About six months ago, Carrie sat down and set goals for an upcoming milestone: turning 30 years old. She envisions a life in Florida, owning a cool smoothie store, being fit and taking leisurely strolls on the beach during moonlight nights. For Carrie, who will turn 30 in 2005, it’s all about reinventing herself – and she’s making great progress toward that goal as well as a world of limitless opportunity. 

“The first step I had to take toward my goals was to focus on my fitness,” said Carrie.  “I was really tired all the time and didn’t have a lot of energy. I had to consciously decide to get involved in a healthy, fit environment where I felt comfortable.  This was not an overnight decision; in fact, it took me about 6 months to move from the couch into the Studio.” 

Once she made the commitment, however, Carrie was hooked.  “I started taking general group fitness classes, one at a time. I promised myself I would take it slow.  I did – and each time I went to the Studio, I did a little more. The results have been great – I feel more alert, have more energy and can see myself respond to the exercise and movement.” 

Other people have noticed that Carrie has improved energy, too.  “Every so often – usually at random moments – people come up to me and say, ‘You’re really looking good!’” smiled Carrie.  “I don’t always see it in myself.  It motivates me to know that not only do I feel better, but people are noticing that I’m improving too!”

When asked for words of wisdom to stay on the fitness track, Carrie reflected on her experiences at the Studio.  “Try everything – even if you think you’re going to hate it,” she advised.  “I’ve taken almost every general fitness class offered. Some of the classes I thought I would hate the most have turned out to be my favorite.”  She added, “If you really get frustrated, promise yourself to keep going at least five times before you give up.  Sometimes it takes that long to get the hang of things and to start realizing the benefits.”

Rose Bates, a 48-year old instructor at Roxanne’s who is still going strong, is one of Carrie’s role models.  “I look at Rose and see how fit she is and how much she really loves motivating people,” Carrie remarked. “She’s such an inspiration to me. I saw a picture where Rose was quite heavy.  I look at her today and she’s a little ball of energy. She is the picture of what I want to be – fit and energetic!” 

Carrie – you’re well on your way!!!  Keep up the great work – and know that you are also an inspiration to us all! 

“Try everything – even if you think you’re going to hate it ... promise yourself to keep going at least five times before you give up"