I’m so proud of those I’ve been able to assist in “living their best life now!”
First up, I interview one of my personal training and weight loss clients who has completed my program. We worked together both in-person and online.
Kathy, age 64, graduated from my Transformation Program into Maintenance, having CRUSHED her goals! She came to me because she was having trouble sticking to a healthy diet and regular exercise on her own. She had hoped to lose 10 pounds, but today she’s almost to the 20-pound mark and has lost over 32 inches! Most importantly, she feels great and has a lot more energy to keep up with her toddler granddaughter.
I asked her the following questions about her experiences on my program.
What were the reservations you had before we started working together?
I didn’t really believe I could be successful. I had failed or given up many times prior to this. Always thought “older” women could not lose weight.
What were your top two goals when you started?
Lose 10 pounds; incorporate strength training into exercise routine and exercise five days a week.
What are your achievements training with me thus far?
- Lost 17 pounds without feeling deprived or on a diet
- Lost over 32 inches! I had never measured before.
- Dropped in clothes size
- Look and feel better
- More energy
- Cholesterol dropped 30 points
- Feel I have the framework to continue a healthy lifestyle
“Michelle gave me the tools I needed to make some needed lifestyle changes. While I’d exercised semi-regularly, I was of the mindset ‘no pain, no gain’ and often had knee injuries. Michelle makes sure you are safe! I was amazed that I could get fit without doing boot camps and workouts so hard you dread doing them. You don’t have to leave your house. She gives you many alternatives to try — walking, biking, etc.
I discovered you can’t out-exercise a bad diet. She coaches you on how to eat healthier and always provides positive encouragement!” — Kathy
Another client, Jean, age 52, said, “I feel differently about my health and exercise now that we’ve spent time together. I no longer feel I have to hide, can’t do it, etc. Thank you. I will forever be grateful for your role modeling and positive attitude which has led me to this new perspective. I understand now that God led me to you this last year. I know without a doubt that I would have placed myself on the bottom of the [priority] list. Thank you for making sure I stayed on the list, that I stayed focused, for supporting me…as I reevaluated my definition of health and wellness. It truly meant the world to me and I could not have done it without you.”
Kelly, age 52, said, “Before we started working together, I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to keep up. I was worried about what I would wear. But you were so positive! You told me the plan to slowly increase exercise or change things (food choices) so I didn’t feel overwhelmed. You seemed (and are!) nonjudgemental so I didn’t worry so much about what I wore. My achievements training with you so far are: Exercising daily, increased stamina, hope!, increased flexibility, increased strength, and learning that I am important enough to be a priority. I’m so happy I did this and chose you!”
Shelley, age 66, said, “My previous experiences with exercise professionals has been kind of off-putting, as they seem to think that anyone who doesn’t live to workout is ‘lesser than.’ I don’t want someone yelling at me to do more reps, or suggesting that I am capable of moving out of the women’s section into the ‘real’ gym. It is apparent from your positive, friendly attitude that you genuinely want to help other women attain their goals in a realistic manner. Your encouragement and suggestions are offered in a warm, nurturing fashion that I very much appreciate. I’d say that you are the antithesis of the usual lifelong jock drill sergeant! Since working together, I am more energetic; rising earlier and sleeping better; able to work in the yard all day without suffering for the next week; and have increased bicep and decreased thigh measurements.”
