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BONNIE WALKER-ARMSTRONG
I refer to my age generically as 55 + because I refuse to encourage people to define or limit me based on a number .
I am formally trained as an attorney , but I am currently pursuing my interests and ministry as a consultant , motivational speaker and coach in lifestyle enhancement .
Since 2006 , the Louisville Athletic Club ( LAC ) has provided me with a solid facility for obtaining group fitness classes and self-directed floor exercises . Equally if not more important , it has also given me an extended family to join and support my journey to a healthier life . I have established genuine relationships with young men who are my “ second sons ” and women who are my sisters from another mother . When I feel 55 + or my motivation is lagging , I can always look to them to cheer me on . Likewise , I encourage them in their exercise efforts and use my years to provide guidance on non-exercise matters to help them achieve the best life possible
As a two-time cancer survivor who learned that obesity is a great risk factor for cancer , I am blessed to have maintained an 80 to 90 pound weight loss for the past 11 years . I am also pleased that in September 2016 I rode 100 miles in the Bike to Beat Cancer event that raised funds for cancer research and programs in this community . Realizing I have advanced degenerative disc disease and spinal stenosis , I believe God enabled me to complete that feat to inspire others to step out of their comfort zones to live life to its fullest .
A current and immediate challenge is that I have had to modify my exercise program because of being in a car accident last December . Often I experience some discomfort , but I have decided that modification instead of termination is the key to this life reality . As long as my therapists agree I am functioning at a level where I am not aggravating my situation , I will continue with a modified workout program .
Additionally , for the rest of my life I will face the challenge of being a “ foodaholic .” Just like alcoholism it is a life time condition , but unlike an alcoholic , I have to deal with food daily in order to live . However , learning how to realign my food choices and putting structure into my relationship with food along with maintaining an exercise program are the best opponents for my demon .
God , my immediate family ( especially my son ) and my extended LAC family are my biggest supporters in this journey . Years ago , my son took a bold move to share that he was angry at me because I was killing myself with my poor food habits and inactivity . That proved to be a major change motivator for me .
My advice to someone who wants to improve his or her chances for a healthier life is to stop looking at the exercise infomercials like movies and salivating at the claims of easy and overnight weight loss for the supplements featured in many magazines . Understand that improving your health does not come immediately , but it is possible if you decide you are important enough to make the sacrifices and put in the time . Instead of continuing to talk about it , just get up and do it . Start out in a place like LAC where you can be in a community of people who are attacking the problems you need to address . It ’ s not too late until God says your time is up !
My fitness plan includes exercise five to six days a week and a changed way of eating . My meals are low fat with adequate protein from chicken , turkey , cheese or vegetable protein and a lot of vegetables and fruits . I have learned that I can still have a good quantity to my meals without a lot of calories when I eliminate the fatty meats and increase my vegetables and use fruit as a regular part of the meal .
I also incorporate physical activity into vacations and my life generally whenever possible . I love dancing , Zumba and Refit weekend events , riding my bike , walking in the park and I even challenge a friend on the basketball court on occasion . I am trying to stay fit by eating healthy and moving at every chance I can .
Photo by David Harrison
42 EXTOL SPORTS / JUNE 2017