Motivation, it can be tough to find each and every day when you are heading to the gym for a workout. But for many people, finding the time to work out, helps to keep them healthy both in mind and body. Krista Payne is just one such example.

Krista joined the YMCA of the Northwoods in 2006. Like many folks she says she joined the Y in hopes of losing weight, but she calls her use of the facility sporadic at best. “My usage was intermittent at first. I would go to the Y when enrolled in classes, but if I wasn’t in a class then my visits became less frequent. That all changed when the Y held its first Fit for Life program,” Krista says.

The Fit for Life program could be compared to the hit TV show The Biggest Loser. Participants work out together but also get educational information on nutrition, goal setting, power of mind and many other lifestyle change topics. Krista participated in the very first Fit for Life in 2008. Since then 69 participants have lost a total of 1,279 pounds in the program. For Krista, she says the program was just the kick she needed to make her good health a priority, “Fit for Life was a turning point in my relationship with the YMCA. The bonds I formed with both participants and the staff at Y have been unbreakable. I am still friends with many of the people from the first year of that program.”

Krista was able to take advantage of the scholarship opportunities available through the Y’s Annual Support Campaign (ASC) to participate in Fit for Life. Each year volunteers at the Y set out to raise funds for the ASC to help fund several scholarship opportunities for Y and community members. Through talking with staff members she was able to get all of her questions answered regarding not only the program but how she might qualify to participate at a reduced cost. The Y’s mission is to be a community based organization, open to all in the community, and through scholarship programs people are able to take advantage of extra programs and opportunities that might not have been available otherwise.

For Krista sharing her story was an opportunity to help showcase not only a great program at the Y, Fit for Life, but also how working out and healthy living can and should be an important part of your life. She says her weight loss journey over the last two years has helped to shape the person she is now. “My attitude towards life has completely changed. I feel I am genuinely more positive in all facets; exercise has a huge impact on that positive attitude. No matter how big or small the workout, it all counts!” she says.

In addition to being a member and utilizing the services and programs at the Y, Krista says she also really believes in the mission of the organization, which includes social responsibility, youth development and promoting healthy living not just with physical exercise but also emotional and social benefits. “Getting involved gives a person the chance to make friends, become more self-aware and push to new levels. Being able to do something you never thought you could do is one of the greatest feelings in life,” says Krista.

If you are interested in learning more about the Y, scholarship opportunities that are available, or do donate to the Annual Support Campaign, call the Y at 715.362.9622 or stop by the facility.