Tinnia chooses just the right music from her Pandora playlist before setting out on her regular walk around her neighborhood. Gospel music is her genre of choice and sets the mood for her workout. She began walking three years ago and most recently added regular boot camp attendance to her exercise routine. Tinnia believes her walks have helped her step up her overall health.

Did anything prompt you to take control of your health?

I don’t have any health issues or concerns. I just decided to start walking about three or four years ago and I liked it. I liked the results and the way I feel when I exercise by walking. I started out walking five days a week, around 30 minutes a day.

How far do you typically walk now and what keeps you motivated to continue?

Now I walk 3 to 4 miles per walk. I also incorporate a little jogging with the walking now. I generally walk around my neighborhood and track how far I have gone on my watch. I listen to gospel music while walking and just enjoy my time.

What other forms of exercise do you participate in?

A family member introduced me to boot camp, and I started doing that in May 2021. Ever since then, I go to boot camp three days a week instead of walking. On the days I don’t go to boot camp, I walk.

When do you exercise – before or after work?

I do everything after work. Boot camp is Tuesday and Thursday, and also on Saturday mornings. When I walk, I also do that after work. I’m not necessarily doing this for weight loss; I just want to stay healthy. Boot camp is teaching me to build muscle and I enjoy the weight lifting part of that activity.

Have you changed any of your daily routines to maintain your health?

Yes – I always park at the end of the employee parking lot. I also take the stairs once I’m inside the building.

What is your favorite healthy meal?

Salad! It’s my go-to that I bring for lunch. I put cucumbers, boiled egg, cranberries, and almonds on a bed of fresh spinach. For dressing, I use a little vinaigrette. I’ll also have a smoothie in the morning for breakfast before leaving for work.

What do you eat to treat yourself?

My weakness is sweet tea. I can hold off on sweets and junk food, but sweet tea is my guilty pleasure. McDonald’s sweet tea is my favorite.

What advice would you give someone who is just starting out with exercise – maybe with walking the way you did?

We all have to start somewhere, so don’t give up. It’s never too late to start!