Health Matters Fitness

And So It Begins.....

2013-03-13T02:01:00.001-07:00

I remember when I first started as a personal trainer listening to my middle aged clients who were going through menopause and thinking, "Quit making excuses. It can't be that bad." Here I sit, 2:30am, wide awake! No it isn't from over thinking but frankly I am wide awake. For the past hour I have roamed from room to room trying to find something make me sleepy. Nope, nothing has worked. So now here I type - my blog all about my experience with menopause.

Exactly what is going on with menopause, I ask myself. I know I have heard people on TV talk about it, but they really aren't "saying" what is going on. Oh and then there is the Internet. That is enough to scare anyone with all the things one can read. So now what, I ask myself. I do know that I am going to be asking way more questions to all women who have and are going through it. It all may not happen to me, but being somewhat prepared may help lessen the blow when it happens.

I found this picture on the Internet and loved it. It made me actually laugh as now I see that it is true!

As I write this blog, I started to ask myself if I had to accept what was happening to me at this stage of my life. My answer is "hell no!" I will face this thing called menopause. How you may ask? Exercise! Weight training! Running! Food! And most importantly my regular favourite facials from GloSpa! This chick is going down fighting.

Guess what! Blogging may have been an answer to my insomnia. Time to grab some sleep before the morning arrives.

Happy Health Everyone!

The Holiday Hustle

2012-12-23T16:12:00.001-08:00

The final crunch is on and people are hustling about the get everything done for the holiday season. Kevin and I did this as well most years but this year we decided to escape the stress of the year.

What I have found myself doing now instead of shopping, baking, eating and stressing, we have slowed down to take care of ourselves mentally and physically and also to reflect on our past year and up coming year.

So far...this trip has been an amazing mental break I needed to get refocused.

I hope each person has the time to take two minutes for themselves to do the same.

Sheena Does Disney - Coast To Coast

2012-07-31T14:27:00.001-07:00

In January, 2012 I completed the Goofy Challenge which was a huge achievement and I am very proud of my accomplishment.

Disney who are amazing marketing people, have this additional medal awarded to those who run in Florida and California in the same calendar year. Being a sucker for the bling, I of course signed up.

On Sunday, September 2, 2012 I now completed the Disneyland Half Marathon which now completes my set of medals for the coast to coast challenge.

I am very fortunate to have run Disneyland with our dear friend Michele Pedersen, who was with my in Florida. I could have not have done this challenge without her and her awesome attitude!

The only other Disney races I now have left to do is:
Tinkerbell Half Marathon
Princess Half Marathon
Wine and Dine Half Marathon
Tower Of Terror 10k

They will have to wait as I think we may have a big special one coming up for our 50th birthday.

Team In Training - Spring'12 - 34 Strong Finishers!

2012-05-13T05:51:00.001-07:00

Today I sit and reflect on another amazing season with TNT. For me, as a coach, mentor, motivator, trainer and runner it is an important part of closing a season. I hope to learn at least one thing each year from my mistakes or what I have done right.

Lessons Learned:
1. Keep it simple!
2. Ask more questions to find out everyone's story. Knowing their ties to TNT is important.

I am happy to say the groups were amazing and so supportive of each other.

Now the thinking cap is on for the Fall'12 season. We are always trying to get better and better each year and building a reputation of being strong in the running community. I am so excited about things to come!

The fall season will include Nike Women's Marathon in San Francisco.

TNT is also excited to introduce to you Triathlons. This is so exciting for us
! This sport is only growing and I can't wait to see where will go with it in the future. This season we are training for the National Triathlon.

Now to the planning of our next amazing season.

My TNT Goofy Challenge 2012 - Orlando, Florida 2012 Jan 6, 7, 8

2012-03-11T13:11:00.001-07:00

Back in July of 2011 this crazy email came into my mailbox from Team In Training Canada that only TNT Alumni were now allowed to do the Goofy Challenge through TNT - the first time ever! I had ALWAYS wanted to do this and I needed a new goal that was challenging!

Off went my registration forms to Cheryl Pollock with TNT Canada Flex. Nope, I never even told Kevin. Fundraising doesn't scare me. I needed a challenge since I had just finished one of the biggest challenges of taking my Muscle Activation Techniques courses to become a MAT Specialist. I always rise to the occasion of a good challenge!

My main goal for 2011 was to get faster with my 10K and Half Marathon times so I never had my Goofy Challenge training on my radar. I remained focused for my goal race in Los Angeles in October, 2011. I trained hard and hired an online personal run coach, Tania Jones of Goalspeed Coaching. Tania is located in Ontario and I found out about Tania from another TNT friend, Brock Skywalker. Acquiring Tania's coaching skills was exactly what I needed! I needed to become accountable to a coach. Yes I could have done my own program and planned my own workouts but not having that higher accountability seems to make it much easier to make excuses not to do the workout that I have planned.

My training with Tania was perfect! She tested and challenged my mental and physical ability with running. Weekly, on Wednesday evenings, we would meet to do our group training for LA Rock'n'Roll Half Marathon but Tania stressed that I must start running for myself if I had a goal for myself. I, on the other hand, often sacrifice my own goal just so I can help someone else achieve their own goal. I guess that is the Run Coach within me. I was faithful to my journaling and keeping constant contact with Tania. The goal was to train 5x per week - 1 run was intense with intervals and 1run was the distance training for the Half Marathon. The other 3x per week were anything between 6km to 12km. Most weeks, I managed to get 4x per weeks and seldom was I able to achieve the 5x per week training as planned. I wasn't too disappointed in myself as I was also teaching fitness and cycling classes 4 to 6x per week. I knew I wasn't sitting on my butt and not training. No matter what, I knew if I had a time goal I would have to put in the hard work to achieve it.

