Eating all that trail mix as a kid paid off

By: Robert Stedman

    It's safe to say, I grew up in a house with someone who could be classified as a health nut! My mom, Jackie, taught a very popular aerobics class for some huge number of years. This women was a miracle! What wasn't so miraculous was how we three siblings were tossed into her physical/eat-right mix. Instead of drooling over Hershey bar pie, we had to weep over angel-food cake with strawberries--yum, yum! Friends were stuffing down Frito-Lay, while we were nibbling on trail mix. And you can forget about Cokes! I believe we were the first family to invest in bottled water--seriously!

    As I've entered adulthood, it's mind boggling how these healthy ways have rubbed off. I find myself at the supermarket getting fat cut off roast and ground into hamburger meat. I even read labels and plan on getting a water cooler in my new home. Can you believe that--what have I become?

    Until recently, it's been fairly difficult to find a workout program that can retain my dedication. Never been a big fan of jogging and you can hang it up if you think I'm gonna take aerobics. My body wasn't meant to maneuver that way! Getting to the point--if you like music, bike ridding and staying in shape, I've got the class for you. It's called spinning and these classes are offered all over the place. If your "gotta look good for summer" routine is shabby, I strongly suggest you try this!

    First and most important, don't think you're gonna bump on in the class and dominate. Your goal is to keep a pace somewhere between Lance Armstrong and the paper boy! Don't get frustrated with the "la de da" riders because you can bet someone near you is seriously sucking wind! In the beginning, I was one of those "gaspers" who spent half the class slobbering all over my water bottle. But, you adapt quickly and soon discover a comfortable speed. The exercise flies by and you walk (very cautiously) out energized and confident. Fast results will soon draw compliments from all the family, friends and work buddies.

    I guess I should thank that healthy mother of mine. Even though, it was never a thrill to roll out of bed and find 20 enormous vitamins along side a glass of water, her intentions were true. Nothing like years of oatmeal and nonfat butter on wheat to start the morning. With that said, I will always appreciate the devotion in keeping her son fit. Although my taste buds may be tainted, I'm too lucky to have someone who cares so much! THANKS!