Change In 5 Weeks
“I thought I was pretty in shape for my age”
We recently received an email from Bob Gill, a member at Punch Gym Norwalk, who wrote such a moving and amazing letter regarding the training he was receiving from Stef and Kat that with his permission we’ve reprinted it all for you to read and enjoy.
I bought some kettle bells last year, and bought your Newport DVD for my son. We lifted a lot, and I learned some, but mostly I got a sore back. When looking at your AOS website for the three hundredth time, I noticed there was a local franchise that had opened up. I signed up for the free intro session, then the five week intro package, and my fitness world was turned upside down. I’m just now moving from 5 week intro to member.
“…my fitness world was turned upside down.”
I work out with Stef and Kat at Punch Gym in Norwalk CT.
Simply put, Stef is not only a pro, but one of those gems that can be tough, a little easier when an old guy is ready to vomit, but most importantly, she’s obviously internalized not only what to do and why, but can explain alternate ways of doing exercises and moves so that every student can internalize it as well. When kettle bells are used wrong, like I was doing, it hurts and is a net negative. Taught to do it right, it’s wonderful. She KNOWS all the angles and how to repair stuff being done wrong. That’s rare.
With Stef, there’s never a criticism or negative comment, but she’s one of those people that you feel bad when you can’t complete something because you honestly feel that she wants you to succeed. I could be wrong, but I don’t think enthusiasm can be faked.. At least not for a discerning audience. That’s a huge difference from nasty trainers on the one hand or indifferent on the other.
There’s never a criticism or negative comment …you honestly feel that she wants you to succeed
There are times in class when I ask myself, what the hell am I doing here? This is humiliating, painful, and not fun right now.. Mainly because I’m used to having things under control, and here, I’m the slowpoke sissy, and women students are kicking my ass.. Then I remember boxing and wrestling training, and putting kids though it as well. Being humbled is a good thing.
But HERE’s the best part, I started my five week program at 212 lbs, with tight “large” pants. It COULD be coincidence, but with a corresponding slight diet modification, no beer or crap food, I’m 187 this morning. Think about all the BS diet and exercise stuff you see, and here’s a guy who thought he was in shape, now realizes he’s a white belt once again, but has lost 25 pounds, gained significant muscle, and was only going twice a week. Staring tomorrow, three times a week.
I’m 187 this morning…lost 25 pounds, gained significant muscle, and was only going twice a week.
FIT TIP
We got a hold of Kerry Taylor, owner and head trainer of Punch Kettlebell Gym Rumford and asked him to send us a round from one of his favorite workouts. This is today’s Fit Tip…
A round: From Hang Ten (surfers workout)Ropes Gone Wild sideways with turning squat jumps1 minute Floor Dips1 minute Burpee to 10 h2h Sumo Deadlifts1 minute Single Leg deadlift 30/30
DO THIS
STACI PICK
This is one of the best books I have read regarding food in a long time. It keeps eating simple, the way it should be. It’s real life eating plans for everyone; families, vegans, even those that need gluten free diets - check it out and let me know what you think.
EAT THIS
Go Nuts!
Here’s a quick and easy recipe for a healthy, spicy snack. It only
takes 5 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook!
1 1/2 cups pecan halves2 table spoons maple syrup2 teaspoons olive oil1 teaspoon smoked sweet paprika1/2 teaspoon salt
pinch cayenne
1. Preheat oven t 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchmentpaper. In a bowl combine all the ingredients and mix well.2. Spread nuts on the baking sheet, roast, tossing half way through,until browed.3. Let the nuts cool and serve.