Through Share Your Story, Tanya uses an apt metaphor to describe her efforts to get in shape:

"In 2004 I couldn't walk around the block because I was so overweight and physically inactive. So, I stepped it up and lost 92 pounds. Now, I exercise six days every week. I strength train three days a week and hike three days a week. Now, I am always looking for a new mountain to climb. The view at the top is always worth the effort."

Shared on May 7, 2008 Share your story

Raynel has found the right physical activity - yoga - to help with a health condition:

"I have always tried to be physically fit but when I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, I had to step it up and in a way I did not expect. I was struggling with just walking at the time, so I decided to try something else altogether.

"I had heard from a friend that there was a awesome yoga teacher not far from my house. I enrolled and began a yoga practice that would last 14 years and is still continuing today. I am so grateful to have yoga in my life. Today, I have my colitis under control and I do my yoga and I walk to keep healthy. It's a great life!"

Shared on May 7, 2008 Share your story

Verlinda reminds us about Blue Points, the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina incentive program for physical activity:

"I starting working at First Citizens Bank in Raleigh in 2004. Shortly after that I was told about BCBSNC 'Blue Points,' and I was truly amazed and surprised to find that BCBSNC was such an advocate and supporter of exercise and fitness."

Shared on May 7, 2008 Share your story

In less than half a year, Faye has lost a lot of weight, improved her health and is feeling great about it. A steady program of walking has done the trick. Here's her success story:

"I have been walking on a treadmill or elliptical since Thanksgiving week 2007 at the gym and have dropped 58 pounds in those 5 1/2 months!

"Introducing physical activity to my schedule has made such a difference in my appearance with the weight loss, but just as important, the feeling of being healthier has been my reward. I have dropped 6 sizes in my clothing and my joints rarely ache anymore. I was so tired of achy knees. I weighed in the 160s when I was in high school 35 years ago.

"So, I am about 25 pounds away from reaching that goal. I can truly see the light at the end of the tunnel, and having an hour of physical activity five to six days a week is helping me get there!"

Shared on May 7, 2008 Share your story