Rock'n'Roll Los Angeles 2011 - Half Marathon PB

Needless to say, I did several 10K events within Calgary and I started to run consistently faster than I had ever run before for a 10K. Wow...I never ever thought that would happen, but it did. I actually saw results from my training and that felt good. Then our event of the LA Rock'n'Roll Half Marathon in October I finally got the monkey off my back and ran faster than I have ran since 2006. I ran faster and I a 5 years older. I was very happy with my results of the hard work.

After taking a couple of weeks off to recover from the race, it was then time to get back on the training plan, but this time, it was specifically for the Goofy Challenge! For those of you who don't know, the Goofy Challenge if a Half Marathon on Saturday (21.1km) and then a Full Marathon on Sunday (42.2km). Then we decided to do a little 5km race on Friday just so we could get more "bling" from the weekend. My training for the Goofy officially started November 14, 2011. I do not recommend that new runners do this but I had a SOLID half marathon base where weekly I was running a minimum of 21km to 25k on a Saturday followed by a minimum of 10km to 15km on Sunday.

My training schedule sort of looked like this:

Day 1	Day 2 Workout	Day 3	Day 4 Saturday	Day 5 Sunday
8K Easy	Intervals ~ Approx 10K	10K Easy	Nov 19 2 Hrs	Nov 20 2 Hrs 30 Mins
10K Easy	Intervals ~ Approx 10K	12K Easy	Nov 26 2 Hrs	Nov 27 3 Hrs
8K Easy	Intervals ~ Approx 10K	10K Easy	Dec 3 REST	Dec 4 21.1K @ 3 Hrs Vegas Rock'n'Roll
10K Easy	Intervals ~ Approx 10K	12K Easy	Dec 10 2 Hrs 30 Mins	Dec 11 3 Hrs 30 Mins
8K Easy	Intervals ~ Approx 10K	12K Easy	Dec 17 3 Hrs	Dec 18 4 Hrs
10K Easy	Intervals ~ Approx 10K	10K Easy	Dec 24 2 Hrs	Dec 25 2 Hrs
8K Easy	Intervals ~ Approx 10K	12K Easy	Dec 31 10K	Jan 1 10K
10K Easy	10K Easy	Jan 6 Race Day Three Amigos 5K	Jan 7 Donald Duck Half Marathon 21.1K	Jan 8 Mickey Mouse Full Marathon 42.2K

Remember, this plan worked for me but may not work for you!

Before I knew it, the time was here to execute my plan! What was my plan.....gosh, I really didn't know! I had never done something like this before. So what was my plan....my goal or game plan for the Goofy Challenge was to be realistic and enjoy the moment! My TNT Goofy Challenge was amazing thanks to our dear friend, Michele Pedersen!

Goals for each race:

~ Three Amigos 5K - Friday, January 6, 2012 - No Goal :) - Have fun! Take pictures! Dance! Smile!

~ Mission Accomplished!!! We had a blast!

_________________

~ Donald Duck 21.1K Half Marathon - Saturday, January 7, 2012 - Goal 3:00 :) - Have fun! Take pictures! Dance! Smile! Enjoy the weather! Find Cinderella and pirates!

~ Mission Accomplished!!! It was so much fun!

__________________

~ Mickey Mouse 42.2K Full Marathon - Sunday, January 8, 2012 - Goal NONE!!! Keep moving! Beat the crowd to the Magic Kingdom so I could use the flush toilets! Smile! Enjoy the moment! Find Cinderella! Smile some more! One foot in front of the other!

~ Mission Accomplished!!! I had an amazing experience and my time was way better than I expected! PLUS....I not only got to see Cinderella but also got to hold onto Prince Charming!

____________________________

The hardest thing to do in preparation for this amazing event was not to be tempted to stay on your feet for long days. The temptation was there! To keep ourselves active plus rested, we did buy a park hopper pass so we could spend small amounts of time at each park. Prior to getting to each park, we would make a decision on our "priority" of the visit to each park. Hollywood - It was to ride the Tower of Terror; Animal Kingdom - It was to find the donkey and piglets (but were unsuccessful); Magic Kingdom - To go inside Cinderella's Castle and find as many characters as possible; Epcot - Well, that was the celebration after all the running - it was to have a celebration drink at each country :)

The challenges of doing this event were plenty. Water was extremely expensive but it was a necessity; Good food on the Disney Parks were difficult to find. It was there but in plentiful amounts. We were looking at snacking quantities not meal sized. There was a big time change shift to our disadvantage too. Of course, we did not plan for these sort of things. Thankfully, I did bring half a dozen coconut water for my electrolyte and a case of protein bars. I always travelled with several of my own snacks handy. As for the lack of sleep, we just coped and did our best! On average we had 3 to 4 hours of sleep per night but it didn't seem to matter. We still had energy and were just as happy as ever, after all, we were at the happiest place on earth and somehow we really were happy!

Finally, why do I think this event was so amazing for me...............

