Category: Inspirational Stories

Hey,
I want to introduce you to an awesome lady named Kathy!  Kathy is Ms. Consistency and rarely misses a day of boot camp.  As a result she’s seen incredible results in strength gains and losing those stubborn inches.  In addition, her fitness journey has impacted her daughter and has inspired her to lose weight and get stronger as well.

So Kathy, how long have you been exercising consistently?
I’ve been consistent for almost a year and a half.

What influenced your decision to get dedicated and be consistently active?
Last year I did an AdvoCare 24-day Challenge.  The results motivated me to step it up another notch to be healthier.   A friend of mine introduced me to boot camp.  I started going three days a week and eventually increased to six days a week.

What else other than boot camp do you do to stay active?
I work in the yard and around the house.  I occasionally go for walks and/or run.

What are some of your biggest barriers to staying active and how do you overcome those barriers?
One of the biggest barriers that I have staying active is being exhausted after a long day at work.  However, if I just show up for boot camp I feel so much better.  So showing up is the key.

Since becoming consistent with your exercise, what’s the biggest difference you see in yourself physically and mentally?  
The biggest difference I see physically is that I am stronger, I can wear a smaller size and that I have lost several inches. Mentally, I feel great.  I don’t like to miss class.

How would you classify your current eating habits?
My current eating habits are good most of the time.  However, if I want a piece of cake, then I have a piece of cake.

Do you have a specific diet/eating strategy that you follow?
I don’t have a particular diet/eating strategy but I do try to limit processed food and simple carbs.

Do you have a favorite go to healthy meal or food?
My favorite go to healthy meal is zucchini spaghetti.

Do you have advice for someone contemplating starting a fitness/weight loss journey or advice for someone struggling to stay motivated?
My advice would be just doing it.  Starting anything is mind over matter.    I will say if you are struggling to stay motivated due to a plateau, try an AdvoCare 24 Day Challenge.  It will jump start your metabolism and clean any junk out of your system.  It worked for me.

Not only is Kathy consistent but she’s also a hard worker that pumps up the intensity every boot camp session.  I want to thank Kathy for sharing her story and providing a few take ways.  Number one, it’s always easy to take the day off because you’re tired, but the truth is you will feel better after the workout.  Number two, never deprive yourself.  If you want a piece of cake have a small piece of cake.  Deprivation leads to binging and binging leads to more weight gain.  Number three, when you hit a plateau always keep your eyes and mind open to other things that may be able to help you bust through and achieve more.

Inspiring Others to Accept the Challenge
Jeff

Hey,
Are people out there who will drag themselves out of bed at 5:30 in the morning to go to the gym and workout?  When I opened boot camp that was a question I had.  After two months the answer was YES!  The largest class of the day most days is the 5:30 class.  These people are some of the most disciplined people I know.  One of these folks is a fabulous lady named Kelly.  The first year I was open I could count on Kelly’s truck being in the parking lot waiting on my sleepy butt to open the door every morning.   As a result Kelly looks incredible and is super fit.  I asked Kelly if she would share her fitness story.

So Kelly how long have you been working out?

I’ve been working out for about 2 years.

What influenced your decision to start strength training and continue to be consistent?

I started gaining weight and running alone wasn’t helping.  I started going to boot camp and really enjoyed the people I met there.

What do you do to stay active?

I pretty much do boot camp.  However, I like running with my dogs when it’s nice outside.  We do long runs together.

What are some of the barriers you’ve encountered to staying active?

I don’t really don’t have any barriers because ultimately they are just excuses.  I don’t make excuses.  I recently switched jobs and I now miss boot camp on days I work 12 hour shifts.  However, on my days off I make up for it by doing multiple boot camp classes and running with my dogs.

How would you classify your eating habits?

My eating habits are good.

Tell us about your diet/eating strategy?

We my husband George and myself no longer eat fast food and very little bread.

Do you have a favorite go to meal?

