Monday, December 5, 2011

Meet Rosie

Here is a story about how just buckling down and doing what is needed to be done will result in immediate results, even if you've struggled to get results in the past. Let me have Rosie tell you about her adventure:

A good friend of mine joined Fit2YourCore in May 2011 and had visible results in just 4 weeks. Then in September she told me about this challenge they were starting and I wanted in, but I was still unsure. I had only began exercising a year ago and it was in the privacy of my own home. I was a little embarrassed about working out in front of other people.

I've struggled with my weight my entire life. I have never been a thin or fit person, but have always longed to be. I lost a good amount of weight back in 2006 by doing my own version of the Weight Watchers program, but never made the time to exercise. Over time the pounds were starting to creep back on. Last year I decided to start exercising. I started running on a treadmill in my garage at first and then added Jillian Michaels workout DVDs. I saw no results. I was devastated! What was I doing wrong? I know how to cut calories, read lables, etc., plus now I was working out - why wasn't I losing any weight?

I joined Fit2YourCore in late September 2011 and it has changed my life. I have gone from wearing a size 7/6 to a size 4 in just 8 weeks. I have lost 14 pounds, and over 11 inches, including 4 inches off my hips and 3.5 off my waist. The workouts, combined with eating the right foods the right way, has transformed my body into something I never knew possible. I am a 38 year old mother of 3 and am in the best shape of my life! I feel incredible.

The results I have achieved have changed something inside of me, and it is what keeps me motivated. Sliding into those tiny waisted jeans doesn't hurt either!

Working out, being fit and eating right is something I want to do for the rest of my life. It is now a priority. The amazing results that I have acheived over such a short period of time has inspired me to stay motivated and hungry for more. I will continue to work hard and push myself to levels I never thought possible. This is only the beginning for me.

Thank you Nick for all your support and encouragement, and for pushing me in class.

To those of you looking to get in shape, Fit2YourCore is the place to start. The workouts and the support you get there will fuel your motivation and take you to places you could only dream about. Not to mention the Fit2YourCore family - they too are part of what keeps me coming back.

Anything is possible with hard work and determination, and most importantly, if you believe in yourself, and never give up. I am living proof!

Rosie

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Rosie is an absolute rock star and brings the energy every single day to class and it has paid off so great for her. Proud of you Rosie, keep it up.
 
Dedicated to your success,
Nick

Monday, November 28, 2011

Noemi's Story


All of these stories that I've been getting from my clients are great but this one definitely touches my heart, I couldn't be happier for Noemi.  It will be so much better coming from her, so here it is in her words.
 
I have never been athletic or fit. I have always been a shy girl uncomfortable with the way I looked and felt about myself. One day my husband and I were driving to get some fast food, when I told him to stop at the gym because I wanted to check it out. I didn’t know that he was actually in the same mindset and was headed there anyway. We met Nick and he told us about this boot camp that he runs and invited us the next morning. Well, we thought it over and said “why not?” Well, that was an eye opener. I did not know I was in such bad shape! I could barely keep up with the others in the class and after the class, I was sore for days! I couldn’t go up or down the stairs in my house without any pain. I felt like a 100 year old just creeping slowly up the stairs. Wow! Both my husband and I felt so bad that we knew we needed to incorporate fitness into our lives. So we decided to go back to Nick, despite the sore muscles. Well, we signed up for boot camp. It was a small group but everyone was supportive. I was the last person in everything we did. I remember during class I would be saying “I hate Nick, I hate Nick, I hate Nick” because of the pain I would feel from muscles I had never used. But after the 45 minute class I did not hate Nick. 

At times I felt like quitting because I could not keep up with my husband. But I continued going. I did take the summer off because I said it was just too hot for me to be running out in the Vegas summer sun. Not one of my best moves I have to admit. I started going to class again in September of 2010 and this time I was determined to lose weight. My husband and I started eating properly based on the calorie count that Nick gave us. Obviously he lost faster than I did. I usually just ate once a day but Nick taught me the proper way to eat: five to six times a day with a calorie limit. I had to learn to eat properly and it was tough but once I got the hang of it, I started shedding the pounds. I started to get some confidence and I did better in class. When I first began, I could not do a single push-up and now I can. I could not do any mountain jumpers without any pain in my foot from plantar fasciitis. I got several cortisone shots that helped with the pain for a while but the pain would always return. Still, I kept going to class. I even won 2nd place in one of the contests Nick had. It was so exciting! It inspired me to want to continue on the healthy lifestyle. I even did the Camp Pendleton Mud Run in June, which is something I NEVER thought I would do. I figured it was for the extremely healthy and athletic people. It seemed to be am impossible feat for me, but I did it and had SO much fun!

