Member Spotlight | When Enough Is Enough

Member Spotlight | When Enough Is Enough

by | Jun 11, 2018 | All, Home, Member Stories

August 2016

Barrie, Ontario, Canada – Meet Debbie E., a member who was quite unhealthy for the longest time. You may ask yourself, what makes a 49-year-old woman suddenly change her relationship with health and fitness? Was it someone else’s idea? Was it something that happened? Why the change? Why now? Well, much like the beginning of a grand novel in which our protagonist is unaware of life-changing self-discovery laying ahead, it started off as a day like any other… Our story starts in September 2016, when Debbie went to watch a group of friends participate in the Toronto Tough Mudder. Simply walking the spectator course nearly did her in! Eventually, the course was completed and the group of them were able to sit together and celebrate – and that is when it hit her. As if the world around her suddenly stopped, Debbie looked up and in a moment of craziness or clarity, Debbie announced that she wanted to complete the Tough Mudder the very next year.

Silence.

The teamed looked around in disbelief; shock across their faces, before shouting a resounding “Game on!” And so the story begins.

Game On

Debbie describes herself as having always been a strong-willed person, focused and determined with an all or nothing attitude. However, she never seemed to apply that attitude directly to herself. After a few false fitness starts later, a friend asked Debbie if she would like to join a gym with her. Me, in a gym…Ha!, she thought. But, with the goal of completing the Tough Mudder still gnawing at her, Debbie decided to make the move and join. She realized she really had nothing to lose except weight and bad habits. The physical and emotional efforts of years of unhealthy living were finally getting to her.

A Nervous Heartbeat, A Chance Taken

Walking through the doors of the gym was one of the most intimidating things Debbie admits she’s ever done. Yet she knew it was the beginning of challenging herself, and the start of a whole new way of life. Consistency became her new best friend. She set small goals along the way which helped her tremendously. At one point, Debbie began identifying one thing every day that was a marker of a positive change, whether that was climbing a flight of stairs without stopping, doing one more rep at the gym, walking someplace instead of driving, or choosing veggies over chips.

Trainer Talk

In an effort to continue along the path of success, Debbie started working with a trainer who walked her through workouts step by step, answered any questions she had, and provided tips and strategies that helped hold her accountable.

They say change doesn’t happen overnight. Learning new things and letting go of old habits can be scary, but it can also be exciting and empowering. Being patient can be frustrating, however patience is essential if the journey is to be enjoyed.

Debbie E.

LA Fitness Pro Results® Client

Like every heroine in their journey to success, there were times when Debbie felt like giving up. She recalls days of sitting in the parking lot thinking of all the reasons why she could or should leave. There were days she really wanted to give in, but with the steadfast support of those around her, she pushed through. Through those trying times, finding guidance from the right sources was essential. She notes that “There have been many who have come along with me and pushed me. It was and continues to be helpful to find like-minded people who have been there and are continuing to work at it.”

Debbie E. and Pro Results® trainer Ian W. 

Debbie’s Typical Workout Routine Cardio – Treadmill or Stairs – 45 -60 minutes /day Weights Workout /Machines – 45 – 60 minutes /day- Push / Pull/HIIT-Core rotation.

My trainer has taught me that the basis of a successful training program relies mainly on resistance training with compound exercises, supplemented with core and accessory work as well as cardiovascular training. Form is priority number one, with intensity being a close second. We continually switch up the program and focus on constant progression, but allow patience when it comes to managing injury or illness and when life gets in the way.

My fundamental workout goal remains to get to the gym every day. I stay the course, enjoy the process, push past challenges and celebrate the successes.

My final words to those who are just beginning their journey are that you should never be afraid to try new things and don’t ever think it’s too late! I have achieved more than I ever would have dreamed possible, and I have a whole new lease on life because I dared to take that first step.

Be brave and make a change.

The Moment of Truth On August 20th, 2017, 8 months after joining LA Fitness, Debbie completed the Tough Mudder Toronto course with the support of an amazing team and trainer. She climbed, ran, pushed, pulled, fell, rolled, swung, carried and swam through 10 miles of mud and obstacles. Debbie describes the sense of satisfaction and accomplishment as being unparalleled to anything she had ever felt before. For Debbie, the overall experience has been transforming. She’s noticed that as she sheds the pounds, she feels stronger and more capable physically, mentally and emotionally. She’s also been better able to manage the juggling act of work and home. The changes have brought her a newfound sense of confidence and she knows she has added quality years to her life.

