Member of the Month

Jennifer LaBonte 

AggieFit solutes Jennifer LaBonte as the "Member of the Month" for March. A senior Nursing major at NMSU, LaBonte recognizes the importance of physical activity and how it affects her chosen field of study.

As a dedicated and unwavering patron of the Activity Center and numerous AggieFit services, LaBonte enjoys pursuing a workout regimen of combined cardiovascular and strength training. She is also a steadfast participant of numerous weekly aerobics classes offered by AggieFit.

"The free classes at the AC provide a perfect fit for me. I receive cardio and strength training benefits, plus they are fun!  These classes are the most time efficient in regards to conducting a workout, plus, they offer so many classes that I can never have an excuse for not working out," LaBonte stated during her Member of the Month interview.

By taking part in most aerobics classes offered by AggieFit, LaBonte appreciates their challenge and variety.

"My favorite classes are Cardio Combo and Bootcamp Fitness. These are a few of the most challenging classes I have ever been to. I love the high intensity and the instructors are very motivating. If I had the time, I would be in those classes all the time!" 

An avid exerciser and competitor, LaBonte stated that she has been active the majority of her life as she grew up playing soccer and competing in Track & Field and Cross Country within her Middle School and High School years. To add to her consistency, she began utilizing the AC within her first semester at NMSU. The following year, she became a mainstay within the AggieFit aerobics classes and has been attending the classes ever since. 

"I have always believed that staying active and exercising is essential to being healthy.  Being in Nursing school has made me even more motivated to stay active.  I have learned the benefits of staying active, as well as the health problems a sedentary lifestyle can create," LaBonte said. 

While sustaining a busy schedule provided by the rigors of her required Nursing curriculum, LaBonte has not encountered any road-blocks in regards to finding motivation and staying consistent with her practices. 

"For me, finding what I love to do also motivates me to stay consistent; for example I found the classes I love most and stay consistent with those." 

When asked of any advice she could provide those currently engaged in an exercise program or for those on the verge of beginning one, LaBonte was very knowledgeable with her response:

"Be persistent and maintain consistency.  Set realistic goals and start slow. Don't expect results overnight or within a week.  Find something you enjoy, and don't be afraid to try something new!  You may discover you enjoy something you thought you would hate!  Also, invite a friend or tag along with a friend who works out often.  Having someone to stay accountable to is really important when beginning a workout program." 

Know someone who deserves to be recognized? If you would like to nominate an individual affiliated with the NMSU community for the AggieFit "member of the month", please contact: smeyer@nmsu.edu or 646-5178