Prompting the beginning of her weight loss journey, a trip to the doctor’s office was an ‘eye-opener’ for Delta Wellness Center gym member Lynn Bailey. In October 2021, Bailey visited a cardiovascular specialist’s office to ensure there weren’t any blood clots or other complications as she recovered from a leg injury. While waiting, Bailey noticed patients’ conditions in the waiting room, such as swelling, oxygen tanks, and bags of medicine. Then and there, Bailey knew she had to make changes to improve her health.
“At 66, I took a look at that, and I thought, what if I’m not healing because of the blood clot, and this is how I’m going to look in 6 months if I don’t do something,” Bailey said.
Bailey took action by making lifestyle changes that would result in her losing 44 pounds in 6 months. One of those changes was taking advantage of her Delta Wellness Center membership. Once Bailey’s injury healed with no complications, she began her weight loss journey in January 2022.
“ I came to the gym and just started figuring out what I could do,” Bailey said.
Bailey began by walking on the inside track at DWC. Eventually, she would incorporate 1 lb weights and arm movements into her walking routine. Bailey’s workout includes 14 laps which are ¾ mile. Bailey added 15 minutes to 30 minutes of a workout video for cardio to her workout after noticing the multipurpose room at DWC was available. Bailey appreciates the DWC staff for allowing her to use the space for her exercise videos.
“The people that work here were really helpful,” Bailey said. “They are really good about helping me in the multipurpose room. They let me go in and find an exercise program I like, so I come at least four days a week.”
Bailey also added doing a mile on the recumbent elliptical bike at least four times a week to her workout. Bailey appreciates the safe space and convenience the DWC provides for her fitness journey.
“I can come any time of the day,” Bailey said. “ I don’t have to worry about walking in the neighborhood with dogs, potholes, and other distractions. I know that I am not judged here.”
Bailey advises anyone starting their fitness journey to focus on progress, not perfection.
“A lot of it comes from within,” Bailey said. “You have to be proud of the progress you make.”
The DWC offers many resources to contribute to an individual’s progress, such as a nutritionist, instructional kitchen, aerobics room, yoga, Zumba, strength training, cardio, free weights, indoor track, and exercise programs.
“It’s what works for you,” Bailey said. “It’s all here, and it’s in Leland.”