I’ll try anything healthy.  I love cooking new things that benefit our health.  I really don’t have a favorite food or go to food.

Do you have advice for someone contemplating starting a fitness and weight loss journey or advice for someone struggling with motivation?

If you’re thinking about doing it, JUST DO IT!  Never quit and always remember why you started.  I’ve found it’s not that difficult to find someone to workout with, and working out with others helps with motivation.  Remember YOU ARE STRONG and capable of getting stronger every day.

I want to thank Kelly for sharing her story with us.  The things I take away from Kelly are three points.  Number one, discipline is the key to success and meeting goals.  Number two, there’s no such thing as a barrier only excuses.  Eliminate the excuses and you will reach your goals every time.  Number three, JUST DO IT!  Take action every day and work your plan.  If you don’t have a plan and goals, right now is the time to sit down and develop both.  Build your plan today and begin taking action!

Inspiring Others to Take The Challenge,
Jeff

Hey,
Most people don’t think about it, but if you don’t do something to improve your strength on a daily basis you slowly lose that strength.  Day by day you slowly get weaker and weaker not even noticing the effect until your asked to do something that requires strength and boom, you figure out how weak you’ve become.  Today I want to introduce you to a wonderful lady named Sheryl.  Sheryl works in the medical field and see’s first hand every day the effects on people when they lose strength and their ability to take care of themselves.

So Sheryl, how long have you been exercising consistently?

Almost a year, I began in October last year.

What influenced your decision to get dedicated and be consistently active?

I have known for some time that I needed to be doing something for myself but fitting it into my schedule was a challenge.  One day my son said “mom, I bet you can’t do a cartwheel….” I thought nothing of it since I used to be able to do those no problem!  It was a wake-up call for me that my arms gave out and I fell.  I was shocked at how weak I had become without realizing it.  I decided then that if I wanted to grow older in the best way possible that I had to take better care of myself and that included becoming physically stronger.

What all do you do to stay active?  

I have always been a fairly active person and am up for almost anything when time permits but on a consistent basis I have to say yard work ( we have a lot of that ), and walking.  I also try to always take the stairs and get up from the desk at work and move around as much as possible.

What are some of your biggest barriers to staying active and how do you overcome those barriers?

Time and energy! There are always commitments whether work or family related that have to be balanced.  Another is energy; at the end of a long day it is so tempting to go home and take care of the dinner, family etc. and then just sit down.  I have just tried to think of working out as an extension of the workday that I must take care of and with that mindset I have been able to stay on track.

Since becoming consistent with your exercise, what’s the biggest difference you see in yourself physically and mentally?

Physically I’m so much stronger. When I began I clearly remember how difficult it was. I have progressed throughout the year and little by little I have become stronger and have much more stamina.  Mentally I feel as though I’m doing something good for myself that just makes sense.  I work in the medical field and I see the impact that diet and exercise play in the quality of your life as you age.  I don’t want to be 20 or 30 years down the road and say I wish I had taken better care of myself.

How would you classify your current eating habits?

My eating habits are fairly good with a little bad mixed in with it.  I’ll just say there is room for improvement……

Do you have a specific diet/eating strategy that you follow?  

I really just try to make healthier choices on a more routine basis.  If I think “diet” I automatically feel that I’m depriving myself and want to eat more.  I just think of choosing more wisely and that works best for me.  I’m the same with working out, when doing sets I always count backwards because in some silly way that seems to put me closer to that goal of finishing.

Do you have a favorite go to healthy meal or food?

I’m really trying to be conscious of getting enough protein these days so I try to add that to whatever I may be eating.  Favorites would include salads and any kind of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Do you have advice for someone contemplating starting a fitness/weight loss journey or advice for someone struggling to stay motivated?

I hate giving advice, but I will say this.  The key to staying consistent comes down to three things.  1.  Make it enjoyable.  2.  Make it convenient to your schedule.  3.  Do something that will show you results from all your hard work. I want to thank boot camp and all its members for helping me improve my strength and my health.

