My Fitness (and Mental) Transformation
We recently asked our past and present clients to send us some of their thoughts on their experience with Alter Ego Fitness. We're very happy to share the first one, from Marisa, with you:
I was introduced to my "Alter Ego" back in 2008.
A friend’s mom had signed up for a class and, over her 6-week program, I watched her transform into something everyone wants to be: Fitter, Healthier and Happier.
It changed her life and, little did I know, it was soon about to change mine. I made the commitment and signed up for 6 weeks of progressive training. I was totally freaked out! I drove directly to McDonalds to say a final farewell to bad eating. It wasn’t the smartest idea, but as I was entering a new chapter in my life I felt I needed to justify how bad I really did feel about myself . . then I got a stomach ache.
A few days later my journey began. I was still freaked out, but getting a little more excited about the thought of a “new me”. I was confident I could do it as I was pretty strong, knew how to eat well and could name at least 5 items of protein. (Note – cheese is not protein!)
I quickly learned that I didn’t know anything. This is when I realized that, even though I was going through the motions of working out, I could not change without changing my thinking. I knew this was going to be my biggest challenge in reaching my goals. But, I persevered with a ‘No Excuses’ attitude and soon realized that the nutrition component of the program is essential to one’s success.
On my first day of class, I showed up without having eaten anything. I almost didn’t make it through the warm up. I thought “What have I gotten myself into?” I looked around at the other exhausted class members and thought, “I'm not alone and if they can do it, so can I!” It’s amazing how setting goals and wanting to achieve them can push you through to success. To this very day, when I find myself slacking off in my workouts because “I’m tired” or am just being lazy, I think about how far I have come. This, along with not wanting to disappoint myself or my trainers, always gets me through the workout . . and I feel awesome afterwards!
This brings me to the other key component of the program: the Alter Ego Trainers. Exceeding my expectations from the beginning, they care about each participants individual fitness goals and are committed to getting you there by encouraging, supporting and pushing you to levels you never thought you’d reach (and believe me, you can reach them). Their knowledge of fitness and nutrition is incredible and they make the class fun. Best of all, they believe in you when you don’t and to me this is what makes them the “A Team" of Trainers.
Here I am 4 years later. I’ve altered my "self", I’ve altered my mind.
Alter Ego is indeed a “Fitness Experience” that I recommend to anyone that will listen. They gave me the confidence, and tools, to become everything I’ve always wanted to be: Fitter, Healthier and Happier!
Thank you very much Marisa for your endorsement of our program. We're always very encouraged, and appreciative, when our clients are so happy with their results that they recommend us to their family and friends.
Enough said for now. Until next time, I remain . . . "Yours in fitness"
I’m very proud to say that I’m Marisa’s mom. I’ve seen many positive changes in her since she began your alter ego classes. Amazing. I’m an RN. Having said that, my daughter has educated me with such valuable information regarding exercise, nutrition, food preparation, as well as the importance of making healthy food choices. She has incorporated all her knowledge into a consistent healthy lifestyle. She speaks from the heart. So thank you alter ego! You’ve made a difference not only in her life, but mine. Pay it forward!
I am so pleased to hear that what I try to explain to clients, about alternative ways to eat and live, not only affect them but their families too. I only want us all to realize that with a change of ‘mind’ there comes a change in life. Thank you for your kind words and, I also wanted you to know, Marisa is such a fun client to work with!
Marisa! I am so incredibly honoured to have had the opportunity to train you and assist you with your health and wellness goals. You always bring such positive energy to the classes, even when you’re tired! Keep up the great work and I look forward to seeing you soon. Maybe you’ll even bring some of those lentil power balls as a token of appreciation.
This is amazing to hear, Marisa! One of the many reasons why I love being a fitness trainer – seeing such huge transformation in people, both mentally and physically. Great work! I’ve always enjoyed training you in the AEFE classes. Your humour and fun energy is contagious. Keep up the great work!
Marisa’s story echo’s mine. I thank the Alter Ego Fitness staff for their great support. I am typing this while my beeper is going to tell me my quinoa is ready. Cooking for a meal today and other meals next week. Next is the lentil power balls!
Tirza: Thank you too for your comments. I really do strive to give as much support as I possibly can and all of the Trainers do the same! Sounds like you’re prepping in the kitchen so that you don’t get ‘caught’ during your very busy week which is always key in ensuring that you eat for what your body needs! I’ll be posting more recipes too. So, stay tuned. And, if you liked the lentil power balls you’ll love my pizza crust and almond hummus!