1. I had a positive attitude and didn't set ridiculous goals for myself. No stress!

2. My travel companion (Michele Pedersen) was amazing and respected that my priority for the visit was to run these races.

3. I snacked all the time and I tried to keep them small and as healthy as possible.

4. I drank as much water as possible plus one coconut water per day for electrolytes.

5. Recovery socks! I slept in them each night. It honestly was awesome. Prior to the socks, I did ice my feet.

6. I ate a Power Crunch Protein Bar prior to my event and during my event. I wasn't starving during this race.

7. I sucked on lifesaver Candies during the entire marathon. My sugar levels didn't drop at all.

8. I went for a MAT treatment with Suzanne Gross in Orlando (Love her!!! The best treatments EVER!!!)

9. I allowed myself to look around, smile, be in the moment - I LOVED IT!!!

To those of you considering the Goofy Challenge, I would highly recommend it! I completely forgot to mention Team In Training! WOW!!! Team In Training did an amazing Inspiration Dinner. It was a million times better than some I have attended in my years of experience with TNT. I was extremely proud to be apart of such an amazing group of heroes and to have the honor of being a run coach for this organization. It was the Inspirational Dinner that always recharges my batteries! I end up loving life more than ever and appreciating each and everyone that are in my life! Another thing I was thankful for was that our dear friend Michele was there to actually see and experience this event with me as I know TNT is amazing but sometimes I am not sure if our friends see it the same way as I do. I know Michele love her experience in Orlando too!

So where do I go from here? I'm not sure.....I do have new goals but with this amazing experience, I am unsure if anything can compare to this experience.

I have, however, registered for the Disneyland Half Marathon in September, 2012 where I will qualify for another medal called "Coast To Coast Challenge".

2012 Goofy Challenge Completed!!!

I Did It!!!

My Finisher Photos Below:

Wow...what a "Rockin" year!

2011-12-13T21:18:00.000-08:00

Blogging isn't one of the things that I put on my list of things "TO DO", but after reading several other blogs out there, it has inspired me to get back to business.
So why was my year "Rockin"?

Several reasons:

San Diego Rock'n'Roll Event - June 5, 2011

Kevin participated in his FIRST Team In Training event as a participant. We had just lost our bulldog of 12 years, Georgia Peach, and this seemed to be a good reason to love life again and have a purpose. Kevin dedicated his event to our dear friends' Ross and Lynda Hunt's brother and nephew. I am very proud of Kevin for the awesome job he did and for me, it was an wonderful reward to see Kevin experience my passion of Team In Training!

Los Angeles Rock'n'Roll Half Marathon Event - October 30, 2011

Here I'm rockin' it out at the finishline. Kevin and I trained the Bikini Boot Camp Babes for this event. We were small in numbers but BIG in spirit! For this race, I, for once, had set a goal to beat my last personal best for a half marathon, which I set in Vancouver back in 2007. I'm five years older BUT 4 minutes faster than I was then. It felt awesome to "RACE" for myself which is something that I would normally never do. I'm all about helping everyone else achieving their goals and my goals are secondary. For this race, I hired a run coach, Tania Jones, and all my coaching was done online. Yes - I feel I do know what I need to do and No - I felt I could not do it on my own. I needed to be accountable to my run coach. Tania was very patient with me. I am very grateful for her guidance and advice. I credit my increase in time to my dedication of improve myself. Thank you Kevin for dragging my butt around the neighbourhood so I can get my speed and distance in for the week. I was happy with the results!

Las Vegas Rock'n'Roll Half Marathon Event - December 4, 2011

The final Rock'n'Roll event for the year was in Las Vegas. This trip was strictly for fun! Yup....FUN!!! We travelled with our long time friends and running buddies. Normally races have an approximate 25% no show or drop rate but not this race! All 44,000 people were there in some capacity! I had the pleasure of running with Deb and Elena who had their race check list to accomplish. You know you're in trouble at a race when your feet and legs are aching from dancing so hard before a race. Yup, fun was the perfect pace! Let's see, there was beverages, dancing, almost running through the wedding chapel, pawn shops, wedding chapels (The one where Kevin and I got married - The Chapel Of The Bells, which by the way, is connected to Tons Of Fun Motel. That cracks me up!), gambling, photo opportunities with nice looking policemen and plain and simply having fun! The race alone was crowded (Sally! Sunshine! Our code words to yell when we couldn't see each other) but we were never alone. The gong show began once we crossed the finishline but that can't take away the awesome and fun experience I had with the girls. Yup - mark this race off my bucket list.

As a result of running TWO Rock'n'Roll events, I will be receiving my ROCK ENCORE medal. Kevin will be receiving his TRIPLE CROWN medal for completing THREE Rock'n'Roll events. It's all about the *Bling*!

These events ~ AMAZING ~ Yes, even Las Vegas!

This is it for my Rock'n'Roll Series for 2011. I'm extremely happy with the outcome. Was there more to life besides the Rock'n'Roll Series? Hell ya!

My next blog in January will take you on my RunDisney journey. My taste of the Disney race events started this September where we purchased, on a whim from Craig's List and ran under alias names. It was fun and spontaneous! My journey starts on Friday, January 6 when I run the Three Amigos 5K; then Saturday, January 7 I run the Donald Duck Half Marathon; and then finally completing my Goofy Challenge, I will run the Mickey Mouse Full Marathon on Sunday, January 8. I'm nervous and excited ~ all rolled into one! One thing that I do know for sure, I'm ready for the challenge - mentally, physically and emotionally! Bring it on!

