“Put your headphones in, act like you know what you’re doing, and no one will question it.” That’s what Shelley (I just call her Mom) told me when I wanted to start using the weight room. I had been working out with her for a few years (mostly cardio and light weights), but I was ready for a new challenge. So she put me on a 14 week weight training program back in December of 2015, and since then I have gained about 10 pounds of muscle and noticed a huge shift in my strength and confidence in the weight room. She taught me to lift heavy things till my muscles got tired, and then do a few more reps just to show them who’s boss.

It’s easy for ladies to fall into the temptation of body comparison, especially at my age, and that is something my mom has always fought against. She teaches that fitness comes in many different forms, and you just have to find your version of healthy and confident. So shoutout to the woman that has always pushed me to new limits and encouraged physical and spiritual strength.

– Sidney