Part One: “All is Full of Love…”

…to quote one of my favorite Bjork songs ever. This weekend was definitely a special one for me, emotionally and physically. Completely banged up and tired as I am while writing this entry, all I can do is smile. Yes, I might look crazy and creepy for smiling in an empty apartment. All alone. In the dark. While all is quiet. But, hey. No one’s around to judge me, and even if there were, would I care? Of course not.
Moving on.
Yesterday, I participated in the 2015 Citi Field Spartan Race with a new team comprised of friends, old and new. Although a member of New York Health and Racquet Club for several years, this was the first time I was in an event representing them, more specifically one of their best group fitness instructors, Cedric Dujon, as one of his Fit Warriors. Some of you may remember that I participated in my first Spartan Race last year–that was with a team of over 70 people. The Fit Warriors was a team of 14 feisty and fun-loving individuals who made this event even better than I could have imagined.

PhotoGrid_1431316969604_wmNot once was there an “every man for himself” mentality; it just felt natural that we should help each other through ever obstacle and finish as a team, rather than to be competitive against one another and leave teammates behind. The comradely spirit that flowed between us gave everyone hope, strength and confidence that we could all get across the finish line, no matter how daunting the obstacles were. In all my years, this was the first time I understood what it felt like to be on a real team. Even more impressive was the fact that Cedric was the last team member to cross the finish line — our team leader made sure no one was left behind, that we were all accounted for and in good condition and spirit. Not only is this man a physical specimen, he has a heart of gold. Even now as I type, my heart swells with respect and appreciation for Cedric’s good nature and ethic. The people he attracts are all genuinely good people: caring, generous, helpful and kind. If this isn’t a testament to his good soul, I don’t know what is.
My membership at New York Health and Racquet will end soon and I’ll be at another gym through corporate subsidy, however I will support Cedric Dujon, Cedric Dujon Fitness, and will remain one of his Fit Warriors, ready for action whenever duty calls. CYMERA_20150509_172646Stay tuned for part two of my “Love Fest” Weekend…!
The Vickylicious

I Want a Slice!

I rarely write rants, BUUUUT… Never have I ever walked out of a gym class, or any class for that matter, out of respect for the instructor. Today however, it could not be helped. I took the worst spin class I’ve ever taken in my life, and I’ve been spinning for over 10 years (I’m also certified, so I have experience on both sides of this coin). I understand everyone has their own teaching style, Yet and still: one’s inability to stop talking, horrendous music selection (by anyone’s standards), constantly cutting off the volume in order to hear one’ s voice, therefore not allowing anyone to get into any kind of “zone” whatsoever, makes for a horrible experience and denies the class of any potential energy. I tried to stay and ended up angry and annoyed. Unable to hide my irritation, I unclipped and hopped off the bike in mid-stride, apologizing to my friend–not the instructor–for not being able to stay. On top of that, I wasn’t the only one who left, so I know it wasn’t just me that was feeling this way. Re-certification is definitely in order. Too many people get a piece of the pie that don’t deserve it. And I’m a hungry mofo.CFS 2014