…But The Story’s Not Over

Debbie wants more of what a healthy life brings and to ensure this, her work continues! She continues to train a few times a week with her Pro Results® trainer, Ian W., and maintains the structure and routine that has led to her success. She’s also begun trying new things like Zumba® group fitness classes, and she waterskied for the first time in 30 years this past summer. In September 2017, Debbie made it to the top of a mountain that had previously done her in (she had only made it ¼ of the way before) 3 years ago, and she enjoys clothes shopping more than ever!

Future Goals

  1. To become as strong and healthy as I can, and to minimize the risks of age-related health concerns. Aging is inevitable. But I believe that being as fit as possible will help me to look and feel my best.
  2. To become the best version of myself, inside and out. I want to be an amazing role model for my children, my family, and my friends. I want to be an inspiration to others who are also on the journey of fitness. Now that I know what it is really like to feel healthy and good about my life choices, I know that I could never go back. I want to show people that if I can do it – anyone can!
  3. To continue to work with my trainer to develop new skills (and muscles). There is nothing like the sense of accomplishment you get when you are finally able to do something you never dreamed you would be able to do! I will continue to evolve and challenge myself while maintaining an active fitness program.
  4. To continue to use fitness as a way to combat mental and emotional fatigue. I have found that taking your frustrations out on the treadmill works better than anything else I have tried, and leaves you feeling much better than other less healthy coping methods.

Left: December 2016 | Right:January 2018

Debbie’s Diet She follows a meal plan that emphasizes balanced and healthy eating, focusing on lower carbohydrate intake. This was a huge change for her and over the course of 14 months, her diet has helped her lose over 175 lbs. and 48.5 inches (from a size 26 to an 8). She now eats smaller portions 6-7 times a day and includes vitamin supplements. She’s learned that food is fuel and that she needs to properly fuel her body so that it can perform how she wants it to.

A Special Message to LA Fitness Staff from Debbie E. Of special note, all the staff at my LA Fitness deserve a huge thank you and recognition for what they do and how they do it. Whether they know it or not, reflecting on my experience thus far, they have played a large part in why and how I kept going and keep coming back. They have been the smiling faces when I enter the gym (when I’m not so sure I was in the mood to smile back), they have offered words of encouragement and listened, they are knowledgeable, approachable and professional. I owe them all a tremendous debt of gratitude.

LAF, LA Fitness, Pro Results training, muscle logoSign up for a complimentary Pro Results® fitness assessment today! Only you can take the first step to completely transforming your life into what you’ve always dreamed it could be.

Do you have a fitness goal you’d like to share with us? What are you working towards? How do you plan to live out your life story? Commit to being fit today!

This article should not replace any exercise program or restrictions, any dietary supplements or restrictions, or any other medical recommendations from your primary care physician. Before starting any exercise program or diet, make sure it is approved by your doctor.

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Member Spotlight | The Journey to Gain Weight

Member Spotlight | The Journey to Gain Weight

by | May 28, 2018 | All, Community, Fitness, Home, Member Stories

In the fitness world, a common issue seems to be the struggle to lose weight, but that’s not that case for everyone. Adrianna E., of Orange City, Florida, has fought her entire life to gain weight. Growing up, she struggled to weigh even 100 lbs. She had always been naturally thin, but this was different. Her diet didn’t help her situation. Adrianna would eat about twice a day, which led to her feeling completely drained 24/7, and contributed to the fact that she was unhealthily underweight. It was an uphill battle, which she seemed to be losing. Still, she pushed on and wanted more for herself.

It was after high school graduation, when Adrianna had her mind set on becoming a law enforcement officer, that she realized she had to make a change. After going through the Junior Law Enforcement Academy, she realized she needed to get into much better shape before she could see her dreams come to fruition. This is when Adrianna decided to join LA Fitness, with the added assistance of a personal trainer.

The Change Begins

Adrianna E. began working with Pro Results® personal trainer*, David A. With his help, Adrianna learned that she was not doomed to be underweight forever, and that she could exercise control over her own body. With that, her mindset began to change, and she began working to make healthy changes in her life. Unfortunately, every great story, and every great hero, has some roadblocks along the way.

A year and a half into her fitness journey, Adrianna found out that she was extremely sick and was confined to bed rest for three long months. She was devastated to think that all of her hard work with her trainer, David, would be gone, and all of the progress she made would vanish. It’s these moments, when the odds seem stacked against us, that we are tested mentally to keep pushing on.

Adrianna knew she would get back to the gym.

After being cleared to go back to the gym, Adrianna credits her trainer David for helping her get motivated again, and feel better than she did before. When she started the training program, she weighed 100 lbs., and now she is proud to say she weighs a healthy 127 lbs., and feels the best she ever has!