Well, that's all for my Rock'n'Roll Series for 2011.........I just wonder what will happen in 2012?

Skin Cancer Screening - Done for another year!

2011-08-11T14:58:00.000-07:00

Did you know that some of your old moles that you have had from birth can be develop skin cancer? I didn't! I always thought it started with new moles.

Today I went for my annual skin cancer screening. Yes, head to toe; inside and out (yes, exactly what you think); between the fingers and toes. I did feel confident that I would get an all clear BUT I do not want to EVER take that chance where it "IS" Melanoma ever again.

So, when I was in San Diego in June of this year, I severely burned when out on the race from my shins to my ankles. The doctor's words were to me, "once you have been given the warning, you shouldn't ever get another sunburn again as they will develop again." Yikes! Really?

A very good reminder for me.....especially when we are enjoying tons of sunshine. One more month of summer and then off to Palm Springs for September. Shares in the sunscreen company perhaps?

So, another year completed. Next check up is already scheduled - April 12, 2012, prior to summer, when it is a good starting point to measure the growth of a mole.

Please be careful everyone!

I wanted puppy and things got a little goofy!

2011-07-23T14:43:00.000-07:00

Okay....it's official.....

I'm totally frickin' nuts! I've just signed up to run a half AND full marathon in ONE weekend!!! Have I lost my mind???? Well it gets better!!!! Not only do I have to train for this event, I also decided to raise money for LLSC on top of training. Yup, I'm nuts, actually more like GOOFY! Kind of fitting, don't you think?

The puppy is on hold until the event is done! The Goofy has been on my bucket list.

Thank you for considering to support me in this worthy cause.

Gotta run........

Sheena – The Crazy Running Lady!
(403) 620.9663
Email: tntcoachsheena@gmail.com or sheena@healthmattersfitness.com

I am raising money for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC) as a member of Team In Training participating in the WALT DISNEY WORLD Full, Half & Goofy Marathon Run (VTNT) and I'm asking you to help by making a contribution! Please forward this email to as many people as you can to encourage them to donate as well! You will be supporting LLSC’s mission: to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.

You can help support me by making a secure online donation using your credit card. Click on the link below:

Click Here To View THE CRAZY RUNNING LADY'S Team In Training Donation Website!

You will receive an email confirmation, along with your tax receipt for your donation and I will be notified as soon as you make your donation. I thank you in advance for your support, and really appreciate your generosity!!

How Much Can A Brain Retain?

2011-07-15T08:15:00.000-07:00

Today, as I study for my Muscle Activation Techniques exam, I started to wonder just how much room the brain actually had to retain all my thoughts and knowledge that I have recently learned.

I was thinking of my 89 year old mom, who on our last visit, thought I was only 37 years old and not 47 years old. When I corrected her, she actually was surprised as that meant she was coming 90 years old and not 80 as she had thought. As she put her hands over her head saying, "That means I'm coming 90!", she was a little confused where the absence of time went. Here's my question....what happens to those thoughts and memories recorded in the brain? Are they gone? Are they replaced? Are they filed somewhere else and only to be recalled when needed?

As I am studying, I too think, how can I remember this stuff. I am erasing my other thoughts? Am I making a new filing system in my brain? Am I going to be able to recall and remember these thoughts? How did I manage to side-track myself thinking about how I can remember things?

What to I think? I believe the brain is amazing! It will do what it needs to do and it will understand what it understands.

Is there room for more knowledge? YOU BET!!! If my mom can be 90 years old and only get a few things mixed up, that means I'm only half full of knowledge compared to her :)

BACK TO STUDYING.......

What do you do to keep your mental sharpness? We focus on our physical sharpness, but don't forget we need to have the mental capacity to do it!

Until next time.....

Gotta Run...........

Summer Events Begin!

2011-07-04T16:48:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th Of July to our American friends!

Here's to a fun filled month of activity for July!

Enjoy Summer Everyone!

Life With Structure!

2011-06-27T16:59:00.000-07:00

Hello Health Nuts!
I did it!!! I have officially completed the Greg Roskopf's Muscle Activation Techniques Internship - Denver XIX program.

I had started the program in September, 2010 and at that time I was scared, frightened, excited and nervous to take on such a task. Now the next step has just begun - preparing for my exam to become a M.A.T. Specialist.

Time and experience invested = Satisfaction and personal pride rewarded!

If you haven't heard about M.A.T. let me know. I'd love to have the opportunity to explain what it is all about.

Onto the next step on my journey....

Mr. Sunshine - Where are you? Summer to arrive tomorrow!

2011-06-19T07:09:00.000-07:00

Hello - Mr. Sunshine....Where are you?????

Summer officially arrives tomorrow and we have all been learning to embrace the clouds and rain.

Things To Do In The Rain:

~ Read a book

~ Dust off that treadmill/elliptical machine and use it

~ Go play in the rain (with caution to lightening)

Think optimistically!!!

We can't have a rainbow without the rain!

MAT Denver XIX Weekend

2011-05-23T15:47:00.000-07:00

Another amazing weekend in Denver!

One weekend left of our internship. It is hard to believe that time has gone by so quickly. Does this mean my learning is done? If you would have asked me back in September, I would have said yes but today I would answer that my learning has just begun!

