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iFIT Member Highlight: Holly Boeckman

Back in August 2020, we featured several members’ stories in honor of Tommy Rivs Puzey's fight against cancer. There were so many stories that emerged for #TeamRivs, and we feel grateful for so many who shared their experiences and struggles.

There was one story that touched us in particular, and that’s the story of iFIT member Holly Boeckman. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Holly was gracious enough to share details of her journey.

When were you diagnosed?

I was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer in March of 2020 at the age of 50.

How was the cancer initially detected?

I first found a lump in my armpit. I scheduled a mammogram, then came in for an ultrasound, then a biopsy, then I received the news.

What happened when you received the news?

Having always been extremely active and healthy, I never considered the possibility of cancer. When the doctor came into the room, I saw the serious expression, and her hands were slightly shaking as she held my results paperwork. She didn’t have to say a word. I knew I had cancer. All I could think about was how to support my spouse and tell my family. It was going to devastate all those around me.

What helped you get through the diagnosis and treatment?

Once you have a cancer diagnosis, there is a lot of waiting and wondering. You don’t get all of the answers or a clear treatment plan all at once, and that was especially true while trying to navigate the health system during COVID-19. So, as I’ve always done, I turned to exercise and iFIT. While on my bike and treadmill, I was able to think through my diagnosis and burn off a lot of stress. I knew surgery and treatment awaited me, and the best thing for my body and mind was to stay in the best shape possible.

“You learn to appreciate your health and the simple ability to walk without gasping. Everyone is stronger than they realize. You just take it one step at a time.”

What was your treatment process? What obstacles did you face?

I went through a partial mastectomy, followed by 6 weeks of daily radiation. After the mastectomy, I asked my surgeon how soon I could start running again. He said to start slowly and listen to my body. I was overly anxious and ran 7 miles on my treadmill. It probably wasn’t the best idea physically, but mentally it made me feel like I’d still get back to my old self. The radiation was much harder on my body. I permanently lost about 20% of my lung capacity, but at the end of the treatments, a nurse told me that to get my energy back, I’d need to fight for it. I started by getting back on my bike with iFIT, eventually working my way back to running.

How are you doing now?

I’m still building back strength and have one more surgery ahead of me, but I’m back to daily exercise and that’s the best elixir for me, both mentally and physically.

What message would you like to share with others that might be in a similar situation?

When you get unexpected, terrifying news of a cancer diagnosis, your whole world changes. When you face your mortality, you truly get back to the basics of life. You learn to appreciate your health and the simple ability to walk without gasping. Everyone is stronger than they realize. You just take it one step at a time.

How long have you been an iFIT member?

I've been a member for about one year.

What's your favorite thing about iFIT?

It’s a wonderfully supportive community. During this time of COVID-19, it really helped me keep a feeling of connectedness with the trainers and participants. The various series took me around the world and kept me entertained and engaged during each workout.

Who is your favorite iFIT Trainer?

Tommy Rivs Puzey, hands down. He doesn’t know it, but he’s gotten me through a lot of my cancer journey. I think about what he’s going through every time I run with him now.

What’s your favorite series?

My very first series was Tommy’s Costa Rica 5K Training Series, pre-diagnosis. Then, his Iberian Beginner Running Series helped me get back much of my strength.

Which machine do you own?

I own the Nordictrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle and the NordicTrack T 8.5 S Treadmill.

How do you stay motivated?

When you go through a time when you’re physically unable to exercise, you definitely appreciate that freedom when it comes back to you. I like to remember that I'll never regret the workouts I do...only the ones I don’t.

Disclaimer: This blog post is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. The above information should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Please consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet, sleep methods, daily activity, or fitness routine. iFIT assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage sustained by any recommendations, opinions, or advice given in this article. Always follow the safety precautions included in the owner’s manual of your fitness equipment.

Opinions of iFIT members are not necessarily the opinions of iFIT.

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People Need People: The Positive Effects of Socializing

As human beings, we are social creatures by nature. Instinctively, we don’t like feeling alone, and our bodies and brains actually function better when we are surrounded by others. We are basically wired to be social. If you were to google “why humans need humans” or anything along those lines, you’ll find a plethora of articles explaining why social connections and friendships are vital to our health and well-being. Outside of our family units, when we have friends we can lean on, laugh with, cry with, and talk to, we are nourishing ourselves physically, mentally, and emotionally. We need that connectivity not only to survive, like this article suggests, but to thrive. Whether you’re someone who prefers to have just a few really close pals, or you’re a social butterfly with a lot of friends, at the end of the day, we need those relationships. Here are the top three reasons we need friendships in our lives! Friendships improve our health Research has shown that having strong social connections is vital to our health. For starters, it can reduce stress levels, ward off depression and suicide, lower the risk of dementia, heart disease, and cancer, as well as boost our immune system...and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. It’s also easier to exercise and live a healthier lifestyle when you have the support of friends and family. Friends extend our life expectancy Aside from improving our overall health, maintaining friendships can also add years to our lives—just like regular exercise, healthy eating habits, and not smoking. Multiple studies have found that people who have positive relationships with their family, friends, and community are happier and tend to live longer. Some studies have even gone as far to conclude that social belongingness is just as important as physical survival needs, such as food and shelter. Friends make life more fun This might not be a mind-blowing revelation, but friends bring an abundant amount of happiness to our lives. While I’m sure you can find enjoyment doing certain things solo, I’d argue that most things are more fun when you do it with someone else. There’s an unexplainable joy that comes from sharing experiences with people we care about. Studies have shown, including this one conducted back in 2011, that having meaningful social relationships affects our neurobiological endogenous opioid system (think endorphins), triggering the part of the brain that makes us feel good. Simply put, connecting and interacting with our friends gives us happy feelings. Ever caught up with an old friend, then felt really good afterwards? Those are your endorphins kicking in, telling you that what you just did is healthy for your emotional and physical health! So, no matter what stage of life you’re in, make it a priority to get out and do things with your friends. Whether it’s a quick phone call or grabbing lunch, keep your friends close and remember to have fun!