I know there are a lot of people, especially women, that find obstacle course racing to be quite intimidating. The fear of not knowing if they will actually be able to complete the course and conquer all obstacles. That fear, holds many back and keeps them from doing what they are capable of and hinders them from reaching their possible full potential. Overcoming fear requires a decision, a conscious decision to move outside of your comfort zone.You can not grow without moving out of your comfort zone. My fear is not obstacles and races, those are just what I do, who I am. I do however have a fear, a very real fear. Some may find this funny, but I DO NOT do standing in front of groups. It gives me a feeling of anxiety blended with food poisoning. Now, if there is also talking involved while standing in front of the group, that is far worse. Usually what comes out of my mouth is more noise than actual words. For years this fear has held me back from doing what I know I am destined to do.

I have always wanted to teach group fitness classes, but in order to teach a group fitness class you must be in front of a group. So with my back up against a wall, earlier this month, I had to go out and get a paying job that worked with my hectic schedule. Not to mention that my schedule that will change completely when school gets out and I have two kids full time again. It is amazing what you are able to do when you come up against a wall in life just like in obstacle course racing. I believe that when a person becomes determined to do something (overcome a wall), so determined that nothing can stop them, nothing is impossible! I read somewhere that once you make a decision, the universe conspires to make it happen.

So I made a decision to overcome my fear. Off I go to the gym where my husband and I have been working out for a little over a year. It is a very small, country, family friendly gym. A real nice guy took over the gym in January and has been making great changes to the place. He had mentioned that he would like to start offering classes to his members in the space that was available upstairs. Long story short, I took a leap of faith and I am now teaching group fitness classes at Aubrey All About Fitness Center! I’ve even had a couple of students at some of my classes. It was a huge step outside of my comfort zone and I am still working on gaining some confidence. It is however forward progress and growth. I will continue to charge life, step outside my comfort zone, grow, explore, conquer and inspire!