The body is a mystery! It is an engineering master piece! To those professionals who believe that they have all the answers to the body and how it moves, I say "wow!" The day I say that I have all the answers, I quit! I believe my learning has just begun. As Greg Roskopf (in photo with Heather Kelm and myself) has mentioned in many sessions, that we cannot under estimate the body and it's potential.

Here's to looking forward to our future with MAT!

(http://www.muscleactivation.com)

Muscle Activation Techniques Denver XIX

2011-05-20T20:17:00.000-07:00

This weekend we have all come to the sad realization that we only have one more weekend to go here in Denver before we are released into the real world. SAD? EXCITED? Two emotions that each of us are expressing.

Not only have we all become professional associates who help and support each other, but also we have helped each other mentally and physically through this journey. An amazing group of caring individuals who I am proud to call my extended MAT family. No we are not all the same but we are all just a little bit different, which makes each of us unique but yet the same. In our class we have people from as far away as Florida to San Diego to Seattle to Montreal and of course little old Calgary. We are all pioneers in is amazing industry and it is so exciting to see how we can help spread the good news.

My exam date is set! I have confirmed my final exam date of Wednesday, July 20 in Denver. Fear and excitement are driving me to the finish. It has been an amazing journey! A special thank you to Heather Kelm of Calgary MAT who has been my study buddy, roommate and the best support system I could have asked for (beside my wonderful husband Kevin). She has talked me off the cliff a couple of times. Thanks Heather! Heather and I have been working out of the Calgary Volleydome and sharing a room where we have been practicing. I am currently practicing from my own home studio as well.

Why do I write this blog tonight? I am writing it to say thank you to MAT XIX classmates, Heather Kelm and my awesome husband Kevin. You have helped me rise to the top and it feels GREAT!

The Nasty “C” Word

2011-05-03T18:29:00.000-07:00

May Is Skin Cancer Awareness Month!

By: Sheena Denscombe

Life couldn’t be any better. I had a dream and followed it. I always loved the outdoors throughout my childhood and was always active throughout my lifetime. I had so much to celebrate. I was obese and conquered it. I was inactive in my 30’s, and conquered that. I had finally found my passion of fitness and sharing my knowledge with other middle aged women about all the awesome-ness and all that it had to offer. On Valentine’s Day in 2009, my decision was made, with my husband’s support, to quit my “big girl” job. That was it! I always said I never wanted to leave this earth saying “I wish I had” and my biological clock was ticking.

On March 23rd, 2009, I handed my letter into my manager and explained that I never wanted to live in regret. I was on top of the world! The next day, while in the middle of a impromptu meeting, I received the phone call that changed my life!

It was the doctor’s office. Instantly, my thought was, “they never call”. I excused myself from the chatter of the meeting that was around my desk and picked up the phone. That is where I heard the nasty “C” word. (Insert hard blow to the stomach here!) The voice on the other end of the phone said, "Sheena the results came back that you have Stage 1 Melanoma Skin Cancer and we have scheduled you for surgery with the best surgeon in Calgary, Dr. Arlette and your surgery was on April 1st." I instantly was sick, hung my head and asked for clarification. “Excuse, did you just say I have cancer?” The voice said, “yes”. Wow cancer! I didn’t cry; I didn’t react; I didn’t do anything except stop. All I kept thinking about was how non-shallont that she just told me that I had cancer. No emotion and no empathy for me. How could she? Now thinking back, can you imagine her job of delivering the blow of the news of skin cancer to patients daily?

In December, 2008 when I was training for the California Marathon I had noticed a little freckle that I didn’t remember seeing before. The funny thing, I would kick it when I ran and the area would get sore. I watched it grow in a short time and felt it was suspicious. Everyone I had showed, thought it was nothing to worry about. It was just a freckle. I had decided to get it cut off, just to be safe.

I hung up the phone and instantly my co-workers were aware that something was wrong. I delivered my news to them that the little mole that everyone thought I was over reacting about, was indeed melanoma. Silence quickly fell over the cubicle. Finally one co-worker spoke up and asked, “what are you going to do?” I sat there and said, “I have no idea. I can’t believe I have cancer. This wasn’t part of my life plan.”

That’s exactly it. You cannot plan for cancer or interruptions in life. The interruptions just happen. You have to move on as life does not stop for anyone. My manager called me into the office and asked if I wanted to retract my resignation so I could deal with my “situation”. I appreciated that so much as it put my mind at ease. This was one thing less to worry about. Now to think. Think about what, I’m not sure but I knew I had to think.

A day or so went by where I would say that I had cancer but didn’t believe it. There was no emotions, just confusion. I kept positive and read so many things about skin cancer and remained extremely confident. I finally decided that more than ever, I had to follow my dream of being a full time personal trainer. I did not want to have any regrets in my life. I gave the news to my manager and to my husband that I MUST follow my dream. Still the reality of having cancer had not really hit home. Then there was a phone call from my home insurance agent who told me that my current program on my home could not cover my home business activities and they would have to cancel my insurance on my home and provide me with another type of insurance. That was it!!! The tears started and the emotions were out of the gate. I started crying so hard and the thoughts came flooding into my head. How can I take care of Kevin if I will not be here to take care of him? How can I prevent this from being more work for Kevin if I do die? I don’t want Kevin to go through anything bad? I never once thought of myself but rather the people that I would leave behind. That is it. It is not about us, but rather the people that directly affect our lives. The poor insurance agent, she had no idea what was going on through my head, except that she had an extremely upset client and she needed to calm her down. Thankfully everything with that aspect did workout without any problems. Now for me to deal with my emotions.

