Social Workout

Snapshot

Laura Carries a Yoga Mat in Her Suitcase and Remembers When Running Felt Like Soaring

Laura!

We ask your fellow strivers in fitness personal questions, they boldly answer. Today's snapshot: Laura, aka vajardin.

• What would you do (fitness-wise) if you had all the time and ability in the world? Time is not an issue for me, but ability certainly is. I wish I could run. Every once in a while when I am in top shape I attempt it, but it always kills my knees and then I am injured and cannot do any exercise. I remember when I was younger and I used to run and it felt like I was soaring. I would love to experience that again
• What's your secret (fitness-related) sin? My lips are sealed.
• What's your go-to workout? Kathy Smith's "Functionally Fit" video is an interval aerobics workout that is only 40 minutes long, as opposed to most of my other aerobics videos that are closer to an hour. When I do it, I feel like I have done just as much as a longer workout because of the interval aspect. Plus, there are not any movements I cannot do as a result of my various ailments. Getting old sucks. 
• What's your number one workout spot? If you mean number one in terms of frequency, it would be in my den in front of the TV because I usually do video workouts these days. But, I would much rather be outside. 
• What's the healthiest thing you eat? I think the healthiest thing I eat is a variety of foods. I do not believe there is one perfect food, but instead I believe in the adage, "everything in moderation." I travel frequently and always try to sample the foods in other places, especially if they are different from what I am accustomed to eating. 
• What do you wear to the gym? I no longer go to a gym unless you count a fitness room in a hotel. The gym I went to was filthy so I haven't been back in about five years. At home or in a hotel fitness room, I wear long stretchy pants and a close fitting top. At home I go with no bra, but in a hotel I do wear one. 
• What's the best thing in your gym bag? Well, since I do not go to a gym, I do not use my gym bag anymore. But, in my roll-aboard suitcase is a yoga mat that I take with me whenever I travel domestically. It is always a great thing to have, provided I get a room with enough floor space to use it. 
• What are you just never going to try? I like to think that I have an open mind and will try most things, but so-called miracle-cures do not usually interest me. 
• What superhero (real life or fictional) most inspires you? My sister is a superhero to me. Her daughter was born with a terminal illness that requires daily therapy. It takes up much of my sister's life and money caring for her daughter, but she keeps a positive can-do attitude and is making sure her daughter lives life to the fullest just like any other girl. I admire and I am inspired by my sister's steadfastness and determination to do what needs to be done without ever playing the pity card.