Optimistic outlook.

We bring you our last and most awaited story in this series. The end of our Marathon list of 30 inspirational stories is signed off by one such woman who has transformed and touched the lives of many. 

This is the story of a woman, who as a young girl in her twenties had a vision, fire in her belly and a zeal to chase those dreams. She was a management graduate with a high flying corporate job who changed her course to turn into a successful entrepreneur. 

Yes, you are reading about none other than Ritu Shah.

X-Er-size established in 2002, is the brain child of Ritu.

Her dream was to create a space for women to enjoy fitness with the latest scientific methods , a space for them to express freely , make long lasting bonds , create a social circle and instill confidence in them..Something unheard of and untried...

I would undoubtedly say she achieved more than just that .. 

These 29 inspirations we have read about have all been given this opportunity and platform  to  inspire us because of her vision.She has touched  all our lives whether it was to run tht marathon ,get rid of PCod or Thyroid , combat muscle dystrophy and cancer or loose oodles of  flab or even become successful professionals like me ,it's her hand that made it happen.

She is passionate about fitness and has kept herself abreast with all the latest fitness courses whether it's Reebok, ACSM, Schwinn ,Pino Pilates or ACE ,she has 35+ certifications..and regularly attends fitness conventions.

She started with 20 members and today Xersize boasts of 1000 plus clientele ...(yes we are a big family)       Nothing deters her spirit ,whether it's a muscle pull or a spine surgery. She's back in action in no time .. A woman with a foresight ,who has set her sights on the next big goal  .. A person who gives you a boost and keeps u believing that the world is your apple and nothing can stop you..

She does a perfect balancing act between her teenage daughter ,home and her ever expanding business which to her is just like her daughter which she calls "her baby ".What distinguishes Ritu from most people is her zest for life and her drive to achieve her goals.

Anyone who speaks or listens to her will always have something to take back with them . 

Her motto in life - Positive thinking and self belief are two most essential workouts to keep you in good shape!

( written by Nirmala D'souza )