I did my research and had my surgery. I’m happy to report that the biopsy of the area directly affected by the melanoma was given the all clear. Now I to change my lifestyle. I would go for a run and put sunscreen faithfully on my neck, arms and face but never my legs. My legs never burned so why did they need sunscreen. Now I pack my bag for boot camp, and I will instantly pack the sunscreen before the water. Weird. I normally wouldn’t do that. It’s been a total adjustment to my lifestyle. Instead of shorts, I will wear long pants. On a nice sunny day, you couldn’t get me inside because I would want to bask in the sun, and now I ration my time in the sun.

My story is one that I only want to tell on a yearly basis only to remind everyone and myself of how delicate life is and it can change on a dime! To my friends and family, please avoid tanning beds and always wear sunscreen!

Play safe outside everyone!

Never Too Old To Learn or Too Young To Stop!

2011-03-18T09:19:00.000-07:00

Never Too Old To Learn or Too Young To Start!

In September I had enrolled in the Muscle Activation Techniques (M.A.T.) Internship Program in Denver, CO. Monthly I have been traveling to Denver to be challenged and learn this amazing new skill to add to my resume.

M.A.T. to me is simply amazing! The reason I felt I needed to go on this learning path was because there was a piece of the personal training puzzle that was missing to me. Why do we avoid working a sore muscle instead of looking for the reason it was sore, was the question that always popped into my head. So on the pathway of learn I went.....and pathway led me to M.A.T.

Seven months into my program and three months left, I am confident in this amazing tool! It's crazy! Amazing things can happen. The key word is "can" but not always will it happen. The body and brain are amazing. There are never any guarantees but with these tools I can test muscles, activate muscles and sometimes I can help people feel better. Wow....those are amazing tools to possess. I can honestly say "I LOVE M.A.T."

In my remainder time of my program, we are faced with more questions of the body and brain. Once I finish the program I do not believe that will be the end of my learning. Each day is a new day and each day I learn one more new things. My ultimate goal of helping people has become more "rounded" and "rewarding". I am not afraid of any one's aches or pains anymore. I do not treat pain but merely acknowledge pain and use those strong body signals to help me assess what the body is trying to say.

I hope each person has the opportunity to experience M.A.T. at some point in your life.

This photo is with my study buddy - Budget Rebucka. I've come to love every square inch of her bare bones skeleton.

If you are interested in giving M.A.T. a try, please drop me an email at sheena@healthmattersfitness.com

This Is YOUR Lucky Day Promotion - March 17, 2011

2011-03-17T05:00:00.001-07:00

Health Matters Fitness, Inc.

This Is YOUR Lucky Day Promotion
Thursday, March 17, 2011

Spring Tune Up Personal Training Packages

*** New Location - Calgary Volleydome ***

2825 24 Avenue Northwest

Click Here To View Map

Special Promotional Volleydome Pricing Options

$210.00 ~ 5 - 60 minute One-on-one Personal Training Sessions

(Regular Price $420.00 ~ 50% Savings)

$367.50 ~ 10 - 60 minute One-on-one Personal Training Sessions

(Regular Price $787.50 ~ 53% Savings)

$157.50 ~ 5 - 30 minute One-on-one Personal Training Sessions

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$262.50~ 10 - 30 minute One-on-one Personal Training Sessions

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Volleydome Hours:

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10:00 am to 3:00 pm

Special Promotional Health Matters Fitness Inhome Studio Pricing Options

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$210.00 ~ 5 - 60 minute One-on-one Personal Training Sessions

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$315.00 ~ 10 - 60 minute One-on-one Personal Training Sessions

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$131.25 ~ 5 - 30 minute One-on-one Personal Training Sessions

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$210.00~ 10 - 30 minute One-on-one Personal Training Sessions

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Don't wait to try on your summer clothes and go "gasp!".

Start your tune up program today!

sheena@healthmattersfitness.com

www.healthmattersfitness.com

©Health Matters Fitness, Inc....because your health matters!

Look Out Vegas Here We Come!!!!

2011-03-09T13:12:00.000-08:00

Come Train With Us & Run The Las Vegas Half or Full Marathon - December 4, 2011. The Denscombe's have registered for the "FUN" half marathon.

Rock 'n' Roll Las Vegas Marathon & 1/2 Marathon Hi Rock 'n' Rollers - we hope you're excited as we are about our news that the Zappos.com Rock 'n' Roll Las Vegas is officially going to be at NIGHT!

48-Hour Exclusive Registration Opportunity
$121 - Lowest price of the year!
Registration will close March 10 at 5:45pm PST

Event Name: Zappos.com Rock 'n' Roll Las Vegas Marathon & 1/2 Marathon
Date/Times: Sunday, December 4th, 2011 – Time: 4:00 PM (Marathon); 5:30 PM (Half Marathon)
Location: Mandalay Bay
Registration Fees:*
1/2 Marathon
$121 (exclusive registration*)
$130 (May 31 - June 5)
$140 (June 6 - September 4)
$155 (September 5 - November 30)

Marathon
$121 (exclusive registration*)
$140 (May 31 - June 5)
$165 (June 6 - September 4)
$175 (September 5 - November 30)

To Register, click here!!! https://cui2.active.com/event-reg/select-race?e=1267702

Remembering Georgia Peach - Not Just Our Family Pet!

