I teach fitness at Kansas/Missouri’s most prestigious (and, by far, largest) gym, Lifetime Fitness.  It’s a great gig.  I have great classes and wonderful students who’s asses I kick three times a week.

This year, I celebrate my 12^th year teaching fitness to the masses.   I got started back in ’97 right after I had just lost a whopping 70 lbs.  My trainer was so inspiring and motivational that I found I had a knack for learning her routines.  After a year of following her lead, she said, “You know these routines better than me – have you ever thought about teaching classes?”  I nearly fell over.  70lbs. earlier, I couldn’t even finish a half-hour class without blacking out.

Seems like every gym I teach at, I’m always the token male instructor.  People come in and gawk at me like I’m a unicorn.  And because I’m not the buffest guy on the planet, newcomers often look at me with a bit of disdain.  I always say the same thing, “I will literally kick your ass.  I will bury you.  When I’m through with you – you will wish you were never born.”  (Or something like that.)

Usually, that’s how I cajole guys in to trying my class.  Once I throw down and challenge their manhood, it’s ON!  That’s the beauty of the male ego – it’s easily crushed. 

From time to time, I’ll invite guests to my class.  They are usually friends or acquaintances eager to try out my oh-so gorgeous club.  A few weeks ago, my friend Sheri joined me for class … on her BIRTHDAY.  Believe me, there are thousands of things I’d rather do on my BDay than workout, but Sheri was determined.  She’s recently lost – get this – over 70lbs.  And now she’s kicking ass and taking names.

For a while, Sheri would talk the talk, but wouldn’t walk the walk.  She didn’t think she could do an entire class.  By the time her BDay rolled around, Sheri was ready to go for it.  Not only did she keep up, she more than held her own.  To say I was impressed was an understatement.  Halfway through class she became Xena:  Warrior Princess.

I distinctly remember the day I hit my goal weight back in ’97.  My trainer announced she had a present for me.   She then wheeled in a gigantic wrapped present.  I opened the box to find two 35lb. weights inside.  I was perplexed … she got me dumbbells?   Then my trainer said, “Take those weights and take two laps around the gym.”  One lap in and I was furiously huffing and puffing – to which my trainer coolly said, “That’s what it was like before, my friend.”  I immediately started bawling like a four-year old because I realized what a journey I had taken.

It’s been quite a flashback watching Sheri become the incredible shrinking woman.  She’s never looked better.  She’s never had more spring in her step.  And she’s never been so sassy.  She’s the new Jan Brady.  So thanks Sheri for coming to class on your BDay … it made my day.  Hope it made yours!