The Health & Fitness Center at Washtenaw Community College can help you reach your fitness goals with our classes, services, and amenities. Find out how our facilities and community have made a difference for one of our dedicated members.
A Member Testimonial
On January 10, 2021, I joined the center to get back in shape as the nation was still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. When I first arrived, I only saw three people cleaning machines and one person working out. At that time, I had gained 20 more pounds, adding to my already large 280-pound frame. I started losing weight slowly through dieting and walking. My daily routine consisted of going to the center at 7 a.m. and walking one mile. Over time, I improved and was able to walk faster and cover more distance. Although losing weight was a slow process, it was working.
I enrolled in a trail hiking class, with several people being faster than me. Despite the trail being challenging, I didn’t give up.
The Power of Fitness and Friends
I started making friends at the center because I was there almost every day. I had done yoga 20 years earlier and decided to try it again. Making friends in the yoga class helped me stay on track. The people in the classes were very friendly and made me feel welcome. I still walked on the track to warm up before yoga class while talking to other members. One member told me, “Now that I am retired, I think of exercise as my new job.” This comment stuck with me, and I decided to make it my motto. In three years, I went from weighing 300 pounds to 185 pounds. At this point, I was able to get up and down from the floor with greater ease.
My health has improved significantly since 2021, and I attribute this to the fitness community at the center. I really enjoy the community atmosphere, since it feels like we’re all in this together. When I started this journey, my goal was to build a routine that I could maintain long-term. Walking and yoga turned out to be a great fit for me. One of the most valuable things I learned from yoga is that it’s okay to modify movements to suit my own needs.
I am currently working with Sara Addington as my personal trainer. Sara and I have created routines that I can do by myself during busier days. We typically focus on slow exercises that don’t require a lot of weight, which I find to be challenging and effective for me.
I am very grateful for the center and all the staff, instructors, and friends I have made here. Thank you.
If you are looking for advice on your own fitness journey, you can contact our staff.
For more information, please call 734-975-9950 or visit the Member Services desk.