Since I began taking boot camp seriously, I lost over 45 pounds and my plantar fasciitis is almost nonexistent. Don’t get me wrong, my foot still hurts on occasion. but I can tolerate a lot more of the “doctor forbidden” exercises since I weigh much less. I feel so much better about myself although I am not at my goal weight yet. But that is on hold for now. For those of you who don’t know, as an added bonus of losing the weight, I was able to get pregnant. The doctors always told me I would have a lot of trouble getting pregnant, IF it was even possible. I believe that losing the weight played a big part in it. Nick and Fit2YourCore made it possible. He always pushed me to keep going when I was ready to quit! And because of that, I will have a little girl in my life in March of next year!!

If you are considering taking any boot camp classes, I definitely say “go for it” because you will not regret it. Stick with it. Yes, you will be sore. Yes you will have days you do not want to go. And no, it will not be a piece of cake. But it is definitely worth it. Fit2YourCore has grown so much and our “family” is so supportive. Every one encourages each other and Nick works you to your potential. You will feel better about yourself – guaranteed.

Noemi


 






No worries Noemi we will finish up that fitness journey of yours in April or May.  So proud of you.

Best in Health,
Nick

Monday, November 21, 2011

Check Lisa Out

Here is another story of what just a little commitment and hard work can get you.  Here is Lisa's story in her words.


Every time I would bump into a couple of my good friends (Joe & Diane Balzer) they would go on and on about this great boot camp they have been going too. I had to admit, they looked great. I kept telling them maybe after I have the baby, I am too busy, always had an excuse. Then in December Joe forwarded me an email with this great deal for a year of boot camp classes. It was then I decided I was ready to do something. So I called my sister (because I was scared to death to try this on my own) and told her we are doing this together. I remember pulling into the parking lot and sitting in my car, I didn’t want to go in. I knew I would be faced with how out of shape I was and for all I knew everyone in the class was going to be in great shape and I would feel way out of my league, ridiculous and extremely intimidated. What I had visualized wasn’t even close. Everyone was very welcoming and extremely supportive, and all at different fitness levels. 

So my journey began. It was very obvious how out of shape I was, I could barely jump rope, run a lap or do a minute of mountain climbers. I committed myself to this, no matter how hard it was or how sore I got, I was going to do this! I have attended class 5 days a week for almost a year now, the only time I have missed a class was if we were out of town. I never allowed myself to make excuses on why I can’t or don’t want to go. It is part of my daily routine, so I go every day no matter what. I now find myself looking forward to going. I enjoy the work outs, I love seeing my friends that I have made during this journey and I love the “me” time I get every morning. It is an hour I get to focus on myself, and as a mom those moments are few and far in between.  

Here are a few of my personal tips for anyone starting this journey:

Make going to class part of your daily routine. Just like brushing your teeth or getting dressed. It is something you need to do. No excuses! 

Moderation is key (as far as food goes). I have lost 54 pounds and over 40 inches in the last 10 months. I still have the occasional slice of pizza, or a hamburger. It is ok to have this stuff as long as you control it. I still eat whatever my family has for dinner. I just have smaller portions. 

Take pictures! Take a picture the day you start class, and take them monthly. You won’t like what you see at first but it is very rewarding once you see the amazing results. 

I am so very grateful for being part of the Fit2yourcore family! I am stronger, thinner and healthier than I have been in the last 13 years. Thank you Nick and the Fit2YourCore team! I look forward to many years of working out and staying part of this amazing program. 

Lisa




 









Lisa is one of the most consistent people I have ever worked with. She is at class no matter what. It has been great seeing her change, not only her physical appearance but also the belief that she has in herself.  She has become a true competitor and a great motivator in class. Thanks for all your hard work Lisa.

Best in Health,
Nick

Monday, November 14, 2011

Natalie's Story


Here is the story of Natalie. This is a story that any busy mom should be able to relate to and appreciate. She does amazing things and is a constant motivator of others. Here is Natalie's story in her words. 

Although I went to a few bootcamps in April and May, it wasn't until June of 2010 that bootcamp became a way of life for me.  When I began, I was very reluctant...wasn't sure it was for me.  I knew I had gained some weight,  and I knew I wasn't active like I should be, but I wasn't so sure I needed something so tough and "in my face."  I was sure that the unhealthy place I had gotten was a place I could quickly get out of on my own...whenever I decided I wanted to...

Well, I soon came face to face with the reality that I could barely make it through a 45 minute class, struggled to lose a few pounds (as I was sure my diet was fine), and then learned that I was in a risk category for heart issues because of my body fat percentage.  That was shocking!  I didn't feel that unhealthy, I didn't feel I was in a true danger zone..and so these words came with a sharp and painful wake up call!  Thanks to Nick and his tough yet honest answers, I came to understand that I was on a downward spiral and needed to make some changes.  I had gone from 125 pounds to 153 and probably was looking to gain more had I not found Fit2YourCore.  

