My mind was racing when I received an email from Kerry with the subject line “Congrats!!!!” Did I win the lottery? A lifetime supply of C4 Energy Drink? Nope, even better – I was selected as the Member Spotlight for October. Wow, thank you!
I grew up in Middletown, RI and was always one of the biggest kids in school. I still have my Kindergarten class photo where I tower over everyone! While I love being tall (except when flying, then it sometimes stinks), I’ve had many struggles trying to maintain a healthy weight. My usual weight-loss routine was to restrict my diet, hit the gym, hope I was doing things right, lose weight, and then gain it back. Over the years I experienced highs and lows and knew there had to be a more sustainable, long-term answer to my health and fitness goals. But what was the answer?
In early 2021, my weight started creeping up again (sigh). I was going to the gym regularly but was stuck in a rut, and my diet needed a change. I’d heard of 212 Health & Performance but was afraid to check it out. Why? I’m an introvert by nature, and I feared 212 would be too loud, too high-fiving, too…much action? Encouraged by my wife, I sucked it up and finally made an appointment. I spoke with Kerry, tried some kettlebell routines (the Turkish Getup is still my nemesis), and I decided to sign up for the introductory program. Best. Decision. Ever. Thank you Kerry!
This has been the most incredible fitness year of my life, and I can't thank 212 enough. The diverse classes, supportive community, and amazing instructors (Sean, thank you) have completely transformed my perspective on health and fitness. I've never felt stronger or more confident, and I look forward to showing up and giving it my all, even on days when I'm not feeling my best. My new mindset is to remind myself that my health and fitness journey is a continuous process. I used to think I would reach a 'finish line' and celebrate, but that mindset was hindering my goals. It's like an airplane; whenever we encounter turbulence in life, we need to remind ourselves that it's temporary and that we'll soon be back in smoother air. I love to fly so I'm always thinking of flight analogies... anyone have a First Class upgrade they can spare?
Thank you again for this honor, and I’ll see everyone in class soon!
Fun Fact (or just a fact): In 2009 I was getting close to an 80-pound weight loss and USA Today profiled me in their newspaper (full page!). While you can’t find the story online anymore, I’m sure I have a laminated copy lying around somewhere….
(Picture is of me and my son Mitchell III at Disney World, one of our favorite destinations)