Transforming Herself & Rockford

Even though I’m on television as a 23 News anchor, my fitness story is likely familiar to my fellow Stateline residents.

My New Year’s Resolution was the same every year: Lose weight and get fit. I would hit the treadmill a few times a week and stock my fridge full of fresh produce, only to watch it spoil the second week of January as a metaphor for my fitness resolve. I’d fall back into my old habits, avoiding stairs and searching for the closest parking spot when I’d in subsequent months.

It’s a frustration many of us share. While a lot of our gym shoes are tucked away in the back of our closets, the saying, “Out of sight, out of mind,” just doesn’t seem to hold true when we look at our midsections, and a national magazine is calling our city obese. It’s a challenge that Rockford families face together as we try to prove that strength-in-numbers can improve these sobering statistics.

As a TV personality, I’m often asked if I feel increased pressure to stay in shape due to TV cameras capturing my daily appearance. However, I think affirmation is something women in every profession face. Don’t get me wrong, a high-definition camera lens is sure to make anyone slightly self-conscious, to say the least. But when it comes to exercising and eating healthy, it’s much like many other things in life: It’s what’s on the inside that counts. That mission is one of the reasons I’m excited WIFR is partnering with FitMe Wellness, a locally owned health and wellness club committed to making sure people across the Stateline are not only celebrating more birthdays, but are comfortable in their own bodies. Each Monday on 23 News at 5pm, I talk with FitMe’s group of health and wellness experts about small changes we can make to our diets and exercise regimens that will have a major impact on our future.