My name is Katelyn Malvese and I am a senior at Medfield High School. For my senior project, I am creating a physical therapy regime and researching information regarding connective tissue disorders. By doing this, I hope to get stronger, preparing me for college and life beyond!

In this town and in the media, there is a lot of emphasis on being fit. Social media and websites are filled with "10 easy workouts" or "15-minute exercises" to get you strong and slim-fit. Being fit is important for your health, as well as just being able to live your life to the fullest. Although these tips and tricks are helpful, they only reach out to a niche audience.

Connective tissue disorders are more common than one may think, and there are more than one type, all with different criteria, levels, and regulations. In my case, exercise seems nearly impossible. Simply living is a risk, but with workouts specifically, the rules are constraining: no contact, no impact, no repetitive movement, no heavy lifting (heavy qualifies as more than 5-10 lbs), and more. So that means no big weights, no running, no jumping rope, no crazy workout machines - seemingly, no nothing.

For my senior project, and in the interest of me getting strong for college and the rest of my life, I am making a physical therapy regime, crafted specifically for me and my connective tissue disorder. I will research the condition and be advised by a trainer, creating my own plan for health and strength.