As some of you know, I do some consulting work, specifically in the areas of Personal Organizing and Personal Training. I had someone mention through the Reader Survey that I should offer training services, well I do!
Now today, I have a treat for you! I get to share with you someone whom I truly adore. Cathy has been a Personal Training client of mine for the past 120 days. We just wrapped up her sessions and I’m so thrilled with her progress, not to mention the fact that I now have a new friend. 🙂
I asked Cathy to share a little bit about her experience with me and the changes she has made and how the whole consulting process worked for her. I realize the whole “virtual” concept isn’t the norm and it won’t work for everyone, but as you’ll see in her story it can be a great fit! Let’s hand the mic over to Cathy.
Why did you decide to contact me and work with me?
I have tried a variety of different weight loss programs over the years and nothing worked for me. I am not into fad diets, pills, shots, etc, I wanted a plan that would work with my lifestyle, something I could do from home. There were so many options to choose from, I did not know where to begin! I knew you could learn about anything from the internet, either by reading newsletters, blogs, or you tube. I had learned about you through ABFOL. I went through your Summer Challenge and was impressed by how you were a problem solver, simplifying large tasks into something that was doable and practical and not overwhelming. You give a lot of thought to your work, coming up with creative ideas to do a project. Most importantly, your warmth came through in your writing. You seemed like someone who would listen and care about me as a person, what my needs were and how you could help. And you seemed like you would be so much fun to work with. After working with you for 120 days, I was right on target with my impression of you!
Are you satisfied with the progress you made over the 120 days that you worked with me?
I have been more than satisfied! When you emailed me the goal list for the first week, I was blown away! It was exactly what I was looking for. In the past I was given papers and told to follow them and if I had any questions to call. For me this did not work. I live in a rural area and work from home. Traveling to a fitness center is not feasible. I must have schedules, routines and boundaries. Most importantly, I needed a plan that would work with my busy life. You started me off with small changes. After I accomplished them, you added more changes until I found a fitness program and eating plan that worked for me.
What did you find the most challenging part of developing a personal training routine and sticking to it?
The way life changes. Some weeks are “normal”, some weeks my life is so busy I am on overload. Some weeks I would be out of my normal routine with vacations, etc. On a normal week I worked up to 30 minutes of exercising a day doing videos I enjoyed. 3 days walking, 2 days strength training, yoga stretches throughout the day. On very busy weeks, rotating 15 minutes walking one day, 15 minutes yoga and doing strength training exercises throughout the days. When I was gone on vacation I did yoga and strength training in the motel room. I took the stairs and walked around the room. On weeks when it is not so cold I will rotate yoga and strength training at home and get outside to do my walking. As you can tell I like to change things up a bit.
What helped you the most as we worked together?
Helping me to find an eating and exercise plan that worked when my life changed from one week to the next. Using resources I already had available. Doing things that I enjoyed. Helping me to think of fun things that I could add to my fitness routine that I would also enjoy, such as the monthly 5k’ s. I am now doing these with my family. And lastly, your encouraging emails and Skype sessions.
Are you confident that you will be able to maintain what you have established?
Yes! After 120 days, I have learned how to deal with about anything that comes into my life. And, I know if I feel I need help, you are only a click away.
Any other feedback, thoughts, comments etc…..
As with anything in my life, I have found how important it is to find someone (or something) that is a good fit for me. We are all created differently. We all have different bodies, lifestyles and needs. It’s finding what works for you that you can live with. And I am very grateful to you for helping me!
Thank you so much Cathy for your overly kind words. I hope you know what a delight I’ve had getting to know you. You are a dream client. You are the perfect example of someone who is very ready to make positive lifestyle changes. Keep on moving and stay the course! Like we both know, “A goal without a plan, is just a wish!” Keep planning in your self-care, your exercise and your healthy eating habits. There’s nothing you can’t do!
As we move towards the new year, yikes, keep me in mind. I would love to help you if you are feeling overwhelmed with where to start, rather it be with your health maintenance (fitness/food) or home management (organization). Getting started is often the hardest part. (I offer a 30 minute {free} consultation call if you are interested in getting some more information.)
Wishing you a life well lived.
Live with intention.