I want to personally thank Sheryl for sharing her fitness story with us today.  It’s been a pleasure getting to know her and watching her improve her strength every day.  If you see that yourself or someone you love has lost strength and can’t do some of the things they use to do, introduce them to strength training and how fun and easy it can be.  You might even come to boot camp and find a bunch of friendly folks who love to help others achieve their goals.

Inspiring You to Take the Challenge,
Jeff

Hey,
Today I want to introduce you to Jerry.  Jerry is one of a kind and although I’ve given up on his diet he is one of the most fit and strongest at Boot Camp.  When I asked Jerry to tell his story he asked me multiple times if I was sure I wanted his story because his go to meal is and I quote “My go to meal is Denny s grand slam 2 bacon, 2 eggs, 2 toast and 2 hash browns.   Don’t forget the cheese in the eggs, the hot sauce, butter, jelly, and ketchup. UMMM.”  If you want the truth just ask Jerry, but be ready for an answer you may not like.

So Jerry, When did you decide to get fit?

A little over a year ago I was in the pool at OBU wrestling with a group of boys at church camp.  After a short period of time it became apparent I was going to lose.  Ha!Ha! I had to hide behind the women in the group for protection.  It was then I decided I needed to get in shape.  You know the whole “Rocky” thing, NOT.  One of the guys in my men’s group invited me to work out on base.  I’ve never really cared for exercise but thought I would give it a try.  Now I’ve been training at Boot Camp for more than a year.

How has consistent exercise helped you?

I’ve come to the conclusion that I don’t want to be small, just in better shape, stronger and have more endurance.  I have lost just over two inches in my waist and my wife tells me she notices I am leaner with more muscle definition.  Working out daily has increased my ability to sleep six to eight hours a night and lowered my stress and hostility.

Was there something specific that made you decide to get serious about your health?

Now that I’m closer to 50 than 40, I’ve noticed a lot of the older guys I’ve listened to my whole life are really suffering.  I’ve heard them say over and over “When I retire”.  Well, now that they are retiring, they are too fat or weak to do the things they were always going to do “when they retired”.  I pray every day that GOD will not take away the things I love to do.  GOD always meets us where we are but requires us to do our part.   Now, I’m doing my PART to get healthier and keep moving.

Tell me about your diet and don’t hold anything back?

As far as diet, that’s a laugh!!  I have tried to eat more salads and green veggies and cut out the extra sugar and sodas. Well maybe not the sodas so much.  I pretty much eat what I want, when I want, and I am not so much into portion control.  We eat buffet at least once a week and I love David’s double burger, all you can eat fries and an ice cream cone for desert.

What would you tell others who are contemplating starting a fitness program?

I can definitely tell a difference in my strength and ability, even though I haven’t lost much weight or gained a ton of endurance.  It is really important to me to “keep on keeping on.”  I’ve learned getting fit only takes a little time every day, but it’s important to be consistent.  Besides; like the title of my favorite story “What is Time to a Pig”.

I want to thank Jerry for sharing his fitness story.  Jerry gives all of us an important insight.  We all know those folks who have great plans for retirement only to see them unable to do those things when retirement finally arrives.  You have to do the work in your 30’s, 40’s, and 50’s to see reap the benefits in your 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and beyond.  I promise if God is willing I will still be knocking out squats and push-ups while leading Boot Camp when I’m 90.  In addition, I will continue to pray for Jerry’s diet and at least he does take his Turmeric.

Inspiring Others to Take the Challenge,
Jeff

Hey,

Today I want to introduce you to a very special lady, Laketa.  Laketa was one of my first boot camp members and early on we spent many mornings together just the two of us working out.  Looking at my 5:30 class today it’s hard to believe it was ever that small.  Laketa and her husband found out they were expecting their first child around September/October 2015-time frame.  Laketa continued to train right up to about two weeks before she delivered a beautiful and healthy little girl Eden.  Today I want to tell Laketa’s fitness/pregnancy story.

