Yesenia Cordova

I have recently been asked how I began my fitness journey and how I stay motivated. I thought it was a great opportunity to tell you all how I got to this point. Though you might not have the same beliefs as me, be open-minded and know that this is my truth. Last summer I went through a personal experience that knocked me off my feet. Through the midst of my sorrow I bumped into this amazing gift and it saved me. I quickly realized that everything I believed about myself was only a glimpse of the truth, so I got on my knees and whole-heartedly prayed for a change within me.

I started eating healthier because I wanted to take care of myself and from there the determination grew until I found myself with a gym membership and new workout gear. However, it wasn’t the clothes on my back or the food in my stomach that made the difference, it was the new found hope and love now living in my heart that made me get up each day with a purpose. It was knowing that I had not seen myself clearly in the past and that the pain I had endured would mean I would get to enjoy double the joy. It was admitting that I had been wrong but also forgiven; this was my second chance and I would not throw it away.

A one minute plank is hard and the stair master kicks my butt every time but you know what’s harder? Forgiving the unforgiveable, loving unconditionally and facing the harsh reality that the person I was before was so far off from who God intended me to be. I was mean, selfish and I thought I could control everything, so long as I planned it very well. How naïve I was; but grace saved me from all the lies I had believed for years and each day I just make an effort to be better than the person I was yesterday. Yes, I still fail, my cheat meal becomes a few cheat days and I lose patience in accepting others, but I am trying. Whether it’s in the gym or in the dining area at my Mom’s house with my family, I try every day and that is how I stay motivated. This fitness journey began when I asked to be changed from the inside first and before I knew it, I looked in the mirror and the old me was gone. My fitness journey is essentially a bonus to an answered prayer but I am unfinished, the best is yet to come. "Wake. Pray. Slay. In that order, everyday."