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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