A nudge toward fi tness

For some, the pandemic provided greater fi tness motivation than traditional jump-starters such as New Year’s and birthdays

by CHRIS BURRITT

NW GUILFORD/NW GREENSBORO – For Angela Eberly, the easing of COVID-19 restrictions coincided with a personal milestone.

As the Stokesdale resident approached her 50th birthday, she resolved to get serious about exercise and nutrition. For years, she had concentrated on her two children, her work and caring for her mother. The pandemic helped her shift her focus.

“COVID made people realize how short time really is,” Eberly said in a recent interview. “I’m trying to make these changes now. I’m tired of putting it off.”

For some, emerging from the pandemic has provided greater motivation than resolutions tied to the start of a new year or birthdays.

“I definitely think there’s more longevity with the easing of restrictions related to COVID,” said Jen Vocke, a personal trainer and wellness coach for the Fitquest program at Spears Family YMCA in northwest Greensboro.

“In January, everybody wants to lose weight,” Vocke said in a recent interview. “During COVID, people realized the lack of movement and isolation took a toll on their health. It’s been inspiring to see new people who’ve not worked out in years or have never worked out.”

The pandemic provided the backdrop for the unfolding of stories such as Eberly’s. Her mother, who suffered from dementia, died earlier this month. Two years of care took its toll on Eberly and her father.

“That is not how I want to end up in my mid-70s,” she said. “I want to be spry and healthy.”

As the virus claimed lives, many people were motivated to improve their health, fitness trainers confirmed. In recent months, people have

Photo courtesy of Spears Family YMCA Easing of COVID-19 restrictions motivated Bill Gibson to return to Spears Family YMCA, where he works out twice daily. continued onp. 23

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