So, how long did you consistently exercise before becoming pregnant?
I’ve been exercising for number of years.  Being in the military, it’s part of my job to remain physically fit.  So I take it very seriously.

What influenced your decision to continue to work out even while pregnant?
Since joining Expect Results Fitness I’ve become stronger and faster which helped me with PT tests.  I didn’t want to lose everything that I had been working towards.  Initially I was just going through the motions, and realized that I could continue with the workouts, and modify the exercises if needed.  My goal was to exercise at least 4 days a week.  I knew that it was important to keep moving throughout my pregnancy.

What were some of your biggest barriers to staying active while pregnant and how did you overcome those barriers?
I love the 0530 boot camp class because it’s a great start for my day, and gives me energy throughout the day.  My first trimester, there were mornings that I started to feel nauseous or was too tired, but when I rolled out of bed and made the drive from Searcy I ALWAYS felt better.  With morning workouts, the most challenging part is getting out of bed, after that it’s easy because after a good workout you feel ready to conquer the day.  Another barrier was that my doctor didn’t want me to do any exercises after the first trimester, that required me to be on my back.  However, all exercises can be modified to accommodate pregnancy.

How did being fit and eating right impact your pregnancy/delivery?
Being fit and eating right helped me with every area of my pregnancy.  I didn’t have morning sickness, swelling, high blood pressure, or excessive weight gain because I stayed active.  Bootcamp helped me build endurance that I needed for delivery of my baby girl, Eden.

How has being fit impacted your post-delivery?
I’m so glad that I was able to stick with a fitness regimen because it kept my weight down.  Two weeks after my delivery I was back to my original size and weight, and recovered a lot faster than I expected.

Do you have advice for other expectant mothers or women who are planning to have baby’s in the near future?
Every pregnancy is different so listen to your body first; if something doesn’t feel right stop and seek advice from a medical professional.  Don’t be too hard on yourself if you are moving slower, lifting less weight, or can’t do all the exercises.  The important thing is continue being active and eat responsibly.  Staying healthy is the best thing that you can do for you and your baby.  Make it your goal to keep moving because it’s easier to maintain your fitness than trying to get it back.

What’s your next/future goals?
Now that I’m getting back to boot camp I plan on focusing on building back up my endurance and strength.  I’m looking forward to doing sprints, lifting heavy weights again, and building my core back up.

Laketa thanks for sharing your story with us.  You are an inspiration to expectant mom’s everywhere and just goes to show how important staying fit and strong is even when you’re pregnant.  We all look forward to seeing you and pictures of Eden when you get back to Boot Camp.
Inspiring Others to Take the Challenge,
Jeff

Hey,
I want to introduce you to a fabulous lady named Kristy.  Kristy has been attending Boot Camp consistently since February and has gotten considerably stronger and has lost close to 30 lbs.

So Kristy why did you start your fitness/weight loss journey?

I started working out because my daughter, Markell approached me and asked me to start going to boot camp with her.  I really felt that was her way to ask me to be healthier for my family and be active for my grandbabies.

What does your fitness routine look like?

I try to come do boot camp at least 5 times a week to stay active.  And I’ve taken up walking for about an hour at least 2-3 evenings a week.

What are some of the barriers you’ve encountered and how have you overcome those barriers?

Since I’ve been working out there are two major barriers.  1.  My work schedule doesn’t always cooperate.  Sometimes I work out of town or very early in the morning.  In those cases, I’ve committed to walking wherever I am and using the weight room at the hotel.  2. Finding a consistent workout partner.  I need accountability but my workout partner can’t always come as often as I do so sometimes I’m stuck motivating myself or hoping someone in class will help push me!  I’ve made some good friends just by coming to class and that helps!   I use social media as an accountability factor as well…I post pics, I put it out there that I’m doing this for myself and others just naturally support it and they help motivate.

Can you tell us about some of the changes you’ve seen so far in your short journey?

