gone shopping instead and bought some really awesome shoes and clothes at my favorite store. I could have gambled it in a casino or bar. I could have wasted it any place else. Instead, I used it as momentum. And now, it’s not a chore for me to go to the gym. I actually like it. I want to be there.

Lastly, if you ever need a little inspiration, just walk into a gym anywhere and look at the people there. Two people I don’t even know gave me the inspiration. One of whom was an elderly man peddling away on a stationary bike in front of the treadmill I was begrudgingly treading along. I noticed him, but I didn’t see him until he got up and left the bike with the assistance of a walker! “Well,” I said to myself, “if he can make himself come to the gym everyday, so can I.”

Then, there was Monday. My former trainer, who I liked to call my gym boyfriend was with a new client. Again, I had seen this girl in the locker room, but I didn’t really look at her. Until I saw him working out with her. Then I saw that she is blind! She was working out harder than most of the people at that gym! It made me feel good to see that. And it made me realize I have every reason to be there, making myself a healthier person.

If that isn’t inspiration, I don’t know what is……..

So get moving. You will reap the reward!