What senior fitness class participants say…
“You have inspired me to be the best person I can be: physically and mentally. I feel so much better after your class even on days I didn’t want to attend. You’ve given us so much good advice and tips.” – Janet, 73
“Your class has helped me by giving me energy and motivation to exercise. I look forward to walking and dancing.” – Anita, 70
“Your class is wonderful! Thanks! I especially enjoy the great variety you add to the various exercises. Your choice of music makes it fun. I look forward to coming to the class. I feel energized after the class” – Mary, 75
“You have helped me MOVE in my retirement! Not only move, but I love the wind-down music and movements probably the most. At times, that part of the class is almost spiritual. I appreciate all the time and effort you bring to planning your classes.” – Louise, 65
“Love this class, all the music you use during the class. It is so much fun. I know you put a lot of your time in all you do.” – Betty, 67
“Your class has helped my stamina and energy. Your exercises are not too overbearing for my age. I like the variety of moves you teach.” – Jerry, 81
“It keeps me moving for at least a short time each week. It is interesting and enjoyable. It is good for me!” – Gladys, 78
“[Your class has helped me] maintain a healthy weight to lower A1C. As a retiree as of August 1st, the class has helped me mentally and physically.” – Betsy, 66
“I truly enjoy your classes. You always make our classes fun to exercise.” – Kay, 69
“Enjoy the music most of all! Feels good to start the day with exercise. You are patient and creative with the routines.” – Patsy, 67
“I have enjoyed your class this year. Good workout each week. Enjoy trying out new exercises each week. Have fun in your classes – you are so upbeat!” – Sarah, 71
“You have a great attitude which is great for us. You are an encourager. Therefore, it is fun to come to your class. Your exercise choices are always healthy.” – Debbie, 70
“Enjoy the dance routines. The stretches have improved my flexibility. Good for reducing stress. You are a great motivator!” – Doris, 65
“It is a great way to start the day – I feel limbered up and energized. Really appreciate your excellent instructions and cheerful attitude. Thanks so much! – Shelly, 65
“You have helped with my energy and help me to keep a positive outlook. Thank you so very much!” – Alice, 65
“Herb and I enjoy your class. We look forward to Monday and Wednesday classes. Thanks for caring and inspiring within us the need to take care of ourselves through eating right & exercising” – Anita
“I cannot even begin to say how the class has helped me physically and mentally. What a great group of ‘friends’. – Glenda
“Look forward to this class every week. I have met some awesome people. Thanks Michelle for your commitment and all you do to make it fun.” – Debbie
What arthritis exercise class participants say…
“This class helps my range of motion in my shoulders, a big problem for me. But it doesn’t over-do me. The class respects my limits and what I can do. It’s just challenging enough, just the right amount for a 70-year-old. I can sleep better now, with less pain in my neck and shoulders. And I look forward to it for social reasons — it’s fun! When you exercise alone, you don’t follow through as much. This class keeps you on track.” – Doris
“When you move your muscles, you get relief and it helps you be more limber and active. I’ve really enjoyed it. I feel like it’s bringing me back alive again! I also love the people coming together. The fellowship makes everyone feel so much better. A lot of them live alone. With the class, we get to socialize and improve our health, and that’s important for a longer life.” – Geraldine
“I look forward to the interaction with other participants, and it got me back into working my neck and upper body where I have problems. It’s easier to do this with a class than alone. The cardio has helped my coordination, and has helped loosen up my hips. I also like that the workout is ‘adjustable’ for what’s good for you.” – Annie
“I am four months out of knee replacement, and this class has helped my balance and flexibility. I love being with everyone and having fun, and it’s done a lot for my mobility. It’s made a big difference. I truly enjoy it, because I won’t do it on my own!” – Rosa
“I have arthritis in my leg, but I liked that you covered the full body. And it’s nice to be with others. I also liked the pace, that you can go at your own pace and do what feels good.” – Betsy
“I have arthritis real bad, especially in my left arm. The exercises helped a lot. I like how you kept the class going — it went by fast! I also enjoyed meeting others.” – Yancey
“I enjoyed everything about this class. It helped my neck, I haven’t had to go to urgent care in a while. My body is full of arthritis. And it gives me something to do, to get out of the house. And my knee and leg feel better too. I loved the cardio the best. I really enjoyed it!” – Gwen
“I wasn’t sure how I’d do. But you made it so fun and easy. I love the music, and variety. And I’ve made some wonderful new friends.”
“I have osteoarthritis. The doctor gave me exercises to do at home, but I was just doing arms and legs. I wasn’t doing leaning and bending until this class. Now I am also walking three times a week. I would recommend this class to anyone.” – Calvin
Contact me today and let’s get started on YOUR success story!