Since I’ve started I feel so much better.  Yes, I’ve lost some weight (almost 30 lbs.) and I’ve dropped 4 sizes but I also feel and see my muscle!  I am always flexing my arms and legs to show my husband how proud I am of the actual muscle lol!  I have a group of friends who meet once a year in January and I can’t wait to show them the new me…I’m shooting to be under 200 lbs. by January!

How would you gauge the current status of your diet?

My current eating habits are good…could probably be better but they were definitely a lot worse before I started this journey!

Do you have diet a strategy/plan and are there still things you’re working on?

I am trying to cut out bad carbs…no bread, pasta, rice or anything like that.  I pay attention to calories and sugar as well.  I am trying to stick to mostly protein and veggies.  I have actually adapted and learned to really like sauerkraut lol and stay as close to the food source as possible so I am trying to do that as well.  Portion control and eating from boredom are my problems…I’m still working on solving these problems!

Do you have a go to meal?

My go to meal is just chicken…when in doubt or family is eating something I can’t eat I just grill me up some chicken…I use either Cajun seasoning or lemon pepper.  It’s quick, easy, and flavorful!

Do you have advice for someone contemplating starting a fitness/weight loss journey?

My advice to others who are contemplating starting or not sure how to start would be JUST DO IT!!  Try something for a month before you decide it doesn’t work!  And I had to start slowly…if I had it in my head that I was “dieting”, I would’ve created a mental block and sabotaged myself.  So I had to start with the boot camp and establish my routine and then slowly work in the eating right.  I cut things out slowly so that I could establish a meal plan and develop some recipes that worked for me!  I LOVE food lol…I had to find meals I would still enjoy so that again I didn’t sabotage myself!  You asked me my ideal weight and I shot out a number but as I later said I am simply focusing on the “next 10 lbs.”.  It’s been many years since I’ve been under 200 lbs. so I don’t even know what to shoot for so I’m doing this to change my body, my energy level, and my overall health!  Not putting a number goal…just gonna keep working it and I’m certain I will continue to surprise myself and see what happens!!

That’s what worked for me…find what works for you and do it for yourself!!  I’m proud of the changes I’m making in myself and you will be too!

The take away from Kristy is three things.  First, stay committed to your goals and do something every day to move forward.  Even if your schedule is crazy find a way to do a 15-20-minute walk, do some push-ups and squats.  It’s not about how much you do it about building a habit and being consistent with that habit.  Second, celebrate the things you control.  Kristy is currently building muscle faster than she’s losing weight.  Don’t torment yourself with the scale, be proud of those guns you’ve built. Last, we all must follow our own course because no two people are the same.  Be happy with your journey and how YOUR changing

Thank you Kristy for sharing your story with all of us.

Inspiring Others With Your Stories,
Jeff

Hey,
Sometimes you decide to get fit because it’s the best example you can set for your family.  You can want other people around you to get fit, but doing it yourself is sometimes the best motivator.  Today I want to introduce you to Krystal a lady who works hard every day she workout and is always quick to help others as well.

So Krystal, how long have you been exercising consistently?

I’ve been working out consistently for about 2 1/2 years.

What influenced your decision to get consistent with an exercise program?

I decided to start working out to better myself and to feel better.  My husband is diabetic and my daughter has hypothyroidism, so I began educating myself as to what was best for them.  I decided it would be best for all of us to begin eating cleaner and healthy.

What do you do to stay active?

I enjoy all activities outside. Gardening, hunting, fishing, and working in my yard. 

What are some of the barriers you’ve come up against and how have you been an over comer?

Some of my biggest obstacles to staying fit are staying dedicated and determined. It’s easy to get busy during the day and to make excuses to not workout. Having a workout buddy to go with and keep me accountable helps me.

What’s the biggest difference you see in yourself since getting consistent?

I see a difference in my muscle tone and endurance.  I’ve gotten strong and more toned in the last year. I am easier going and feel less stressed since I began working out consistently.

How have you changed your diet?

