Do you have a story of weight loss or fitness that you would like to share in order to inspire others?

Email your story to Erinn at erinnwhitehead@zoomtown.net

Terry Stransky

Tell us a little about yourself?

I just turned 60 this year, and "celebrated" by running my 26th marathon (Memphis St. Judes). I have bee a runner all my life, starting with track in high school, played collegiate soccer for Brooklyn College, and was active for many years as a soccer coach, referee, and player in adult and co-ed leagues. I am a former marathon coach for Team-in-Training for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. For the past 2 years, I have led a MAC running group training for the Flying Pig and Columbus Half-marathons and Marathon.

I am married, with 2 grown kids living in Colorado. My wife Renee and I have been married 37 years, and she has been the biggest supporter of my athletic endeavors.

What led you to join MAC?

During my early years of long distance running, I became aware that weight-lifting and cross-training would be key to whatever success I would have. I joined MAC a number of years ago and have found it to be a well-run club with many fitness options, and trainers/instructors who are knowledgeable, friendly and will push you as hard as you want to be pushed. And, MAC continually purchases new, state of the art equipment that offers still more fitness options.

Do you have a personal fitness success story to share?

When I turned 55, I made a promise to myself to run 5 marathons in 5 months. That year, I actually ended up running 4 marathons and participating in my first 200-mile relay instead of the 5th marathon.

What advice would you give to someone who is beginning their exercise program?

Set realistic goals. Push yourself, but when things don't quite go as planned, be gentle with yourself also. Be patient - Rome wasn't built in a day, and you won't suddenly be fit in a day either. Find something you truly like to do, and make your fitness activities part of who you are, not something that you merely "do".