Aspire. Renounce. Meditate._These are the steps for a successful journey to getting in shape, according to Clara Powell, owner of Millennium Fitness for Women.
Powell always had a “passion” for going to the gym and opened Millennium Fitness for Women last January.
“I was home for eight years with my kids, and I just loved going to the gym. I did that as a passion. The other women's gym across town closed, so I figured Welland needed to have a gym specific for just women, so that's what I did,” she says.
Millennium Fitness for Women has cardio equipment and circuit training, and offers speciality classes such as hot yoga, hot Pilates, meditation and personal training. Millennium also provides a “community of support” says Powell.
“I know it's a positive environment here and I think we all see ourselves the same whether you're small or whether you're big,” she says. “We all see our own faults. With one another we can talk. It's just more comfortable. We're not judgmental. It's been very positive with the women liking it. It doesn't even feel like a gym; it just feels like family.”
Powell says the Canadian guidelines for physical activity suggest people should do three types of activities on a weekly basis to keep their bodies healthy.
“Endurance, strength and flexibility. We need to do a variety from each group in order to get the most health benefits. The benefits of exercise are emotional and physical  (and it helps) women connect mind and body,” she says.    Powell has a few tips for those ready to embark on a quest to become fit this year.
“Everyone has their own individual mind set. Everyone is different,” she says. “A schedule needs to be personalized for what the goals are and how much time the person has to achieve the goal.”
It is always a good idea to consult with your doctor before starting
a new physical routine, but once you are ready, here are a few
pointers:

1. Set specific and realistic goals on an individual basis. Be as detailed as possible and assess your goals regularly to make sure you are staying on track. Don't say, “I want to lose 10 pounds.” Be more precise. “I want to lose 10 pounds within 3 months. I will do this by walking for 20 minutes 5 days a week.”
2. Surround yourself with supportive people. Talk to a trainer at the gym or join forces with a friend who wants to make changes as well. When others are aware of your goals they will want to help you achieve them, and you'll always have someone to turn to on those days you feel like giving up.
3. Change your routine. Sticking to one physical activity can become boring, and if you're bored you might be tempted to quit. Try joining a class or switching machines to keep your
routine fresh and challenging.
4. Reward yourself. When you achieve one of your goals treat yourself to something special. Buy an outfit to show off your new shape, get a new haircut or have a night out on the town. You've worked hard and deserve some personal recognition!

Millennium Fitness for Women is located at 21 Seaway Drive in Welland. Call
905-735-2112 or visit www.millenniumfitnessforwomen.ca for more information.