Jackie, you’ve had an incredible transformation in taking control of your health. When did your wellness journey begin and what motivated you to start?
My wellness journey began July 30, 2012 after attending a family reunion on July 4, 2012. My oldest brother, his wife, and I were talking about weight loss and exercise. My brother and sister-in-law told me about a boot camp that their son was enrolled in at that time. He lost about 14 pounds in a month. She showed me the video. We (my brother, sister-in-law and myself) decided we would attend the next session which would start on July 30.
I was so excited because this was the push and motivation I needed to restart my wellness journey after gaining 100 pounds following baby number two. At that time, baby number two was 5 years old, and I had the baby fat mentality (this weight was because of the baby). In actuality, the weight gain was because I stopped exercising and started eating more. Prior to having children, I was a fitness fanatic as I am now. I continued to exercise while pregnant with baby number one and post pregnancy; but life (school/work/children) took precedent in 2006 and I lost myself.
Over those 6 years I would join programs and exercise but I was never consistent because I wasn’t in the right frame of mind. However, on July 4, 2012 I had grown tired of my excuses and decided one final time I am going to defeat this unhealthy lifestyle. I attended that particular boot camp for 10 weeks, and lost 10 pounds 6 inches. I eventually found the fitness plan that worked for me, a plan that I could continue myself and that would keep me consistent. Over the years I have tried many fitness plans but running is my thing.
I’ve been following you on Facebook and Instagram since we met through Black Girls Run in Jackson, Mississippi. I love the daily photos you post of your workouts. Describe a typical week in terms of workouts and training?
In the mornings, I’ll run 4 to 10 miles daily depending on my work schedule and I’ll log between 1½ to 2 hours of gym time 3 days per week for weight lifting and cross-training. Saturdays are typically reserved for long runs, and depending on my training schedule that involves 10 to 20+ miles. Occasionally, I’ll have to run in the afternoon instead of the morning if my work schedule is changed.
Jackie, you are my “shero.” I’m curious, how many half and full marathons have you completed?
I have completed 10 marathons, 12 half marathons and several 10K’s/5K’s
What advice would you give someone looking to become more physically active?
My advice is to evaluate your goals, and find the fitness activity that fits you. This may take trying several different activities to figure out. Also, filter out the negative thoughts and think positive. Remember you are never too old to pursue goals and never give up. If you fail today, start over tomorrow. Even for me I have days that I struggle but I evaluate the situation and fix it the next day. The unhealthy Jackie is gone!