I have enjoyed each topic discussed in this course because they have all shared insight and light on the many topics and issues that women face. But I would have to say that the topic discussed in this class that has had the most impact on my life would have to be the info discussed in chapter 9, which discusses nutrition, exercise, and weight management. All three of these issues have a great impact on women including myself. Body image, weight, and staying fit are all three issues that I can relate to on a very personal level. This chapter has shared some great information on how to turn those negatives in my life and make them into positives. After reading on this chapter I have learned which foods to stay away from and which foods I should eat more of, tips on working out and which types of exercise that I should incorporate into my weekly work out regimen, ways to help reduce my risk of weight gain, and how to lose weight. Since reading this chapter one of the new positive behaviors that I have incorporated in order to eat healthier is make a grocery list, and write down what I eat, and so far I have been able to limit my salt intake, reduce the amount of sugary drinks I have a week, and I eat out less often. I also try and eat more vegetables with lunch and dinner. I already eat plenty of fruit because I love fruit! Even though during the semester I began working out more regularly, I found out how important stretching, warming up, and cooling down is in a work out. Now I warm up by walking or jogging for about 5 minutes, then stretch, then exercise for 45 minutes, and use the last five to ten minutes of my workout to cool down before I stretch again afterwards. Lately, walking, jogging, and the elliptical machine have been my best friends. I do however need to incorporate some strength training into my work out so that I can develop more tone and definition. Lastly, I have been able to manage my weight through proper diet, and exercise. Since then my confidence in myself has gone way up, and I feel great which is more than I could ever ask for. Overall, I have been inspired and personally impacted from this particular chapter. There is no excuse from me to not be able to maintain adequate health, as well as maintain these changes. I am very fortunate to be able to have access to this information.
-Brittany LeBron