I have cut out carbs and sugar, which has helped me tremendously.  I have fewer migraines now than I ever have!  I try to eat pretty clean, but occasionally splurge with some Buffalo Wild Wings (hot wings). But I still eat moderately, trying to never over eat.

What is your favorite go to meal?

My favorite healthy meal is homemade teriyaki chicken (made with honey, not sugar), zucchini, and brown rice. I also have a great no sugar, no flour oatmeal muffin recipe that I enjoy a few days a week. 

What advice do you have for individuals contemplating starting a fitness/weight loss program or someone struggling to maintain their current program?

If I gave anyone advice, it would be to step out of your comfort zone!  Don’t give up and be confident. Don’t allow the scales determine your success!  You may weigh the same or more, but so what as long as your clothes fit you better! Keep up the hard work and let the hard days push you harder!

Thanks to Krystal for sharing her story.  A couple of things Krystal said that I want everyone to think about.  Some days you have a bad day and think, “I’m too stressed and tired to work out today.”  Believe it or not that’s the best day to do some kind of work out.  Exercise is one of the best stress relievers we have.  The other take home message goes back to diet and the point she made about having less migraines.  I know I say this a lot but diet is the key to great health.  It begins and ends with the food we eat.  Be intentional with how you fuel your body.

Inspiring Others To Take The Challenge,
Jeff

Hey, Exercising regularly and eating right isn’t always about losing weight.  Sometimes it’s about maintaining your current health, getting stronger and helping support others.  I want to introduce you to the pound for pound strongest lady at Expect Results Fitness.So Rachel how long have you been exercising consistently? I’ve always struggled being consistent with exercise.  I would run because it was the only thing I knew how to do.  Even when I had a gym membership I would stay on an elliptical or on the treadmill because I was intimidated by other equipment.  I would occasionally attend Zumba class but I didn’t stay consistent with it.  I am proud to say since joining Expect Results Fitness in June of last year I have exercised regularly. What influenced your decision to get consistent? I’ve always wanted to be active and healthier and I remember a specific moment in my life where I was not happy with myself and that I needed to do something about it.  I know a lot of people think that I’m already “skinny” and that there’s nothing that I need to change, but being “skinny” doesn’t mean you’re fit and healthy and I wanted to be fit and healthy.  When my friend Cheryl recommended Expect Results Fitness I went and tried it.  I struggled at first, but at the same time I felt good after.  After going consistently for a few weeks and referring other people, someone asked me why I liked working out so much and I remember saying that it’s not like I like working out but rather the feeling I get after the workout.  The workouts continuously challenge me, everyone is supportive, and the feeling of accomplishment I get every time I go is what keeps me consistent.  Having a workout partner Brooke also helps me stay motivated. What all do you do to stay active? I go to boot camp 4-6 days per week and am currently training for a ½ marathon.  My best friend (Brooke) and I go for the occasional hike and run.  I run races in the area when I can and walk my dog Spencer.  I also go on runs with my husband Thomas. What are some of the barriers you encounter and how do you overcome those barriers? My biggest barriers are finding the time and staying motivated.  Having a full time job, being a full time student and everything in between makes it difficult to stay consistent.  Knowing what your day is going to look like and planning helps me.  In addition, having a back-up plan when your original plan falls apart is very important.  Finding what you enjoy doing and having great people around keeps me motivated.  Brooke my workout buddy keeps me on my toes about going to the gym consistently. Since becoming consistent with exercise what’s the biggest difference you see in yourself physically and mentally? Physically I feel stronger and mentally I am happier.  I also believe it helps me stay positive.  Boot Camp has been my therapy.  I know every time I go I won’t regret it and I will feel better than I did before. How would you classify your current eating habits? I would classify my eating habits as good.  I know they could be better but I always try to pick healthy options and I’ve also been trying new things that can be an alternative to a not so healthy snack.  I try to improve my diet one choice at a time. Do you have a diet strategy? I focus on portion control and finding healthy alternatives to guilty pleasures. Do you have a favorite go to meal? I love banana’s, it’s my go to pre-workout snack.  Oatmeal with dried cranberries and raisins are good as well.  After workout I enjoy banana and peanut butter smoothies I make myself. Do you have advice for someone contemplating starting a fitness journey or advice for someone struggling to stay consistent? Just go for it!  You will not regret it.  Find something you look forward to doing and surround yourself with great people who support you.  Find an accountability partner, remind yourself that change does not occur overnight, and every time you think about giving up focus on the reason you started in the first place. I would like to thank Rachel for sharing her story.  I love what she said about being skinny.  I’ve know lots of skinny people who are extremely unhealthy.  Thanks for reminding everyone that health is not a size it’s a state of being.   Total health is about being strong, aerobically fit and all about what you eat every day.  All three of these variables are within every persons control everyday dependent on the choices YOU make. Inspiring Others To Take The Challenge, Jeff

