Joe (pictured below) came to SLC Strength & Conditioning a little over a year ago and his story captures a sense of the hard work and commitment required to get where he is today. When we asked Joe if he would say a few words at our Birthday Bash to recognize him on his accomplishments, it was truly an inspirational experience and a lot of what he had to say about his journey is very relate able to those feelings that we’ve all had in the face of defeat. He committed to his goal of losing weight over a year ago and with a significant amount of dedication and hard work, he has accomplished a lot! Here’s his story:

“When Julie, my wife, and I initially joined SLC Strength & Conditioning last February (2017), our outlook was that we were going to sign up for a year as an investment in our health, and admittedly, I was doing it somewhat begrudgingly. I’ve always struggled with structured exercise and eating properly which is how I got into such bad shape in the first place.

Over the last year, I made some much needed changes to my diet by cutting out soda and limiting junk food, and making healthier choices with the help of my Weight Watchers App. I also incorporated regular exercise with attending the classes at SLC Strength & Conditioning. As a result, I’ve lost 45 pounds! Along with that, my formerly frequent headaches have been minimal, I’ve been sick a lot less, and I also have a lot more energy and stamina as I go about my daily routines and as I work on projects around the house. The arthritis in my knee doesn’t really bother me anymore, and I simply have fewer body aches and pains associated with getting older (and from being inactive). My mental health has also significantly improved; my overall outlook on life is much more positive, and I’m less inclined to stay at home and be a recluse. I still have a ways to go and it certainly hasn’t been easy, but my quality of life, overall, has significantly improved. 

Here we are, 12 months later, and I can honestly say it’s been one of the best investments I’ve ever made, and I plan on continuing– not just as an investment but also for enjoyment now. The positive, supportive, and fun culture we’ve experienced at SLC Strength & Conditioning has changed my perspective. All of the trainers are awesome and create a judgment-free, inspirational environment that makes me enjoy working out and believe it or not, I actually crave fruit and vegetables now…sometimes I still need a good chocolate chip cookie though and I’ve learned, that’s OK.”