Super Mom Challenge: Phase III
By: Jim Stringer
Sundra Now
Sundra's progress: (L to R:) Jan. '11, Apr. '11, July '11
Shannon Now
Shannon's progress: (L to R:) Jan. '11, Apr. '11, July '11
Well it's time for another Super Mom Challenge update! As a personal trainer I play many roles in my clients lives; coach, cheerleader, disciplinarian, teacher and student... yes student. You see I learn as much from my clients as they (hopefully) learn from me. All good relationships are a two-way street and the personal trainer/client relationship is no different!
With each and every client I have learned more about the sacrifices made over gaining weight. Sacrifices such as never being able to shop in certain stores or wear certain fashions. Giving up quality time with the family by the pool or at the beach because someone is ashamed of their body or watching relationships fall apart because a family member is in a downward spiral over body image, food addictions or weight gain. This is all certainly powerful stuff to consider the next time we reach for that small temporary pleasure nicely packaged up in the form of a cookie or decadent meal.
But the learning does not stop there. . .
I have also learned about the power and beauty of someone taking control of their life. I have seen the smiles of joy and accomplishment when a person exceeds their goals. No piece of cake or fast food meal will ever allow you to do more with your family or be around longer for those you love and our Super Moms are doing just that!
Sundra has now lost over 30 lbs and realized the value of making herself a priority in her busy life. She recently attended her husband, Brad's college reunion and for the first time in years Sundra was able to purchase a spectacular dress for the event. The whole family was amazed at how beautiful and confident she looked! Since she began, Sundra has dropped from 33% body fat to 20.6%. Sundra will be the first to tell you that it has not been easy, but the benefits far outweigh the choices and lifestyle she was living!
Super Mom Shannon continues to amaze with her lifestyle changes and has transformed not only her lifestyle, but herself. Now almost 40 lbs lighter, Shannon has learned more about herself and her choices. She has brought changes into her family's life as well. Both of her sons love soccer and she has enrolled them into a sport specific training program to further their playing enjoyment and success. Since starting the program, Shannon has gone from over 45% body fat to less than 35%. She continues to improve the quality of her life by cooking more meals at home and becoming a source of inspiration for family and friends. Recently Shannon saw how lifestyle choices were affecting the quality of her friends' lives and inspired them each to take control of their lives!
When you fill your life with good food and exercise, some things have to be sacrificed. You might just have to give up watching re-runs of The Office and Seinfeld to find time to cook dinner. You might just have to give up nap time to get your exercise in, but the amazing thing is this: The sacrifices you make are going to have huge returns. Your body, with healthier eating and exercise, will have its own clean-burning energy system. You will be more productive. You will feel better about yourself and you will live longer with less illness. Not a bad exchange, if you ask me.
To learn more about XO Create Fitness! and our unique approach to health or to simply ask a few questions contact me at: jim@xocreate.com.
Jim Stringer is a NPTI Nationally Certified Personal Trainer and Nutritional Consultant. Over the years Jim has applied his unique style of coaching and training to help individuals of all ages reach their fitness and lifestyle goals. Jim approaches everything he does with a creative viewpoint and focus on reaching objectives without compromise. His fun positive outlook motivates others in seeing their true potential and an enjoyable and flexible way to get there.
