Last week, I took a moment to catch up with a dear friend and fellow Venus, Pam. She had a hell of a 2017, but has overcome a horrendous accident in spectacular fashion and her story is worth sharing…
Interview with Pam
(Liss) Pam, you placed in VT12 in December of 2014. Looking back, what did Venus teach you that has stuck with you?
(Pam) Venus taught me that lifting weights is the only thing that will change the shape of your body. I was a runner/instructor for years but didn’t make time to lift myself. Venus started my love affair with weights and at age 50 I can say my arms/shoulders have never looked better or been stronger.
The most important thing Venus/lifting did was possibly save my life. I was hit by a car while running and because I am very fit and strong, I didn’t break any bones. I literally walked away from the accident only missing some teeth but that is it.
(Liss) What has life been like since 2014?
(Pam) My life since 2014 has been a roller coaster! It’s had many ups and downs. I was just a soccer mom who coached fitness classes and was a personal trainer until Dec 2016. That’s when my accident occurred. I was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. I had to stop working because I had so many surgeries to go through. But, I was able to start a website-www.theperfectbalance.
(Liss) What workouts are you doing these days?
(Pam) I lift 3-4 days a week, run 2-3 days a week and try to get one yoga class in per week. My 51st bday is in April and as a present to myself, I hired a trainer to get me in the best shape possible. Last year I had to take so many breaks from working out. Now all the surgeries are over and I want to see some great changes!
(Liss) What is your nutrition like now?
(Pam) My nutrition now is still on point. I know what keeps me full and how best to fuel my body. I know I have to get enough protein to fuel my muscles, lots of veggies, and water as well as enough healthy fats. I still use MFP daily to stay on top of things.
(Liss) What is the hardest thing about maintenance?
(Pam) The hardest thing about maintenance is that it’s all about the choices. That’s the bottom line. Life will always throw you curveballs, there will always be struggles and good times. You have to learn to eat for function and not eat your emotions. It’s so easy to get carried away and shove your feelings down with food but it never solves whatever problem is in front of you. It’s a daily choice and you’re the only one to make it.
(Liss) How do you stick to being fit?
(Pam) I’ve always loved exercise. I grew up with 2 big brothers who taught me every sport possible. I started running when I was 11 and haven’t stopped. Fitness has always been my stress relief and happy place. My body and mind are happier when I move my body. I plan my days around when I will get my workout in- it’s a priority every single day.
(Liss) Wisdom from one Venus to another, what is yours?
(Pam) Don’t ever stop lifting weights and staying on top of your food. We lose muscle mass every decade and lifting can prevent that. Our muscles protect our bones. Stay in control of your life, your workouts, your food. Know that you CAN do anything you put your mind to!
…. Wow huh? Pam is one amazing lady! She was also recently featured on Fit Radio, you can check out her story here as well 🙂
Check out Pam’s new books HERE
Check out Pam’s website HERE
Best,
Coach Liss
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