Where She Is Now

Adrianna continues to train 3 to 4 times a week. While she admits it can be difficult finding the time for the gym between full-time school and full-time work, she has learned that when you want something bad enough, you will find a way to make time.

Her cardio sessions are limited to 1-2 times a week, “just to keep [her] heart happy,” but she focuses mainly on weightlifting, in order to help build her muscles. She admits that the biggest change has been her diet. She went from eating two meals a day to eating every three to four hours. Adrianna no longer eats fast food; and while she still loves her pizza and tacos, she makes sure to eat those things in moderation, and instead, fuel her body with what she knows will make it feel good.

Adrianna plans to spend 2018 focusing on gaining strength, and in her words, if “tons of gains come along with that, I’m not complaining!”

Overall, I have learned that absolutely anything is possible for yourself if you try hard enough to make it happen. I’m forever grateful for LA Fitness and my trainer, David A. I will never live without the gym again! This is not just a “journey” for me anymore – it has become a lifestyle.

Adrianna E.

LA Fitness Pro Results® Client

Advice From Adrianna 

“Do not compare yourself to others in the midst of your own fitness journey. You are in a competition with nobody but yourself. Always strive to be better than who you were yesterday, never who somebody else is today.” – Adrianna E., LA Fitness Pro Results® Client

*Pro Results® services are subject to a separate agreement and an additional fee.

This article should not replace any exercise program or restrictions, any dietary supplements or restrictions, or any other medical recommendations from your primary care physician. Before starting any exercise program or diet, make sure it is approved by your doctor.

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Member Spotlight | From Broken Foot to Completing the Chicago Marathon

Member Spotlight | From Broken Foot to Completing the Chicago Marathon

by | May 7, 2018 | All, Community, Fitness, Home, Member Stories

At the young age of 29, Lewis C., of Atlanta, GA, feared he may never walk properly again. After a tough tumble down a flight of stairs, Lewis was confined to crutches for a week and a boot for 7 weeks, after learning he had broken his fifth metatarsal in his right foot. He was unable to walk, let alone work out. Being confined to having his foot elevated 12 hours a day, Lewis was quickly gaining weight and noticed his overall demeanor began to change. It was a long, and rough, 7 weeks.

Maybe it was being confined indoors, maybe it was the lack of exercise– whatever it was, something ignited in Lewis over these 7 weeks. With a broken foot, and a rough recovery, Lewis decided he was going to run the Chicago Marathon in celebration of his 30th birthday. Lewis was determined to not let the injury define him or make him lose sight of his fitness goals. After all, he had always been committed to fitness in his adult life and was active in sports like swimming and track when in high school.

The Training Begins

After a sufficient recovery period, Lewis began his training program in June of 2017, five months after his foot injury had occurred. Lewis  knew he needed a place to train and realized the incredible resources offered at his local LA Fitness. With the proper equipment he was able to condition his legs, core and overall body for the race. He paired indoor and outdoor running, along with the assistance of his LA Fitness coach, Lisa, and was able to get the job done in an unbelievable 18 week training period.

Lewis successfully crossed the finish line in Chicago, Illinois, on October 9th 2017.

An Interview with: Lewis C.

Q: Have you always been in shape? 

Lewis C.: Like most people I have had weight fluctuations due to inconsistent eating habits brought on by a job in the airline industry with variable hours. Since 2007, I had more or less worked out 5-6 days a week and do my best to take protein supplements regularly. It’s what keeps me sane, I have to get a workout in and LA Fitness has been the best gym experience I have had since I joined in 2016. I have been to and worked at many other health clubs and the resources included in the LA Fitness membership are vast. I didn’t know it until I really needed people to help me execute the extensive cardio conditioning required for training for your first marathon at age 29.

Q: Have you learned anything about yourself since joining LA Fitness?

LC: Yes. That it’s OK to not know something and ask somebody for help. LA Fitness has staff and members from all walks of the active world: former athletes, current ones, trainers, beginners, body builders, etc. that all have a perspective and voice you can use as a resource and pool to get new fitness ideas, completely change your life, and smash the snot out of goals you never thought possible. I never dreamed I would actually go through with running the Chicago Marathon last October until I finally just paid the registration and bought marathoner shoes.

Also, I think people think running a marathon is an individual sport. It is really a team sport, which I learned, as I had to rely and lean on all different perspectives and advice and change my way of thinking. That’s where LA Fitness is more than just a gym to me; it’s a blackboard where new and dynamic fitness goals are conceived and executed.

