Making Health a Priority

Monica got involved with the Y at 50, hoping to improve her health and overall wellbeing. At the time, she was overweight, didn’t like how she looked in photos, was watching her mom struggle with dementia, and had two teenagers at home. “I wanted to get healthier as I aged,” she said. “I didn’t want my kids to either lose their mom too soon—or have to take care of her.”

She initially signed up for Personal Training sessions. Intimidated by the gym, she had made it a New Year’s resolution—but on the day of her first session, she slipped on ice and broke her leg, putting training on hold. After physical therapy, she still had a limp and didn’t want that to define her future, so she returned to the idea of personal training.

That’s when she found Amanda. “Not going to lie—I was skeptical at first. The whole concept of fitness training was so foreign to me,” Monica said. Amanda’s fun, patient, and knowledgeable approach quickly changed that.

Amanda recognized that Monica’s challenges were more than physical. “A lot of my self-doubt was mental,” Monica said. “My mind had talked me into fearing re-injury, thinking I’d never use the ‘cool’ machines, or that I’d never lose weight. Amanda realized that and encouraged me without being fake or placating.”

Amanda has seen that growth firsthand. “It’s been great to see the progress and confidence Monica has gained since coming to me post injury,” Amanda said. “When she comes into a session telling me about something she was able to do that she struggled with before, I smile.”

Amanda tailored workouts to Monica’s size, confidence, and physical limitations, creatively modifying exercises so she could succeed. The equipment at the Ehlinger Center, including the EGYM machines, became key tools in her progress.

Two and a half years later, Monica is no longer limping. She’s enjoying workouts, experimenting with new routines, and even using the “cool machines” she once thought were out of reach. “I’m curious now,” she said. “I want to try new things, get stronger, lift heavier, and push my cardio. Clothes fit better, I’ve lost weight, and I can’t wait to see what Amanda comes up with next.”

Monica feels healthier now than she did at 50—and is committed to maintaining that momentum. “Because of the Y, I’m finally making my health a priority. I would have lost interest or gotten scared away if it hadn’t been for Amanda and the Y.”