Strength training is essential for burning fat and calories. The more lean muscle tissue you have, the more calories and fat your body burns, period. Many people have lost weight with calorie restrictive diets, but wit … Continue reading
2009 10K CHALLENGE WINNER - KEVIN M.
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It may sound cliche, but Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping changed my life. When I was a child, and even into high school can college, I was always thin and athletic, and could eat whatever I wanted – whenever I wanted. That mentality followed me into my adult life, but I wasn’t as active, so over the years, the pounds started piling on and my stress matched that incline. After college I got married and had four kids. During each of my wife’s pregnancies, I gained sympathy weight – then ate sugar to get through those sleep deprivation infant days. Every so often, I would get into an exercise regimen and try to diet, but nothing ever stuck. As of June 2008, I weighed in my highest weight of 275, and I felt terrible about myself. For my 47 birthday, my wife signed me up for Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping. I can still recall arriving to test and take my initial pictures with an overwhelming feeling of self-consciousness. The sore muscles combined with my insecurities and body image issues all added up to a difficult first few days. But then the transformation started to take place. There was something about the team spirit, accountability, and family-friendly atmosphere, all combined with the rigid structure that my body, mind and spirit responded to. After 10 weeks, I had gone from 262 pounds, with 33.2% body fat, to 220 pounds and 23.4% body fat. Now a year later, I weigh in at 193, with a 15% body fat. I workout 6 days a week, and have changed my diet to incorporate lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, multi-grains…and no alcohol and processed foods. I allow myself one “cheat” day a week (and since I am a restaurant owner/chef, I love to eat!) In addition to Farrell’s, I have now incorporated running, swimming and biking into my regime. I have completed a half marathon, four triathlons, and I’m currently training for the half Ironman Triathlon. Without a doubt, I would absolutely not be setting new goals and participating in these activities had I not made the decision to “live with power and purpose”. I am now a KB and Bands instructor and through Farrell’s, I have made lifelong friends that I know will continue to support me on my journey to health. I also have tried to become a mentor and advise those many others on their paths to transformation, and sometimes I see a kindred spirit like me – an insecure chubby person wanting to make a change in their lives. In short, I feel like a new person. My self esteem and energy level are at all time high. I look ten years younger and get compliments on a daily basis, but the most important thing to me is that I am setting a good example for my kids – they see firsthand the benefits of a healthy diet and regimented exercise routine. In fact, exercise is a part of all of our lives now (my wife is enrolled in FIT), and I feel that is one of the best life lessons I could bestow upon them. Finally, and surprisingly, is my renewed relationship with my higher power. Before, my weight and insecurities would be a stumbling block in achieving a level of faith. But now I realize my body is a temple, and the mental clarity I get through exercise takes me to that level. Although I am competing in the 10K Challenge, maybe I should be the one writing the check….I have gained the most valuable gift in life – the love of family, God and self. That’s worth more than any amount of money. |
Kevin's Transformation Push-ups: |