A few weeks ago I was having a really rough week. The stress from challenging classes that are outside of my comfort zone coupled with dealing with friendships had gone south were dragging me down. Two great friends (K.K. and J.U.) both gave me pep talks, but nothing was improving my mood. That weekend I decided to set up a couple of workouts with friends to put all my boxing gear to use.
Last week I was in a much better mood- smiling all day, wanting to be social- and the only thing that changed, was the boxing.
In Chicago I did boxing once or twice a week for the last three years. It was a great workout plus a great way to relieve stress by hitting things. On top of that it was a social activity. The group of us would get our workout in while chatting about our week. I didn’t realize how much I was missing all that until this past week.
So, to keep things going I have sent out a calendar for fellow Darden ladies to sign up for workout times with me. The response has been awesome. I am getting to connect with people in a completely new way. Boxing has also given me my confidence back. When working out, I am in charge and teaching others how to do something I love. The best compliment was when the person I did my first workout with wanted to box again. Now I am even thinking about how to turn this into something more in my future (could a be a trainer? own a gym? yes I am copying J.G. but I’m sure she won’t mind).
So next time you see the girl in North Grounds with the pink gloves- it’s probably me

I am soooo excited that you will be whipping my butt into shape this quarter! I was sore for days after the last round.