Every since I was a youngster, I was always active. Not the best at coordinated sports, but active. I was on the track team in high school and through college I found the neighborhood gym and so began my fitness lifestyle that I still maintain today. I used to wonder why not many of my sisters would work out. When I questioned them about it; it was always said jokingly but it seemed hair was the culprit. I never let my hair prevent me from maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but could definitely relate because at the time my hair was relaxed. Thank goodness for up do hairstyles and beautiful hair adornments. That was how I worked out for years.
When I came across an article in the New York Times about the U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Regina M. Benjamin stating “the reason why African American women don't exercise is over fears that perspiration will ruin their hairstyle”. I felt saddened and thought back to those joking conversations. Fast forward to now. I regularly exercise at the fitness center at my job and so did Suzanne. At the time I met her she wore her hair relaxed and I could see that after a workout her hair was different. This did not stop her and she definitely gained my respect. Then one fine day Suzanne cane to the gym sporting a TWA. Check out her story.
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