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Lisa's Victory

10/27/2016

How did you feel before you began training?
When I made the decision to finally begin training, I was probably at one of the lowest points ever in my life. I was morbidly obese, depressed, and on multiple prescription medications for various things. I was embarrassed by how I looked, and couldn't really figure out when or how things had gotten so out of control. As a paramedic, work was difficult for me. I found it difficult to carry needed equipment up a flight of steps, to move patients, or to even get into some spaces or positions required of me over the course of a shift. I didn't want to go anywhere or do anything because it was all just HARD.

What motivated you to take the first step?
I had finally hit rock bottom for me. I woke up one day and decided I didn't like living like that any longer, and that I needed to make some changes if I wanted to continue to be around for my husband and my son. I was exhausted all the time, and didn't want to feel that way any longer. I finally had gotten to a place where not only had I decided that I really, truly needed to do something about my weight and health, but I honestly believed that I was worth the effort, and I deserved to put myself first for once.

After the first month, how did you feel?
There were days where I would feel tired or sore. There were days where I felt overwhelmed with the changes I was making, and even doubted if I could continue to do it. However, there were many more days where I felt encouraged. Because I had such a large amount of weight, I began seeing incredible progress almost immediately, and that really helped me to stay on track and keep going. The more success I had, the more I began to believe in myself and think, I really can do this!

Bruce is an amazing instructor! He has never asked me to do anything that I wasn't able complete. It hasn't always been easy, and I haven't always been confident that I could do the task at hand at first, but over time learned that even though he would challenge and push me, he wouldn't ask me to do anything I wasn't ready to do. I love that he takes a very encouraging and low key approach to his instruction. He's very patient, and will spend as much time as it takes to make sure you are completing the task at hand safely and correctly.

What have you accomplished?
I have been working with Bruce for three years now. Within the first year and a half I have lost 92 pounds. (I have gained some back, but am working to get back to where I was.) I was inspired to become a kettle bell instructor, and in November 2015, I attended and successfully completed the Strongfirst SGF I certification for kettle bell instructors. Along with kettle bells, I have added barbell work to my program, and have successfully pulled a 330 pound deadlift. I've been able to do a strict pull-up. Recently, I added paintball photographer to my list, which is actually a much more physically demanding activity than I had imagined it would be. I am, quite simply, stronger and in better shape than I have probably ever been in my adult life. I love the feelings of strength and confidence this journey has given me.

Trainer's Note: The scale weight lost reflects Lisa's fat loss. Due to the muscle gained, it is safe to estimate she lost 110lbs of body fat, while also losing well over 50 inches!!

How has this effected the way you do your job and life in general?
I love knowing that I don't have to rely upon the guys at work to move a patient for me, and that I am just as capable as they are of getting the job done. I love feeling strong! And, I love that I am able to get out and do things with my family that were difficult, if not impossible, for me to do 3 years ago. I have been able to stop taking many of the prescription medications I was on when I first started training with Bruce. A couple of summers ago, my husband and I went to Colorado for a vacation. For the first time since I met him, I was able to out-hike my husband. It was awesome to not be the one wanting to stop and take a rest for a change! I am much more active, and no longer feel as if I am missing out on memories with my son. Training with Bruce has easily been one of the best things I have ever done.

What would you say to someone wants to go through the same process?
Definitely contact Bruce! You aren't going to find anyone better at helping you to be successful, regardless of what your goals are. He is extremely supportive and encouraging and wants to see you be successful. The work isn't always easy, but if you trust him, with his knowledge and experience, he will do everything he can to help you get to where you want to be!

CLICK HERE TO BEGIN YOUR VICTORY STORY!

If you or someone you know can relate to Lisa's story, and wants to accomplish weight loss or strength gains like hers, then contact Victory Strength and Fitness TODAY!

CONTACT VSF HERE

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October Surprise!

10/13/2016

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Scary October Surprise Weight Gain

How it happens and how to fight it!

Summer is over, temperatures fall, scales go up, and we can now where hoodies to cover up, but what makes this time of year tougher for those pursuing fitness goals, is the fact that we have 3 months in a row that revolve around eating....let's just say....not optimal food choices. This combined with the tendency to stay indoors and decrease activity leads to the extra holiday pounds that we all try to lose in January. There is even scientific research to support this from the New England Journal of Medicine You can find that here. http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMc1602012

Some sources say, depending on your region, that weight gains can be as low as 1.5 lbs, but some can gain up to 10lbs over the holidays. It all happens very slowly.

First we surround oursleves with candy all month long in October leading up to Halloween.
Then as November builds up to Thanksgiving, many of us have office parties, church events, and even mutilple families to celebrate Thanksgiving with. So we end up having multiple massive meals, left overs, and desserts for a few weeks.
Finally we have all the Christmas goodies hanging around every workplace, more office parties, more church events, and more family events all revolving around eating delicious but not very nutritious stuff.

5 Strategies to Fight the Battle of the Bulge!

Don't buy Halloween candy until the day before or day of. This way it's not sitting around all month and you "accidentally" snack it all away. Then you won't have to replenish the treats for the kids. This will also save a bit of money!
When the trick or treaters start to slow down, estimate who your last one is, and hook them up! Give them all the rest of the candy. Leave no bar behind! You'll be the best house ever for those kids, and now there is none left to derail your goals.
Before any parties or big meals, drink a glass of water, or do one better, drink a protein shake. You will feel fuller faster and not be as likely to over indulge.
If you are involved in a fitness program, get a good workout in before your party or meal event. Your body will be primed to absorb the sugars and less likely to convert them to fat. There's a catch! Only resistance training exercise can cause your body to be in a carb replenishing / non-fat storing state.
If you are not involved in a fitness program, find one and be consistent! Strength training has been scientically proven to boost insulin sensitivity, mood, metabolism, and fat loss much more effectively than jogging or other forms of steady cardio. On that note.....

If you are looking for a weight loss program. Victory Strength and Fitness has openings for new clients and there are spaces available in our Kettle Bell Strength and Endurance Classes.

Feel free to contact Victory Strength and Fitness for more info about our classes, training, or the world class AMAZING 12 program! We would be honored to help you accomplish your fitness goals!

CONTACT VSF CLICK HERE

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Victory Strength and Fitness

Lisa's Victory

October Surprise!

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