I've always enjoyed working out. I rowed in college and I have a brown belt in Tang Soo Do and a green belt in Tae Kwon Do. I used to run 3 miles four days a week and lift four days a week. Then I gained a ton of weight with my third pregnancy and after he was born, the weight just kept coming. In November of 2012, when I reached 266 pounds, I decided that something had to change. I did great for awhile, then slipped back into my old ways, so that in March of 2013, I was almost back to my starting weight. Pitiful. I recommitted myself after a treacherous 3-day hike, and immediately started running, dieting and lifting at home. I lost 50 pounds in four months.

I love working out because I love proving to myself daily that I can do hard things. I love to push and challenge myself. I love to sweat; it makes me feel good and productive. I love the feeling of power and strength that comes from working your body hard. I also love the health benefits that come from working out regularly and eating healthy.