Before I became a parent I had a fairly good exercise regime. 

I occasionally participated in organized bike rides, took long hikes in the mountains and swam laps at the nearby pool. 

But once my children were born, I couldn’t seem to find the time to get in a productive workout.

As a result, my body shape changed. Then I blinked and 10 years flew by me, I just couldn’t get back on track.

Then one Saturday afternoon I stumbled upon a fitness group called Moms in Motion in Westlake Village.

They were encouraging other women to join them in an upcoming triathlon. 

One woman said to me, “you should try it, it’s a lot of fun.” “What, me compete in a triathlon.” just hearing those words come out of my mouth seemed completely absurd. 

But later that evening it hit me, this is exactly what I needed, a goal to work toward. So I decided to go for it and I ended up gaining so much more then I could have ever imagined. 

I spent the next 10 weeks training for the Santa Barbara Sprint Triathlon, a 500-yard ocean swim, a 6-mile bike ride and a 2-mile run. 

I not only gained strength but clarity in the importance of taking care of my body, for me, and as a role model for my children.

After my first day of training, I could barely run one lap around the track and within a few weeks I was comfortably running a mile. 

My first ocean swim was intimidating, but now I look forward to a brisk early morning swim; it’s an invigorating way to start my day.

Each week I was surrounded by inspiring coaches, guest speakers and supportive women, all who helped motivate me along this life-changing journey.

I devote a lot of energy to my children, and somewhere down the road, I forgot to take care of myself.

This experience made me realize it’s OK to make myself a priority.  On race day when I crossed that finish line, I felt an enormous sense of accomplishment; I had reached my first goal. 

My next goal is to tackle a half marathon and I know now there’s nothing that can stand in my way.