Member Stories: Margaret Zitzer "I always joked about losing my baby fat"

We’re extremely proud of our members. Over the years their work out agendas and sporting endeavors serve as healthy examples of how it feels to be Elite, and how exercise not only adds years to your life, but life to your years! Today we’d like to highlight another member’s accomplishments:

I have struggled with excess weight my whole life. And it’s been a long struggle.

I celebrated my 50th birthday last October. My weight really ballooned after I had my children though. I always joked about not losing my “baby fat” after I had my babies. Well, my babies were no longer babies and I had to do something about my weight problem.

(Pregnant now? Don’t worry, you can safely maintain your exercise routine through pregnancy too!)

Two years ago, I had gastric bypass surgery to help me lose weight. The surgery is just one tool in losing weight, however. I still have to eat the right foods and exercise. I started exercising by just walking and then joined Elite.

I started out slowly by riding a recumbent bike and using the resistance machines. My son and I love to swim and enjoy the outdoor pool at Mequon.

I also joined Jane Zien’s Zumba classes on Monday and Wednesday nights in Mequon and Sunday mornings at River Glen. I love to dance and Zumba just makes me happy! Jane is a super teacher and so motivational. I don’t have a workout buddy, but knowing that Jane looks forward to me being in class motivates me to go. She worries about me if I do miss. She is a challenging teacher and I am so happy to have found her.

Jane is also a runner, which I think has rubbed off on me. I am currently training for my first 5K run in September. Oh, by the way, to date, I’ve lost over 150 pounds!

Congratulations on your weight loss Margaret! You have done a great job diversifying your workouts and realizing that surgery is only one step to losing weight and keeping it off. We are so glad that Jane has been helpful in your journey. Elite strives to hire inspiring exercise instructors and trainers that help our members stay motivated and hold them accountable.

Share your own “elite” story of weight loss, conquering that first race, improving your tennis rating, or accomplishing some other goal! No story is too small, we are proud of ALL of our members!