Modern Athlete Magazine Issue 54, January 2014 | Page 19

My Story Magical Motivation What makes us get up in the mornings, especially when it’s still dark and cold outside? It’s something magical called motivation. After being diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome in my wrist, I pushed myself and now pursue fitness in my job, encouraging people to be the best they can be. – BY MICHELLE ROZOWSKY I t’s a combination of things that motivate me to push as hard as I do – from an illness that changed my life forever, to the people, past and present, who have influenced me in numerous ways. When I was much younger, I looked up to my sister who was a Springbok swimmer. At school, I took up gymnastics and swimming, which I think was the beginning of my drive in sport, and it definitely instilled the discipline required to achieve all the things I have! OVERCOMING HARDSHIP Image: Jetline Action Photo It was a harder path for me. In 2010, I was diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome in my wrist, which forced me to look at my life differently and make some radical changes in order to manage the condition. The chronic disease causes swelling, severe pain and changes in the skin. It took a while to be diagnosed properly and there were little things I couldn’t do – like a job in an office with a computer! That was a real low point in my life, but after a while, after getting out on the road again, I figured that I needed to be strong. There was nothing wrong with my legs, and I was motivated to do the rehab for my wrist, and at that point my mind took over. I ran, ate healthily and meditated, and I knew that this illness could give me the opportunity to give back to others in the fitness lifestyle I adored. FOLLOWING A PASSION So I took the brave leap from the corporate world to start my own Adventure Boot Camp franchise. I remember going through the training as a franchisee and I couldn’t even manage a pushup! But I had a strong mind and I remain grateful for the opportunity that was given to me. I was always scared to do personal training, but I knew that I could motivate people and myself. After all, exercise was my number one passion. Despite having a hand that stuck out like a claw, leaving me unable to do anything that meant using my left arm and wrist, I remained positive. I believe that being a great motivator is a gift that some people are born with, but it is a quality that can also be honed if one is doing something that you are truly passionate about. That’s me! I followed what I wanted to in life and after three-anda-half years, I’ve established two camps in Norwood and Illovo in Johannesburg. The real challenge now is to change it up for the current members, keeping classes fun and fresh. A lot of people come to class after a long day, so I like motivating them to better themselves. As for me? I’m planning to run my first marathon soon, and want to take some Boot Camp members through with me. I suffered a split cartilage in my knee at the Old Ed’s 21km, so I’ve been out Danny on his way to for a bit, but I’m ready his first half marathon to come back fighting finish at the 2013 again! Images: Courtesy Gwen Sparks & Michelle Rozowsky I remember getting into running after I met Monika Kraushaar when I signed up for my first Adventure Boot Camp class. We ran our first 10km at the RAC 10km and inspired each other to take our running a step further. Monika went onto Comrades and climbing Kilimanjaro, after overcoming some serious injuries along the way, and it motivated me to be better. I don’t think I have ever met such a strong-willed individual. For more info about Adventure Boot Camp franchises, call 021 447 2746 / 082 567 2267, visit www.adventurebootcamp.co.za or e-mail [email protected]. Two Oceans. 19