2011-03-04T06:26:00.000-08:00

As I write this blog today, I dedicate it to the memory of our dear Georgia Peach.

Georgia crossed the "Rainbow Bridge" on Saturday, February 12th, 2011.

Here we are, three weeks after our loss. I honestly didn't know how Kevin and I would accept it or take it, after all she's "just a dog". That's exactly it....she wasn't "just a dog". Georgia Peach was filled many voids in our life and helped us find peace within our souls.

Today as I sit at the computer to blog, I miss her coming over to me and putting her chin on my toes or pawing at my leg for attention. That endless and countless love - not matter how annoying I may have thought she was, she came back for more all the time.

Today I encourage each of you who is a parent of a fur-baby to scratch their ears, give a good belly rub and perhaps lay on the couch with them and appreciate them for their unconditional love.

During our loss of Miss Peach, we received many letters, email and phone calls from numerous friends, family and clients expressing their sympathies of our loss. We want all of you know that extending out to us has helped us deal with our deep and heavy hearts. We will someday get another family pet but will never have one to replace her as there will always be one Georgia Peach!

We miss you Georgia and we hope you are having fun with all the other bullies in heaven.

We're One Month Into 2011. Off With A BANG!!!!

2011-02-04T09:33:00.000-08:00

We're One Month Into 2011. Off With A BANG!!!!

Here we are, doing what we can do to have a successful year. Here's Natasha, Brenda and me after a brisk 5k run during the cold and frosty days in Calgary. Hey, we can't wait for it to be nice but rather we can take control and get out there. Now that's how we are planning on having a successful year!

What is on MY calendar for 2011?

Successfully finish the Muscle Activiation Techniques (M.A.T.) course
Continue to HELP people - Health & Wellness Coaching
Be the best person I can be for mankind - Giving back to those who can't give!
Respect my friends - and tell them!
Spend time and attention to my family - as they often get the least amount :(

So have you taken inventory of your life? What's on YOUR list for 2011?

Until next time!

2011 NYC Marathon

2011-01-05T13:21:00.000-08:00

Hello Friends!

I’m almost depressed today as I received the 2011 NYC marathon package as I want to go do this marathon again soooooo bad!!!! If you haven’t heard, Kevin and I did the 2010 NYC marathon and LOVED it!!! This was on our “bucket list” and we can honestly say that this was one of the highlights of our life!

If you don’t know about the marathon, it is a lottery to get in and the chances of getting in are not very good. We went to the marathon with several of our close friends and we all didn’t want to risk not getting in so we all “packaged” into the race by using Elaine Tomiszer of Marlin Travel who is one of the authorized travel agents you are able to use. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THEM!

Here's Elaine's information.

Hey, if you want more information about the race, I’d be happy to answer questions as well. I've downloaded the forms too so if you want them, drop me a note. I'll forward them onto you as well. My email is sheena@healthmattersfitness.com

Elaine Tomiszer
Group Travel Professional
Marlin Travel
1111 Elgin St W, Northumberland Mall
Cobourg, ON K9A 5H7
T 905 377 0997
email elaine.tomiszer@marlintravel.ca

The best description of this race, in my words: "It's an event in New York City and there happens to be a marathon in the middle of it."

It's Back! One Day Sale!

2010-12-31T07:14:00.000-08:00

It's Back! By popular demand!!!

ONE DAY ONLY!

Today, December 31, 2010. Offer closes at midnight tonight!

Did you know that most Canadian's activity levels decrease by as much as 30% during the winter months? Don't be one of those people and get active today!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year To All!

2010-12-24T13:21:00.001-08:00

Only 10 hours left of the Health Matters Fitness One Day Sale! Sale ends at Midnight on December 24, 2010. For more details, email sheena@healthmattersfitness.com

If you are interesed in burning off a couple of calories on Boxing Day, meet us at 9:00 am on Sunday, December 26 at Eau Claire YMCA. If you can't run, come out for a walk! There's no time like the present to get moving!

We are officially closed for the holidays!

On Monday, December 27 we will be back at work training clients.

Happy Holidays!

Day #3 - NYC City Marathon (a bit delayed)

2010-11-08T02:49:00.000-08:00

Okay.....I had forgotten to finish my blog....well, here it goes :)

This was one of the most amazing experiences in my life!!!! This may have been my slowest marathon but truly one of the most amazing! This is a MUST if you have a marathon on your bucket list!

(Sheena getting excited for hitting the road!)

Our day started at 4am. We get up and ready for the marathon. Down to the lobby at 4:45 am and waited for our group so we could leave for the library at 5:15 am. The buses were lined up around the NYC library for a city block. Every efficient volunteers putting you through the cue. We made it to line up #1. At 5:45 am we loaded the bus. At 6:30 am we arrived at Stanton Island.