And so the journey began!  I attended bootcamp at least 4 times a week, implemented the nutrition part, wrote in a food journal, worked hard to break habits, changed my children's snacking, and began to run in 5ks!  Over the next 6 months, I lost 25 pounds, 12% body fat, and several inches. It has been such a journey of sweat, tears, and successful joy!  I have worked hard and the testimony is in how I feel...I have energy again and feel such a desire to challenge myself with new goals and accomplishments!

For anyone out there trying to get into shape, my first tip is, "ADMIT IT!"  Once I quit denying I needed help, it was so much easier to drive to bootcamp and walk into class.  I had to lose a bit of my pride. It wasn't healthy pride anyway, so it needed to go.  My second tip is "DON'T STOP".  Now coming from a busy full time working mom of 3 active kids, I know it is hard.  It is challenging to fit the "workout" in, but once you stop, it is so hard to get back into the groove.  So, if it doesn't work out for a day or two or three, so be it...just tell yourself the day that you will start again, and stick to the plan.  And on the days you have to miss, be sure to do something at home, even if its for just a few minutes! And my third tip is a personal one.  "Love yourself through the changes and ENJOY the PROCESS!"  Once I fell in love with bootcamp and my whole attitude changed, the workouts changed, and the results changed!  It was as if I began working with my body instead of against it...and this is when the true transformation began!

As for staying motivated...Well, I take a look at the first pictures of me, the girl who thought she didn't need help, and I am quickly motivated to get my booty back to class!  Motivation comes from many sources and Nick is one of the best. He taught me how to hear my internal motivation.  Believe in yourself, Natalie!
Thank you Nick and Fit2YourCore…I am forever grateful! And I intend to keep on the journey, hopefully sharing the success with others along the way!
Natalie 











Natalie is currently training for her 2nd Irongirl Triathlon in April. She is also working towards attaining her personal training certification so that she can help spread her new found love of fitness onto others. Natalie you are a true inspiration to so many more than you even know, keep up the hard work.
Best in Health,
Nick

Monday, November 7, 2011

Meet Levy

Here is another great success story to help keep you motivated or to help get you started on a lifestyle of fitness.  Levy is a prime example that anyone can change their lifestyle.  He has not only completely changed his life but is one of the strongest leaders in class.  He leads and motivates not only with his words but his actions as well.  Here is Levy's story in his words.

I wish I could say my reason for changing was a medical one or because of my family and my health, but it's really not. I guess I just woke up one day and decided I should try the healthy and sexy path in life. I mean, I never considered myself FAT - just warm and cuddly. My wife and I decided to try a healthy way of life. We met Nick at our local gym and he invited us to an extremely early class in a park for a workout. That was my wake up call to my path. I was unable to walk or do much for the next three days. I was sore in muscles I had never felt before. I had always been athletic, did sports, and considered myself to be healthy. But boy was I wrong! I knew I needed this change in my life. My wife and I decided to continue going to Nick’s classes, despite the soreness and pain. We knew if we did it together, it would be easier and we could support each other. And I learned to love working out. I need it now. Nick pushes me beyond my comfort zone and makes me want to do better. He also found a way to get through my lovely warm, cuddly exterior and help me understand the real issues about eating. My wife learned to cook healthy foods that we both love and made it easier to get healthy. Nick taught me how to eat and workout, but most of all he taught me how to think and be able to adjust to the wonderful buffets in town. When I workout I always think to myself, I can't, it's too hard, why, I love being fluffy. But by the end of the workout, I'm a completely new person. My attitude is, I'm doing this and why shouldn't I. It's not easy. And it shouldn't be, or else what will you ever learn if it's just given to you. What I love about Nick is that he pushes you and makes you feel uncomfortable and uncertain about everything, but that's what we really need. He keeps us on our toes. And when we get a huge head or ego, he walks over and pops it.



Back when I joined, we didn't have all the support we do now. There were very few of us. It has been amazing to see how much Fit2YourCore has grown. We are like a big family and everyone supports each other. My starting weight was 257 lbs. I have lost over 50 lbs, I have completed many 5ks, I am able to run 13 miles without stopping, and I am considering doing a half marathon in December. I have come a long way and I love it. It is not always easy, but living a healthy life is not impossible. You just workout, give it your all, eat healthy and just incorporate it into your daily life. It just comes naturally after awhile and you feel better about yourself. I don’t ever plan on changing this way of life. It has made me happier, healthier and I feel better about myself. And, I know when I have kids, I will be able to keep up with them.

