The Journey to Fitness: A Black Woman's Story in 2022

 The Journey to Fitness: A Black Woman's Story

When I started my journey to fitness, I knew that I wanted it to be one that was inclusive of my blackness and identity, but I didn’t have any idea how to start or what it would look like. This blog post shares the story of my first steps into fitness as a black woman and what has worked for me so far. Hopefully, you’ll find some of these tips useful in your own journey!

Why I Got Started

For me, getting started on my fitness journey was about more than just looking good. I wanted to be healthy and feel good about myself, inside and out. I also knew that if I didn't make a change, I would only continue to get bigger and bigger, which would lead to even more health problems down the road. So I made the decision to get fit, and it was one of the best decisions I've ever made. In the beginning, it was tough! I had to find time in my day to squeeze in workouts. And there were plenty of days when I had to take an extra 10 minutes during my lunch break at work or skip happy hour with friends so that I could get some exercise in. But now that I'm used to working out regularly and eating right, those things don't seem as important anymore.

Getting Motivated

For me, fitness has always been a journey. I'm not one of those people who was born with a love for working out or eating healthy. In fact, it took me a long time to find my motivation. But once I did, there was no stopping me! Motivation was the key that unlocked the door and allowed me to explore this world of health and wellness in all its glory. Now I want nothing more than to help others unlock their own doors.

My Workout Routine

I start my day with a morning walk or run. I try to get in at least 30 minutes of cardio per day. I also strength train three days per week. I focus on compound movements that work multiple muscle groups at once. Finally, I make sure to stretch and foam roll every day. I stretch before and after workouts. When it comes to food, I eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, proteins (chicken breast, eggs), and carbs (oatmeal). I avoid alcohol for the most part as well as processed foods like fast food or processed snacks like cookies.

Staying Focused

As a black woman, it can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life and forget about taking care of yourself. But it's important to remember that taking care of your health is crucial for living a long and happy life. Here are some tips for staying focused on your fitness journey 1) Schedule time for exercise into your daily routine 

2) Keep healthy snacks handy at all times 

3) Don't let setbacks discourage you from pursuing your goals 

4) Be aware of what foods you're eating and how they affect you

My Diet Plan

I'm not on a diet, I'm on a journey. And this is what my plan looks like. 

I'm going to eat healthy foods that make me feel good and give me the energy I need to pursue my fitness goals. 

I'm going to listen to my body and respect its needs. 

I'm going to be patient with myself, knowing that this is a marathon, not a sprint. When I stumble, I'll get back up again. When life knocks me down, I'll get back up again.

Building Confidence

For me, fitness is about so much more than just looking good. It's about feeling good, having energy and being able to do the things I love without getting winded. It's also about building confidence. When I'm working out and taking care of my body, I feel strong and capable of taking on anything. My workouts have helped me learn that it's OK to take up space and assert myself. 

I don't need to be any less of a woman because I want to be healthy or strong. I can work towards those goals while still wearing a dress or heels or make-up if that's what makes me happy. As long as I'm healthy, fit and feeling good about myself in my own skin, that should be enough for anyone else too. And, most importantly, it's important to remember that one size does not fit all when it comes to fitness. We are all unique with different needs and desires. We're not trying to mold ourselves into a certain image--we're trying to live our best lives by doing what feels right for us.

Getting Over the Hurdles

I never thought I would be the type of person to care about fitness. I was always the big girl and was comfortable with my curves. But as I got older, I realized that my health was at risk. I knew I had to make a change. And so I started out slow, just doing 15 minutes on the elliptical every day. The first few weeks were hard but eventually it became easier and more routine. Now, 10 years later, my whole life has changed! In this time, I have been able to get in shape and lose over 100 pounds. 

I am now living proof that no matter how difficult your journey is going to be, you can do it if you believe in yourself and work for what you want. When I'm asked by other women what they should do to start their own fitness journeys, I tell them all the same thing - find something you enjoy and start slowly. If you're not sure where to start, go online or ask someone who might know. There are also tons of great workout videos available online these days too! Don't be afraid to try new things until you find something that works for you. You will feel better about yourself and those around you will see an amazing transformation before their eyes.