Briefly introduce yourself and share a bit about your background.
My name is Clay Davis, and I’ve been working at UA for over 20 years. My wife and I love playing and walking with our dogs. They keep us on a schedule and keep us moving.
Describe the starting point of your journey and the factors that led to this decision.
I didn’t really think I needed to do any “health stuff” for the longest time, until, some coworkers convinced me to get my checkup with WellBama years ago. I’m scared of needles, and I thought they would stick me with a big long needle to take my blood, so I avoided it for the longest. But, with their encouragement, I did it, and realized that my blood pressure was not at a good point…and if I didn’t change things, it would just get worse and worse…so that is actually what prompted me to take a step back and make a positive health change.
What were some challenges or obstacles you encountered during your wellness journey?
I didn’t grow up being very athletic….sports were always intimidating because of being uncoordinated. So, for the longest time, I didn’t do any exercise because I just figured it would be like playing a sport. It was really co-workers who got me into WellBAMA years ago. Once I got into the first group exercise program, and saw how supportive everyone was, it really made it fun. I’ve continued exercising and wellness programs ever since then.
Which wellness practices or habits have you incorporated into your routine?
I do weightlifting/Pilates daily, walk the dogs a few miles each day. I eat oatmeal every morning to help with cholesterol, eat at least one apple a day to help with fiber, and I’ve tried to intentionally eat more vegetables.
What specific wellness program has had a positive impact on you?
Couch to 5K has had the most positive impact on me. That was the first group exercise program I did and it was really the catalyst that got me motivated to do more and more exercise.
Read more inspiring wellness stories, tips for maintaining a healthy routine, and meet all the UA Spotlight on Wellness employees from this year.