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When we saw those girls pull their hair back in a ponytail and lift those HUGE weights we thought, “Dear Lord, what are two out-of-shape, overweight senior citizens doing here?!?” The coaches, though, were so helpful and knowledgeable.

Member Of: 

Farmgirlfit Spokane

Occupation: 

Retired from state government, currently working part time as a lunch lady at Rogers High School – Go Pirates!

Tell us about your fitness journey, and how it led to Farmgirlfit:

I have always tried to be active, but working at a desk for over 30 years took a toll on my health and fitness. When I went to work as a lunch lady I knew it would be physically demanding, but it still is not enough. My friend Ruth and I joined initially because we saw it was close to our homes (seriously).

Everyone was super nice when we joined, but when we saw those girls pull their hair back in a ponytail and lift those HUGE weights we thought, “Dear Lord, what are two out-of-shape, overweight senior citizens doing here?!?” The coaches, though, were so helpful and knowledgeable and worked hard to modify certain moves so that we could get a good workout. Due to health issues, Ruth couldn’t continue. At that point my goal was to just keep coming back. I really feel at my age it is critical that I get myself into better shape. That was 9 months ago, and I feel I am working hard towards that goal.

What has been your greatest fitness (performance) accomplishment so far?

Well I did run a marathon over 30 years ago, but recently I feel pretty good about being able to do a Level 1 workout. When I started I wasn’t even on the charts. Some days I can even do some Level 2 moves. Never thought that I would see that day!

How has Farmgirlfit helped on your health/fitness journey? What future goals do you have?

Since joining Farmgirlfit I have lost about 25 pounds and gained a whole lot of muscle. I have learned to push myself beyond what I ever thought was possible, and I have been pretty consistent about attending. It’s a positive lifestyle change for me. Working on my nutrition is my next goal.

What is your Favorite exercise at Farmgirlfit? Least Favorite?

Seeing any weight lifting or running on the board makes me happy. Plate pushes make me want to run away!

My favorite thing about Farmgirlfit is: 

The coaches who are so supportive and kind. The members who encourage me every workout. I love that someone is always willing to be my partner, or have me on their team even though they know it’s going to be a time killer. They also don’t seem to mind too much when I ask for the 100th time what exercise comes next. I am all for fun, and the coaches and members are just all so fun!

When you are not pumping iron, what does the rest of your life look like? 

I have six grandkids and four great-grands and they rock my world. I love having summers off because I get in the car with one or more of the kids and go on an adventure. I usually travel about 4,000 miles a summer. The rest of the year I like to ride my bike and snowshoe.

Any advice for new members?

I was told by a member during my first workout that I should expect results, and it’s SO TRUE! I can see improvement every workout, so my advice is this: No matter where you are on your fitness journey, it doesn’t take long to see progress here. It’s pretty encouraging and keeps you coming back. Also, DO NOT be intimidated – everyone is working on something, just on different levels.