I grew up in a family where nutrition and fitness were never a priority. I never learned the importance of taking care of your body and the consequences for not doing so. As a kid, I was very active. I grew up on a farm where we were always doing something physical, I had five brothers to keep me on my toes, and I played softball, basketball, and took karate lessons. As I got older, life's events took a toll on my health. I starting have chronic migraines, back problems, my asthma was in full swing, and the numbers on the scale kept climbing. I quit playing sports, I became very shy, and had very little self esteem or confidence in myself. Physically and mentally I was falling apart.
I graduated from high school at 235 pounds. Going into college, I wanted a new start. I tried going to the gym and eating more healthily but nothing stuck. Instead I continued on my path to self destruction. I ate junk food on a daily basis, partied, and rarely exercised. Finally in 2008, when I moved out on my own, I decided to take the dive and do something about my health. I started slowly by changing a few things in my diet and by running. I remember the first time I ran; it was brutal. I made it a half of a mile and thought I was going to die. But I never quit. I ran every day until I got up to 3 miles and I became very serious about my health.
One day, I made it my goal to run a 5K. While researching 5K training, I ran across an advertisement for Dr. Phil's "Ultimate Weight Loss Race" and instantly applied. A couple of months later they called me and I went through tons of interviews and screenings. Through it all I kept on running. The producers of the show told me to "fatten up" or else I wouldn't be obese enough to be chosen. I didn't quit. That summer I lost 10 pounds. The producers were impressed with my dedication and I was flown out to California to participate in the show. I traveled the country for a month with 11 others and competed in physical challenges in Central Park, the Las Vegas Strip, Hollywood Boulevard, and Texas Stadium. Through these challenges I learned that I actually had athletic ability and that I had the desire to win and to continue improving. I met Donald Trump, Daryl Johnston of the Dallas Cowboys, got the opportunity to be on the Rachel Ray show, and much more. I got to work with Kim Lyons, trainer of "The Biggest Loser." Kim gave me the information that I needed to succeed physically and Dr. Phil gave me the attitude that I needed to succeed mentally.
When I returned home, I was a completely different person. My priorities changed, I grew up, and I took responsibility for my life. I became my biggest priority and I continue to live that way today. Exercise replaced food as my comfort. From spinning, to running, circuit training, aerobics classes, and weightlifting, I was hooked. I even became a collegiate athlete by joining the Ferris State University Track Team.
In January 2009, I discovered Kettlebells. Liberty and Jerry graciously took me in and helped me to improve my diet and my workouts. I quickly joined the cult and became a Kettlebell Addict. Nothing compared to the intensity and excitement that I found in Kettlebells. In November 2009, I competed in my first professional Kettlebell competition. Not only did I weigh in at my lowest weight since the 6th grade, but I achieved Candidate for Master of Sport.
It brings tears to my eyes to think about all of the things that I have accomplished in the last year and a half. I have lost a total of 65 pounds, I am a Certified VIP Kettlebell Coach, I've have taken on personal training clients, and I have confidence that I never thought I could have.
Certified VIP Kettlebell Trainer