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Debbie's Story:

Halfway through this competition, I decided to let up on my obsession with numbers and goals.  This was not a decision I took lightly, as I am usually very goal-driven – often to the point of excess.  I am also a bit of a perfectionist and somewhat anal.  Actually, it’s more than “a bit” and more than “somewhat,” if I’m being totally honest.  Opting to let go of some of these tendencies was no easy feat.  In fact, it was downright difficult!  But, I wanted to try something different, a new approach, so I made the conscious choice to focus my energy on other types of “measurements.”  As a result, I became more aware of how I felt, both physically and mentally. And along the way, I realized that I derive the most joy from the process, for it is in the “doing” that I experience the most growth.

As the weeks went on, I began to notice that I had more energy after starting my day with the Bar Method.  I felt ready to take on my workload. And furthermore, I approached it with a positive attitude and an uplifted mood, with the feeling that I was able to tackle any challenge that came my way.  I also started to fit into those tight jeans of mine better – without having to hold my tummy in!  And I noted that the strength and flexibility I acquired in the process transferred to my other activities, such as running, cycling and hiking, especially on the hills and steep inclines. 

I was able to perform these activities better, not only because of my increased strength, but also because I was breathing more effectively – a skill I had learned from class.  Additionally, I began to pay attention to my posture more, as I would hear Bev’s and Maika’s voices in my head at various times of the day telling me to put my shoulders down, pinch them together and open up my chest.  I was more aware of how I moved, how I sat and the manner in which I presented myself to others.  Standing up just a little straighter made me feel taller – something all short women aspire to!  And it gave my self-esteem a good boost, too.

I have so much more confidence in my body and its abilities and I am willing to push myself to its fullest extent.  I welcome the challenge now, whereas before, I often feared it and made excuses to avoid really going to the limit.  I think it was because I didn’t want to fail (there’s that perfectionist tendency rearing its ugly head!), but now I realize that I can’t fail as long as I try my best.  I may not have the straightest leg, the lowest push-up or a perfect pretzel, but that’s ok with me. 

I am satisfied with my best attempt, whatever that might be on any particular day.  Instead of bemoaning what I can’t do, I have learned to accept all the things I can do, both in and out of class.  I take pride in what I can do and accept that I am not a perfect being.  Perfection is no longer the end-all, be-all that it has been for me in the past.  I have learned to embrace my imperfect, yet strong, body and maybe, just maybe, I’m on my way to loving it. 

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