Levy Avila


Levy will run the half marathon in December and he will do phenomenal at it just as he does with everything that he takes on.  Now is the time for you to take the necessary steps that Levy did and get yourself on the fitness lifestyle.

Best in health,
Nick








Monday, October 31, 2011

Story of Lori, aka "Miss Inspirational"

Who doesn't love a great success story? 

So as a way for me to help motivate you to continue towards your fitness goals, get started on a fitness program or just so you can read about the many successes my clients have seen, I've decided to do a client feature of the week.

My first feature is on one of the most amazing women I have ever met.  She is always so inspirational to others and always brings full intensity to EVERY workout.  So here is Lori's story in her own words.


My daughter started working out at Fit2YourCore and was looking and feeling fabulous. I was training on my own and not seeing any results. I needed something to help me get to the next level of fitness. I decided to try Fit2YourCore in July of 2010.

At first, I thought I was in over my head, I was last in everything. I could not squat, do a sit-up, run or jump rope. I told myself that boot camp was an extreme workout meant for athletes, maybe I didn’t fit in. But, I had a strong desire to be more energetic and physically fit so, I just kept trying. I made new friends each time I attended class and they inspired and encouraged me to step up to their level of strength. Nick insisted it was possible for me to do this workout and challenged me to try. My list of excuses was endless. I told myself, I was too old, too fat, and too busy to be doing this. Nick assured me that I was capable of doing what seemed impossible to me. There were many times he had to push me out of my comfort zone. I had a choice I could accomplish the task or fail and failure is not an option for me. Sure, the aches and pains are never-ending but my body was changing and it felt remarkable.

Changing my thoughts and pushing my body has made me more self-confident. I am setting goals for myself that I never thought were possible. Recently, I ran a 188 mile relay race with an awesome group of friends I have made at Fit2YourCore. In December I am going to run a half marathon on the Las Vegas strip. In April I am going to compete in Iron Girl sprint triathlon.

You see, what keeps me motivated is the wonderful feeling of well-being I get from living a healthy lifestyle. I continue to be totally amazed at what a well-trained human body can achieve. The possibilities seem limitless, and that’s why I try not to say “I can’t” and just keep working!

Lori Malofy


Thank you so much Lori for sharing your story with us.  Lori is a bit modest at times and she left out a few things.  Lori is 50+ years old, has lost 25 pounds and has received 2 awards by dominating 5k's that she has run.  Keep doing what you do Lori, BEING AMAZING.

Best in Health,
Nick
702.339.0223





Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Strange How Some Accept Failure

Help Me To Understand...

Sorry I have not posted anything in awhile.  I have been completely engulfed in trying to help my clients in my current 6 Week Contest see the absolute best results that they can in those 6 weeks.

I mean I have really been putting my all into helping them and pushing them to their limits.  We are just now halfway through the 3rd week and let me tell you, some of them have already lost massive amounts of weight.  I made everyone set some pretty hefty goals in the beginning, I mean some goals that they were really going to have to put their all into.  I wanted to really push them and see what I could get out of them.  Some of them are already at their 6 week goals, it is AMAZING!

I still am not sure if it is me pushing them or the cash prizes that has them pulling these huge numbers.  I have offered up a grand prize of $250 for the biggest body transformation and I am giving anyone that can lose 20 lbs $100.  I have never seen such drive from clients.  Being that I have 21 people in this contest I could be out some serious cash.  Best money I will have ever spent though.

Now I don't want to give false information and make it seem like every single one of them are seeing the results that they should be.  This is actually where I need your help to help me understand why not.

You see it always seems like right around this time into the contest (2-3 weeks) I see a huge division, those that are seeing incredible results and a few that are not seeing much at all and don't really seem like they care to.  I have ran many transformation contests in my career and this is the part that REALLY gets to me.

You see, this time I tried something different to see if I would see different results from clients.  I offered up meal plans, extra 1-on-1 training, and unlimited email and phone support all for free to see if that would help people to stay on track, stay motivated, and get the results they are after.  Do some people like to just say that they work out?  Do some like to say that they work with a trainer?  Why wouldn't they all take advantage of all the help that I am extending to them?  I am starting to believe that to some people failure is a safe place for them and that is what they are comfortable with.  We have an extremely motivational and supportive team all the way through from the trainers to the other participants of the contest.  So I know it is not for a lack of outside motivation.  I guess it just comes down to the fact that I can't want it for them more than they do.  It is awfully frustrating though.  I know it is not easy but it is so worth it in the end.

Please leave me a comment if you can provide any insight to me on this.  I know I can't help everyone but it really bothers me that some let their negative thinking hold them back from their full potential.  Also, if you would like to participate in the next 6 Week Body Transformation that will be starting in September and you are truly determined to see a difference let me know and I will make sure you get all the details.

Nick