(Sheena and Kevin on the bus heading to the start line)

I have never seen so many buses carrying so many runners - EVER! We all said our good-byes and good lucks and separated to go to our color corrals. I was in orange and Kevin was in blue. I was super happy that Natasha and Ross was orange as well. It made the hurray up and wait game way better. We all dressed in our layers and found shelter from the cool wind. The feeling of sitting and waiting among all the runners was crazy. We looked around and it felt as though we were in some sort of a tent refugee camp. There we spread out our plastic and foamy mats to sit on. We then layered with plastic, heated blankets, and disguarded clothing. This wasn't the fun part, but yet it was all part of the experience. This was pretty slick! They had hot chocolate, tea, coffee plus bagels and yes Dunkn'Donuts. The John on the spot toilets were plentiful (not pleasant though!). After a little bit, I had to get up and walk around to see what was going on. Afterall, this was a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Off I went to find a hot cup of coffee :)

(Ross and Natasha sharing some warmth)

Marathon start times are as follows: wheelchair division, 8:30 a.m.; professional women, 9:10 a.m.; wave 1, 9:40 a.m.; wave 2, 10:10 a.m.; wave 3, 10:40 a.m. Yes waiting until 10:40 am until we get to hit the pavement.

As our wave was called to the start line, Natasha and held hands among the crowd of people from all over the world. Natasha recalled that every single marathon that she has run, Kevin and I have been a part of them. Thank you so much Natasha! You were music to my ears and wings to my heart on race day. If I couldn't have been with Kevin at the start line, I am so happy that I was at the start line with Natasha! We walked holding hands so we wouldn't get separated and then we could see the bridge.....yes the bridge.....and it was the startline! Yes, this was real! Then the song, "New York, New York" by Frank Sinatra was playing. I wouldn't have expected any other song!

Off we went.....across the start line, across the bridge. Wow....a dream come true! What a view! Gorgeous! All the sudden, the time we spent waiting to start had complete didn't matter. We were off! Yes....running the New York City Marathon...the world famous race. We were about to experience what everyone had been talking about and experiencing all the fuss!

(Natasha on the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge with Manhattan in the background)

We stayed together for only a couple of Kilometers but I could not keep up with Natasha as she had trained, and this chick....well, training wasn't a priority for me unfortunately. (oops!)

This race, you are NEVER alone in this race! As Natasha race ahead, she stopped, turned around to me and yelled, "Hey, there Jared from Subway!". Famous person sighting #1. Yup, Jared from Subway sweats, grunts and moans like all the rest of us running a marathon. Yup, no special treatment, except he had an entourage.

I continued on my journey and loved every minute of it! Yes, even the rolled ankle, big blister on my heel, the tummy problems and the hours of spent on my quest of the finishline, but that's what a marathon is all about....the unexpected.

Highlights of my marathon:

1. Running with Natasha!

2. Being told by a stranger that he loved me :)

3. Taking pretzels from a stranger in Manhattan (I was hungry!)

4. High-fiving the bar patrons on 1st Avenue - WOW!

5. My Brooklyn Friends (random strangers I talked with)

6. The countless Canadian Flags along the route and the cheers of "Go Canada!"

7. My new friend from New Jersey, Hector Rivera. A fellow TNTer who ran his first marathon in NYC. I needed to help someone, and asked if I could help him finish his race and cross the finishline. Together, we finished!!!!

8. All the wonderful cheerful and encouraging NYC police and fire personnel along the way. I realized afterwards I didn't take a single photo of these awesome folks.

9. Running into people from Calgary on the run. Yes....thankfully I ran with Sandy from Calgary several times. It was so awesome to see you again. Crazy how we had to meet in NYC for a run. Thanks for running (and walking) with me so much!

10. Wonderful people from New Zealand who helped me find my way home after the race. I had no idea where I was or how to get back to my hotel. So, these wonderful people waiting for the subway said I could follow them to their hotel, which was a couple blocks from my hotel. They were a God Sent! They were absolutely amazing to me and got me back to my hotel, safe and sound!

And finally, we ran through all the boroughs - Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, Bronx! Wow....I cannot express the appreciation I have for all the people of this wonderful city! All the thousands of volunteers and the thousands of people who were there from the crack of dawn to the darkness of the night. All of them still cheering as though each one of us were the winner of the race. Simply amazing!

Final words..........
I learned so many things about myself on this race. I learned that I am not a quitter; I CAN do anything I want to do; I understand how much my body can do and take and then I can give just a little more; I LOVE mankind and we don't give it enough credit! I would recommend every person who can run experience the NYC Marathon. It is an event more than a race!

Well............finally I am done this blog for the ING NYC Marathon for 2010. I DID IT!!!!

Day #2 - The Quest For The Banana and Bagel

2010-11-07T01:56:00.000-07:00

The quest for bananas and bagels led us into several interesting places and restaurants. It was fun! The end result was Dukes Cafe - half dozen fresh bagels and bananas.

Most of the afternoon was spent relaxing and laying around. We all ventured out of the hotel at 5:30 pm for supper at a cute true Italian Restaurant and served by real Italians too. Amazing food and fabulous wine and even better company!

After we had a team meeting to arrange a meeting place - pre and post for the race. Then off to bed we went. Yup a very broken sleep. Awake at midnight, sleep for 20 minutes up at 1am, etc. Yup, just like the first marathon.....a little restless.

Too boot, we have a time change today. Talk about worried about the time. We made it. Kevin and I are ready to rock. We were down in the lobby at 4:45 am to get a cup of coffee and wait for our friends. The elevators are crazy already. 5:15 am we depart for the NYC library where we catch the bus for the start line. Our wave depart on the race at 10:40 am. 20 layers over our running clothes and snacks packed!

Catch up to you tomorrow! I know my feet may feel broken but my fingers will still work!

Gotta run.........

Sheena & Kevin