Q: How has living an active lifestyle changed your life?

LC: I have had great health and happiness in my 30 years, which I think is primarily due to my staying active. I am the kind of person who needs structure and a tangible goal to reach and a place where I can ask questions of like-minded people. My father always taught me “to be one, ask one”. This is where the structured training plan of a marathon challenged me and a place like LA Fitness nurtured my curiosity and helped shepherd me through the process.

Future Goals

Lewis is back to training 6 days a week in an effort to be in his best shape by summer 2018. With travelling also on the horizon for Lewis, including a trip to Budapest in May, and Shanghai in July, with his best friend Michael, Lewis joked that since he’ll be in a lot of pictures he looks to “LA Fitness to keep [him] camera ready 24/7.”

Lewis’ next big fitness goal is to complete an Ironman race by his 40th birthday.

A Special Message 

Lewis would like to recognize his LA Fitness trainer Lisa, and member services representative, Yolanda, who Lewis credits as the reason he joined LA Fitness.

This article should not replace any exercise program or restrictions, any dietary supplements or restrictions, or any other medical recommendations from your primary care physician. Before starting any program or diet, make sure it is approved by your doctor.

Member responses have been edited for length and clarity.

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Member Spotlight | How Exercising Got Me Off Prescription Meds

Member Spotlight | How Exercising Got Me Off Prescription Meds

by | Apr 9, 2018 | All, Community, Home, Member Stories

Trish O., a single mom working full-time, joined LA Fitness in March 2017 in hopes of turning her health around. An increase in weight put Trish in the unhealthy category. Due to this, her doctor started Trish on medication for high cholesterol, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Unsure where to begin after these diagnoses, Trish began participating in aerobic group fitness classes 3 to 5 days a week. With a consistent workout routine, Trish managed to lose 20 lbs. – but then she hit a plateau. Instead of giving up, or letting this weigh her down, Trish was determined to find a new approach to continue on her journey to getting healthy.

It was time to up her fitness ante.

The Training Begins

Trish started training with Pro Results® personal trainer, Matt E.* She didn’t want to limit herself to scheduled group classes. Instead, she wanted to learn how to incorporate other aspects of the club into her workout routine. Through her training, Trish now understands how to properly use the equipment in the club to her benefit. She shared that Matt has also helped give her exercises that she enjoys doing, which keeps her feeling inspired and motivated.

5 Months Later

Five months after Trish’s training with Matt began, her doctor has taken her off her diabetes and cholesterol medications. She was told that if she continues to lose weight, she can ditch the high blood pressure medication as well! So far, Trish lost a total of 35 lbs. and doesn’t plan on stopping there. She is well on her way to becoming the healthiest she can be. Not only has Trish enjoyed the change LA Fitness has brought her, but she shared that LA Fitness has become like a second family for her and her son. As a single parent, “it really helps [to] have the Kids Klub there for my 2 year-old; he loves the staff and kids there.”*

Trish hopes to continue losing weight, building muscle, and eventually get off her remaining medications.

A Bit of Advice

“Stick to it and don’t be discouraged. Keep a routine and don’t feel bad about taking a break from time to time. My goals are long term and I’m okay if it takes more time than I expected to reach my goals. I recommend personal training so you can get a customized workout plan that you can use for life. Fitness can save your life!” – Trish O., LA Fitness Pro Results® Client

Pro Results® and Kids Klub services are each subject to a separate agreement and an additional fee.

This article should not replace any exercise program or restrictions, any dietary supplements or restrictions, or any other medical recommendations from your primary care physician. Before starting any exercise program or diet, make sure it is approved by your doctor.

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Trainer Spotlight | Helping Others Better Themselves

Trainer Spotlight | Helping Others Better Themselves

by | Mar 26, 2018 | All, Fitness, Home, Member Stories

Shawn M., a San Diego native, grew up and was raised in the community of Spring Valley. Throughout his adolescence, he struggled with body composition and weight. Children teased him for his excess weight from childhood through high school. This affected him greatly, but he didn’t let it defeat him. Surprisingly, what originally got him into fitness was the death of a loved one. It came as a wakeup call to Shawn. He realized that he had to change his life for the better or he could be next.

Weighing in close to 300 lbs., and borderline diabetic, Shawn was not comfortable in his own skin. He began running Monday through Friday, even when he was mentally and physically exhausted from work and school. He changed his diet, which he admits was one of the hardest things for him to do, and had to change his attitude too. Shawn recognized that he had to believe in himself; he had to believe he had the power to actually turn his life around.