Hey, Allow me to introduce you to Monica one of the many teachers who attend Fitness Boot Camp. Monica started training with us about 9 months ago after being invited by her friend Gina. Monica’s worked extremely hard and has reshaped her body as a result. So Monica, what motivated you to become so dedicated to getting in shape? My decision to get dedicated and be consistent was the need for something new. I was tired of the same boring routine. When I completed my first week at Expect Results Fitness, I knew this was the place for me. I loved that my body was confused each day. I didn’t get bored. The atmosphere was amazing and encouraging. Thank you for the compliment. All the amazing people and the way they encourage each other is really what makes Fitness Boot Camp successful. Other than Boot Camp what else do you do to stay fit and healthy? Include everything from hiking to landscaping to jazzercise. I stay active by running the stairs at the high school once a week, complete several 5k’s a year, hike with my son and neighbors and I try to get in my 10,000 steps a day. Can you tell us about some of the barriers you run into on a routine basis and how you overcome those barriers? Some of my biggest barriers to stay active are the need for sleep, little time, and busy work schedule. Doing the school year, I had to push myself to wake up and work out at 5:30 in the morning. I’m not a morning person. I had energy to work with my 2nd grade boys and girls each day. I was sometimes too drained to work out after school. I made sure to dedicate 4 to 5 days to work out. During the summer, I’m able to work out and do some 2-a-days. I make sure to do 5 or 6 days during this summer. Since getting more consistent what are some of the differences you’ve seen in your physical and mental health? The biggest difference I see physically is the way my clothes fit. I can see my waist. My backside is lifted and rounder. That’s a plus! I feel stronger. I never thought that I would be lifting weights, doing weighted squats and deadlifting. I hated lunges but now we are friends. The biggest difference mentally is that I’m more alert. I am able to think clearer. I no longer have brain fog. How would you classify you diet? (Good, Bad or Ugly) My eating habits are pretty good. I completed The Clean Eatery for 4 weeks. It allowed me to eat foods that I normally wouldn’t touch. I enjoyed the program. I will now experiment with some of the new foods that I had with the program. I love a good salad with chicken! I do have a bad sweet tooth. I’ve had It, as long as, I can remember. I love candy and ice cream! I try to limit my intake of candy and ice cream. The struggle is real, when it comes to my sweet treats. Do you have a specific diet or eating strategy? I don’t have a specific diet. I have a hard time following a diet. I have commitment issues with diets. I just try to eat healthy. I eat mostly chicken, turkey, and fish. I rarely eat red meat. I do eat my veggies and fruit. I have greatly cut back on my breads and pastas. This had helped out my stomach a lot. I did participate in the veggie fasting the last part of the school year. I will probably start that up again, when school starts. What is your go to healthy meal of choice? My favorite go to healthy meal is a delicious salad. I love salads. Any kind of salad will work for me. Caesar salads are so yummy. Grilled chicken and strawberry salads are so refreshing. What advice do you have for someone contemplating starting a fitness journey or someone struggling to stay with their current fitness journey? The advice I could give someone contemplating starting a fitness/weight loss journey is to make the first step and just do it. You have to step out of your comfort zone. Forget about what people will think. Try something new and have fun. Give yourself some time and don’t be too hard on yourself. The weight won’t fall off in a week. It takes time to work it off but it will happen. The advice for someone struggling to stay motivated is to change up your routine. Work out at a different time. You may meet a new friend. Find an accountability partner. Buy yourself a new workout outfit or shoes. I always feel good in a new pair of workout pants. Thank you for sharing your current fitness journey with us Monica. Monica is the epitome of consistency and that’s the real key to losing weight and getting fit. Look at your schedule and determine the best way to lock fitness into your schedule. In addition, strength training builds muscle and changes your busy more than any other type of training. Monica has learned that the scale isn’t the best measure of success. The best measure of success is how your clothes fit. Buying new (smaller) clothes or fitting into some of your old clothes is the best measure of success! Inspiring Others To Take the Challenge, Jeff

