One thing I’ve learned over the past few years is that we are capable of so much more than we think!
Angelica Hahn
Yes, You Can!
Have you ever realized how easy it is to box yourself in? Take a second and think about all the times you have told yourself that you ‘can’t’ do something. Unfortunately, that is usually our first response, especially to something new. In spite of that, one thing I’ve learned over the past few years is that we are capable of so much more than we think!
Growing up with a background predominantly in dance performance, I always limited myself to exercise only in my dance classes. I never thought dancers exercised outside of that, let alone lift weights! Surprisingly, everything changed when I cheered professionally as a New York Jets Flight Crew Cheerleader. Weight training in our team practices and incorporating it into my daily routine made such a difference in my body and dance technique. I became stronger and sharper in my movements, saw an increase in stamina and had better core stability. I even found myself conquering exercises and routines that I once struggled with.
Hit the Weights
Scheduling weekly weight training sessions at the gym and pushing myself past my comfort zone was the best decision I ever made for my health and my body. I have accomplished so many things that I thought I could never do. There was a time when even the thought of running a mile was such a crazy thing. I used to dread the days at Flight Crew practice when our coach would tell us to do four laps around the track. At the time, one mile seemed like forever! It was extremely hard the first few times, but I began to make steady progress, and so it motivated me to run on my own time. I eventually made it to two miles, then quickly to three miles, and amazingly enough, one day I pushed myself to run six miles! The feeling I had after completing that was so fulfilling. It made me realize how much I really am capable of if I give myself a chance!
So break open that box you have put yourself in, and be willing to try new things! Jump into that kickboxing class that you have still yet to try or take that spin class that you always find an excuse not to attend. If you have never tried weight training schedule a session with a personal trainer and approach it with an open mind. You will be surprised how your body will react to having different forms of exercise in your regimen.
Mix It Up!
Remember, it takes a little time to adjust to change, but variety is always best! I find myself switching up my routine constantly. Some weeks I focus mainly on cardio and other weeks I hone in on the weights with maybe a dance class or two in between. I just love keeping it fresh and trying new things! I cannot begin to tell you how great I feel and the increase in strength and energy that has taken place. If I’m talking to you, it is time to shake things up! Don’t wait another minute. Each day is a gift and a new opportunity to be a better version of YOU!
About the Author
Angelica Hahn
Angelica Hahn is an AFAA Certified Personal Trainer, as well as a certified instructor in Group Exercise, Cycle, and Zumba. Angelica brings over a decade of experience as a dance teacher and choreographer and has also danced professionally as a New York Jets Flight Crew Cheerleader.