Sonya Jennings is Methodist Health: Gaining momentum.

By Sonya Jennings

Sonya is an administrative assistant in Surgery and Recovery at Methodist Mansfield Medical Center. After caring for a family of five, Sonya’s ready for a new challenge: exercising to improve her core strength and making better food choices. Sonya’s goal is to now learn how to take care of herself.

1. You’re in your second month of I am Methodist Health. Congratulations! In general, how’s it going?

It is going very well. Beth Leermakers is my health coach and we meet weekly. I am working out at the gym three or four days a week and have met with my personal trainer three times so far. I am walking at the park one or two times a week. This is a vast improvement! Prior to this program, I had no activity whatsoever. I feel happier overall — although I am a tad sore. Must be the over-50 bones!

2. What change or changes have you been able to make? Do you like the changes you are making?

First of all, I have concentrated on becoming more active by taking advantage of the discounted rates for Methodist Mansfield employees at the Anytime Fitness gym. Secondly, I have been tobacco-free for three months, and I do not drink sodas during the week at all. I have added breakfast to my day and am making better food choices.

3. Do you have any progress updates you’d like to share with your fans?

As far as weight loss, I’m not sure. I definitely feel better and have an added bounce to my step.

4. What’s been the biggest lesson you’ve learned the first month?

The old saying of exercising makes you feel better inside and out and gives you more energy is definitely true.

5. In January, I felt like I was really starting to make progress when I was going further on the treadmill and at a higher speed. Each time was getting easier. I know if I stick it out, I will get stronger and be more fit.