Hey, Sometimes lifting weight or running may not be your thing. Doing something that’s enjoyable is an important part keeping you active and healthy.  Today I want to introduce you to Gina and let her tell you her fitness story.    So Gina how long have you been consistently active? I’ve been active for the past 4-5 years.  My number 1 love is Zumba.  I also attend Boot Camp with my husband and son and walk and jog as well.  But I really love all kinds of dancing like Salsa, Jazzercize, Dance Fitness, etc.  I love anything that lets me dance and break a sweat. I think doing what you love to do is important and will make you more consistent and help you stick with it for the long run.  Can you tell me what’s influenced you to stay active the past 4-5 years? Finding something that I really enjoy doing, and then realizing that I feel good after working up a sweat. But honestly, I am not 100% dedicated. I struggle every day with excuses to not workout.  Even though I feel better, I still have a daily internal struggle to get moving. I am very thankful and blessed to have a husband, son and friends that help keep me motivated and on track. You mentioned that you struggle every day.  Can you tell me about some of the barriers you face and overcome to keep you on track? Some of my biggest barriers to staying active include: my work schedule, lack of sleep, not enough hours in the day, and that inner child that is lazy and rebellious. My two biggest supporters (Fred and Trevor) really work hard to keep me on track. I am praying that one day I will catch the bug and help motivate someone else to exercise. I think consistent exercise is more important to your total health than just about weight loss.  Can you tell me about how consistent exercise has helped both your physical health and mental health?  Since becoming more active, I am able to move and not get tired or out of breath. The biggest difference is mental – I have suffered from anxiety and depression- and exercise really helps to lift your spirits. I am still a bit anxious at times, but my mental health has definitely improved. Let’s talk about diet for a minute.  When it comes to health diet is probably equal to or more important than exercise.  How would you classify your current diet? My eating habits are in that gray area between good and bad. Our household is trying to eat a healthy diet 80% of the time… but we do have a few off days. Do you have a specific diet strategy and what is your go to healthy meal? I rarely drink soda. I rarely eat bread. I try to stick with veggies and meat… but sometimes those pesky carbs find their way onto my plate.  My go to meal is a salad with Romaine, spinach, feta, cranberries, green apple and grilled chicken… with a raspberry vinaigrette. So, do you have advice for someone contemplating starting a fitness journey or for someone struggling to stay on course? I would say, just START! That’s the hardest part. Then I would say, find a friend to help you stay on track. Support is essential! Thanks Gina for sharing your fitness story.  I think anyone who reads this will see the common thread.  Having a support network of spouse, kids or friends is essential to maintaining it for the long haul.  Over the past 20+ years I’ve been doing this, most of my biggest successes who maintain a fit lifestyle long term all have a spouse or good friend who comes along side on a daily basis.  In addition, finding something you like to do is also important.  My hope is that each of these stories help inspire someone to get started on their fitness journey or help someone get back on track.  I hope Gina’s fitness story touched one of you. Inspiring Others to Accept the Challenge, Jeff