I love me.

This Valentine's Day you probably made a special effort for your kids, spouse or friends. But what about you? To cherish one's own life is a love equally as important as love we have for our parents, children, partners, and friends. Developing good self-esteem seems to be a focus through the teenage years, but being over 50 doesn't make anyone immune from the pit falls of not taking the time to appreciate our particular gifts and talents. As we get up in years some of those traits we've often looked to for a boost of self esteem -- whether in the workplace, in sports, or in our bodies -- begin to change, and it's easy to let low self-esteem creep back in. So this Valentine's Day show some love to that very important person in your life....YOU!

How can exercise can help bring back the love? Both the endorphins released through exercise and the improved muscle tone, cardiovascular health, and flexibility will have you feeling confident to face the world. See how taking the time to exercise is a way to honor yourself and to take care of the special person that you are.

Today, Valentine's Day, marks the first official day of my triathlon training for the 2010 triathlon in June with an Epic Races tri clinic at Whitmore Lake High School. I invite all of my students to think about adding some kind of "event" to their exercise life. Working towards a 5K, a triathlon, a charity ride, or any type of big day adds some excitement to the routine of working out and makes the exercise workouts part of a bigger goal. Pilates plus cardio is such a great combo for adding balance to your personal workouts.

Make a date with yourself to pursue some exercise that you love. Tell us about it here!


P.S. Thanks to Kate from Short and Sweets (http://www.etsy.com/shop/shortandsweets). The chocolate cookies came right on time and we ate them all immediately...delicious. Friends, check out Kate's website for yummy gluten-free sweets.

photo credits to janoid on flickr and Lisa of Women in Motion