Staying fit
Jane Allen says exercise keeps her sound physically, mentally
On the days she can’t work out, Jane Allen feels like something is missing.
A good workout just makes her feel better, both physically and mentally.
“I feel so much better. I really miss it, if I can’t come for some reason,” Allen said.
Allen works out four or five days a week at Anytime Fitness on Trinity Boulevard. She was named member of the month for January.
“Jane is the perfect example of an individual that places their health and well-being first in life. It is obviously her lifestyle and she enjoys it,” a staff member wrote on the Anytime Fitness Facebook page.
“We love Jane and the joy she brings to our gym family, as well as the example she sets for us all,” the post said.
Allen, 69, has worked out at gyms at different times in her life, but said she has really “stuck with it” this time.
She does the treadmill most days and likes the weights also.
“I’m not doing it to build muscle. I just want to stay toned and in good health,” she said.
Allen lost her husband, Mike, to lung cancer in 2009. They had been married 42 years. Their adventures together included living in Germany for a while through Mike’s career with Red River Army Depot.
In 2010, Allen was diagnosed with breast cancer, but she was able to beat it.
To stay in shape, she started walking on her neighbor’s treadmill in a detached garage. But it was too hot in the summer to work out in a garage, so she joined Anytime Fitness
“I’ve always been active. I’ve always walked a lot and skied,” she said.
She enjoys the social aspect of the gym.
“I like the camaraderie. I have gotten to know people here and socializing is so important, especially when you live alone.”
The following are questions to ask yourself before finding a gym, according to Self Magazine:
1. Location. What’s convenient to your home or office.
2. When do you like to work out?
3. Is group fitness a priority?
4. What is the class cancellation policy?
5. What type of equipment do you like to use?
6. Do you want community or anonymity?
7. Will you be getting ready at the gym?
8. What is your budget?
9. Can you get a trial membership?
10. What is your ultimate fitness goal?