About a year ago I dragged myself out of bed one morning to face someone in the mirror I didn’t recognize. How in the world had this happened? About three years earlier I had started my gradual decline. I had taken a more sedentary job. Also, I suffered an illness that made it difficult to exercise, and the prescribed medication exacerbated the weight gain. After my recovery, however, I continued my inactive lifestyle. My weight gain was beginning to snowball and I felt physically and emotionally exhausted. My few attempts to break this cycle yielded only modest results, and I became frustrated and discouraged. At my lowest point, I felt embarrassed, ashamed, and guilty. I felt like a bad parent, sluggish and unable to keep up with my energetic child. I was resigned, however, that this was the person I had become.
I knew deep down that it would take something dramatic and intense to change my path. So, seeing an advertisement for “boot camp” piqued my interest. At my initial consultation with Clint I still felt hesitant and skeptical. Clint asked how committed I was. Because I was afraid of another failure, I cautiously answered, “80%.” Clint assured me I could see results, but only if I were 100% committed. I left the meeting feeling discouraged, but the next morning I awoke determined to face this challenge. Not knowing what to expect, I made the first step of simply showing up.
In my first two weeks, the supportive environment of boot camp carried me through the initial strain of these rigorous workouts. At my side were either those who were in my position or those who had reached the other side. Before long I not only began to drop pounds, but also noticed a boost in confidence and mood. Now I was leading my child in activities, not dragging behind, and more importantly, I had become the living example I wanted to be. Since starting boot camp I have lost 30 pounds and cut my body fat percentage by half. With the tools I’ve been given, I now know that I can maintain this for the rest of my life.
To anyone who is considering this path, I would say start by making the first simple step I made—showing up. The trainers at Raising The Barr are not only supportive, they are truly professional. Your training will surpass the average exercise class; you will receive evidence-based nutritional advice and exercise techniques. The program is holistic, helping its participants to track their physical and emotional progress. The program is also individualized, tailored to overcome the unique barriers of each person. No one need do this alone. A community awaits you that offers more than simple fad diets and gimmicks. Raising The Barr Fitness offers a new way of living and of seeing yourself.