With determination, and consistency, Shawn was able to lose the weight and is now working as a Pro Results® personal trainer. He hopes to help others focus on how they feel, rather than how they look on the exterior, and to make a positive difference in people’s life through health and fitness. He loves what he does, and vows to continue helping others better their lives for as long as he physically can.

An Interview with: Pro Results® Personal Trainer, Shawn M.

We spoke with Shawn and asked him to share with us some advice for others who may be struggling with weight and self-esteem issues. This is what he had to say –

Q: How has living an active lifestyle helped better shape your life?

Shawn M.: I would have to say just by being able to help and motivate others. If I did not have a story to tell I would not be able to share and motivate others when it comes to health and fitness.

Q: What should clients know about personal training before beginning a program?

SM: I think people/clients should know that there are no short cuts when it comes to your health. If you are wanting to lose weight, gain mass, or want to change your life around […] I would most likely tell people think long-term and not short-term.

Q: Have you found that there is a way to help clients stay motivated when they’ve hit a fitness plateau?

SM: Yes. I usually would find out their eating habits, exercise routine, sleep schedule, and stress and then start from there. Four major keys I believe in, especially when it comes to a plateau, is stress management, modalities of different exercises, proper sleep, and of course nutrition. I share this with every new client of mine, “let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.”

Q: What advice would you give for those struggling to start/stick to a healthy lifestyle plan?

SM: I would tell them think of your body as a luxury car engine that needs refueling. The foods that you put into your body will give you the energy that you need to get through the day. For an example, if you consume chips, soda, fast foods etc., your body will be fueled with 87 octane, but if you fuel your body with green rich foods, meaty proteins, healthy fats etc. you will be fueling your body with 91 premium. I try to keep it simple so my clients get a good idea of what I’m talking about.

What Lays Ahead for Shawn

Shawn M. is currently working on finishing up his Associate’s Degree and hopes to transfer to Portland State by the end of 2018. He is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Health.

Client Testimonials

“I became a member of LA fitness in 2016 and Shawn Montiel became my trainer. During my assessment with Shawn we discussed my physical limitations, nutrition and what goals I wanted to accomplish. Shawn was able to design a work out for me so I could strengthen my muscles and improve flexibility and balance. I was able to reach these goals with minimal discomfort using his workout plan. If I had difficulty with certain movements Shawn would reassess the workout and come up with an approach that accommodated my needs. Shawn is a very positive person and has a great outlook on life. He focuses on his clients’ needs and abilities. I had a lot of success with him as a personal trainer and would highly recommend Shawn to anyone who is looking to make improvements in their life.”

Lisa Van S.

LAF Pro Results® Client

“My husband, Doug, and I chose Shawn as our trainer because we observed his strong work ethic and attention to his clients’ needs at LA Fitness the latter half of 2017. Shawn spent our first session with him ascertaining our needs, our goals, strengths, and weaknesses in order to develop individualized fitness plans for each of us. Shawn worked with us individually twice weekly for two months inspiring us to increase our strength, endurance, nutritional balance, and cardiac fitness for overall improved health. Shawn not only inspired us to push ourselves harder during our workouts at the gym, but he also inspired us to work out at home and to stay on track with a balanced diet, increasing our daily fluid intake, and increasing our hours of sleep. In summary, Shawn helped my husband and I make positive life balance changes through exercise, nutrition, and rest to better our lives in a positive manner. Shawn is an excellent trainer who role models the healthy lifestyle he teaches his clients.”

Katherine H.

LAF Pro Results® Client

“I want to send you a thousand thank yous because the advice and the program you put me through transformed my body more than ever before. The regimen I was put through garnered me lots of compliments inside and outside of the gym, which sky rocketed my confidence. Not only did you improve my appearance, my body was stronger and performing everything at a much higher level from basketball, to running with explosion, to more stamina throughout the day. You’ve been an integral part in putting my BMI at 3% body fat at 5’8 165 pounds. Now and in the future, my daily workout consists of everything you have ever taught me. Thank you so much. I am forever grateful.”

Aljon F.

LAF Pro Results® Client

If you’re interested in pursuing a healthier lifestyle and feel like you could use a little bit of help, sign up for a complimentary fitness assessment with LA Fitness and meet trainers like Shawn M., who are here to help you become your healthiest self.*

We’re all in this together, and we want you to succeed. Join us in club today! Click here for a complimentary guest pass.

*Pro Results® personal training services are subject to an additional agreement and fee.

This article should not replace any exercise program or restrictions, any dietary supplements or restrictions, or any other medical recommendations from your primary care physician. Before starting any exercise program or diet, make sure it is approved by your doctor.

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