Janet Silvera, Senior Gleaner Writer

Mary-Kay Mullally and her children, Ryan and Tara. - Contributed

WESTERN BUREAU:

At 47, she defied the myth that optimal physical fitness is not possible over a certain age.

"My commitment is to empower others to do this at whatever age," declares Jamaican-born, California- based Mary-Kay Mullally.

The celebrated author, personal health, wellness, cleansing and weight management coach is scheduled to unveil her 10 secrets to a vibrant well-being at the Wata Rose Hall Triathlon and Wellness Festival, October 23-26, in Montego Bay.

"Those in attendance will be given different tips on how to get to that level," she revealed to Flair.

Hosting runs

Mullally will host two runs for beginners at 5 a.m. for two mornings at the Cinnamon Hill Golf Course during the festival. "Most people think that running is hard-core, but it really isn't. Anybody in good health can begin a running programme and enjoy its physical and emotional benefits," she said.

The lean mother of two, who stands at five feet, three inches tall and tips the scale at 115 lb, notes that everywhere she goes, people want to know her secret to keeping fit and trim.

She gave Flair a sneak preview into the strategy she plans to use to transform lives at the wellness festival. Her 10 secrets will cover visualisation of the end result and how it makes you feel; trusting yourself and listening to your inner voice; taking action on your goals and dreams; starting from where you are and replacing poor habits with better ones.

"I want participants to set goals for themselves and tap into the feeling they will have when they achieve that goal," she explained, adding that the mind can't tell the difference between dream and reality.

According to her, it is even more important to listen to the inner voice; "You don't have to see the whole staircase to take the next step."

Greatest accomplishment

Rich in experience, she transformed herself from being over-stressed and overweight to being in the best shape of her life in her 40s. She has run five marathons since turning 40, including the prestigious Boston Marathon. While she experienced great personal satisfaction from this, she wanted to help others to take action on their fitness and health. In 2004, she founded Step Up For Life, a beginner's half marathon training programme for women. She has inspired hundreds of women to cross the finish line of local half marathons, and more recently, as a coach, she has helped many more men and women take control of their health. Mullally says her greatest accomplishment to date has been the difference that she has made in the lives of people across the country and through them, their families and communities.

Janet.silvera@gleanerjm.com