Push It

Called my aunt tonight and announced myself by first name but no one in my family calls me by my first name unless they are doing it for emphasis, teasing or trying to get my attention.

What have you been doing?, my aunt wanted to know. I explained that I had just gotten back from a cardio class. She, of course, suggested that it was probably time for me to hit the relax button since I was having trouble with my name.

Kate was in rare form. I don't know if she was Salt or Pepa put she was pushing us big time. I felt like she threw everything in her arsenal at us: fast feet, lateral and tire turns, jumping jacks, planks and push ups on the step plus shuffles. Kate was belting out calls like a military officer.

Back straight. Head above the heart. Tuck those abs in. Go hard. Push it.

After one cardio set, we went into squats. Squats are kind of perfect for placing your hands right at your heart and praying that you will survive the hour.

Kate's wisdom for tonight:

All of your movements are strong (travel farther, get lower)... You get out of your workout what you put into it.

The class was packed and I didn't hesitate to square off with the mirror. I look leaner so I'm going to ignore the number on the you know what...

What's your most memorable workout or toughest event that you participated in? Did you push yourself and endure? When you're working yourself out, are you able to look yourself in the mirror and say that you are pushing it?