Employee Spotlight! - National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

The Month of May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, and it's a great time to spread the word about the benefits of getting active.

 

Today, we sat down with Ashley, Market Research Coordinator at Nova, to discuss how she stays fit and healthy.

Ashley - Fitness Guru :-)

Nova Med:    What sport/activity do you currently participate in? Since when? How often?

I currently participate in “Total Body Conditioning” at 24 Hour Fitness. I’ve been following the same instructor for four years now. Prior to this class, I was an avid runner since I was a teenager and put on lots of mileage. As a result, my knees began to bother me as the cartilage thinned out. I had to make some changes to my work-out regimen and it was tough. I cut back on the running and participated in other activities: Zumba, Spin class, Body Pump and Total Body Conditioning.  I’ve always excelled at cardiovascular activities: running, elliptical machine, spin class, etc. These days the flavor of the year for me is Total Body Conditioning. That could change at any time. It’s actually nice to participate in various activities and work different muscle groups. I still throw in a good run at Memorial Park from time to time. Above all, I absolutely love to attend class and see my teammates and instructors during the week. We keep each other motivated and get through a challenging class together. It’s an awesome feeling to be a part of the team.

Nova Med:   Do you follow a special diet?

No special diet. For the most part, I eat pretty healthy. I was raised eating a home cooked meal and no fast food. My mom is the best cook I know and has shown me a few of her tricks. I enjoy cooking as well. I’m a creature o f habit and things really haven’t changed. I don’t deprive myself of junk food as well. It’s nice to enjoy it from time to time and I don’t fret about it. It’s all about moderation.

Nova Med:     What is your biggest challenge, and what do you do to manage this challenge?

Biggest challenge- motivation. The hardest part of anything in my point of view is getting started. Once I begin something, I’m unstoppable. I manage this challenge by remaining positive and mentally strong. It takes discipline and I somehow muster up the strength to execute regardless of my mood.

Nova Med:      Do you have a saying or motto that you live your life by?

Live, Laugh and Love

Nova Med:      How many times in the last year have you been to see a physician, and why?


I saw a physician many times this past year only because I was “with child.” Otherwise, I would not have seen a physician. I’m very fortunate to be healthy and I’m extremely thankful for that. I don’t take it for granted.

Nova Med:    Anything else you’d like to share?


Balance is the key to life

Be sure to tune in next Friday as we feature another Nova Medical Centers employee in honor of National Physical Fitness and Sports Month!