By: Michele Varon

I've struggled with weight all of my life.  In 1999, I started doing Jazzercise and Weight Watchers and started seeing results, and then I had my first baby.  It was hard to get back in the swing of things. After my second child in 2004, I tried really hard to get back to a healthy weight, but wasn’t seeing the results.  I started spinning and doing weight training and I started losing weight and transforming my body. I noticed that weight training and being kept accountable were the keys to success! 

After doing well for a few months, Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005 and life was put on hold.  Not only was it difficult to find healthy food because grocery stores were limited, gyms weren't open, and we were constantly on the move. By 2007, I was back on track and enjoying spin classes and lifting weights on my own.  Spinning was motivating and fun for me, so I got certified and started teaching!  I was also introduced to P90X to really kick it up the intensity.  I use a free program on my iphone called “Lose It” to track my calories, exercise and goals.  To this day, I still track my calories; however, I allow myself “wiggle room” to enjoy things in moderation. Currently I have lost and kept off 40lbs since I got married but every day is a challenge. As I always say, "it is a work in progress."

I have 2 beautiful and healthy children. My daughter is 11, going into 6th grade and my son is 8, going into 3rd grade. We are a very active and athletic family along with our 3 year-old English Springer Spaniel. I encourage my children to stay active in sports and to play outside as much as possible with their friends.  With computers, Wii, Xbox, game boys and phones, kids need to get outside and play and stimulate their bodies.  My generation used to play outside until it was dark and didn’t want to come in!  We would swim, play games, ride bikes, etc.  Kids need to be reminded that being active is fun and to fuel their bodies with good stuff.  We, as parents, are the role models.  Parents are the ones going to the grocery store.  Kids aren’t driving to the fast food restaurants to get meals.  Make it fun for your kids.  My kids use a free iphone app called Fooducate, where they can scan items and grades the item they are eating and offers healthier choices.  They have actually found new foods that they want to try out.

My advice for other moms out there would be to have a heart to heart talk with yourself.  Life happens.  Get in touch with what you want your body to look and feel like.  Get as detailed as possible.  Then, make a firm commitment to do what you know needs to be done.  Enjoy the journey and do not let anything or anyone (including YOU) stand in your way. You can do this. You are worth the effort and you have what it takes to get the job done.  Ask me how! 

In addition to doing Beach body workouts and teaching spinning, I enjoy reading, traveling, relaxing by the pool and spending time with family and friends.

*You can contact Michele at [email protected] for more information on her fitness journey.