Success Story- Mike Ritter

1. How did you hear about AFS?
I, like many, drive past AFS everyday on my way to and from work. About the time that the “Coming Soon” signs went up, I was contemplating a change. A change to stop the slow progression of being another year older and a few pounds heavier. While I didn’t have control over time, I did over the latter. After a thorough study of the AFS website, I decided one brave evening to send that email for a consultation. Having never joined a gym in my life, this was a big step.  Nate called me the next day and I was on my way! 🙂

2. What/Who inspired you to take the first step toward getting in shape?
In a word, age. I have struggled with weight my entire life and have seen the effects of excess weight over time. So, as I approached a milestone birthday (Starts with a 4, ends in a 0), I decided it was time to make a choice. Take control of the situation and try to head down a healthier path, or, continue down the path I was going, gaining weight slowly but steadily and telling myself that I could lose this weight if I really wanted to.  The truth was I could lose the weight, but not on my own. As I said, I had struggled with weight my whole life and didn’t really know the fundamentals of a healthy lifestyle. I needed help. I needed someone to teach me what a workout should look like. I needed someone to teach me what I should be eating and why. I needed that positive support system I didn’t have anywhere else, and that’s what brought me to AFS.

3. How did you achieve the success you’ve seen thus far?
I would attribute my success to following the advice of my practitioner, Brooke and being consistent with my eating habits and workouts. That is one of the things I really liked when I came to AFS. Brooke didn’t try to change too much too fast. We didn’t go from not working out at all to working out five times a week. Similarly, we adjusted my calorie intake and set small, achievable goals to improve my diet. It was these small, steady steps that made progress possible without making it too difficult. That brings me to the cornerstone of my success and that is good communication with your practitioner. I joined AFS because I knew I couldn’t (or wasn’t) achieving these goals on my own. I needed someone to guide me down the right path. AFS gives you a knowledgeable resource to point you in that direction, but all they can do is guide. YOU have to decide to make the changes and follow their direction. So, I would say it was a lot of hard work on my part but not without the continuous guidance and encouragement of my practitioner.  I couldn’t have done it without you, Brooke! 🙂

4. What changes have you noticed in your life since starting with AFS?
The changes in my life have been as much mental as physical. As the weight comes off and you get stronger, you find yourself able to do things you never thought possible. Along with those physical accomplishments comes great mental confidence as well. By setting and reaching goals for yourself you gain a whole new sense of self confidence in all parts of your life. I also find the workouts to be a much healthier way to relieve stress and be an overall mood enhancer. This experience has made me a better person both mentally and physically.

5. Advice you can offer others looking to make changes you’ve made?
I would say commit to it and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Weight loss takes time. We did not reach our starting weight overnight. In a world striving for instant gratification, our metabolic processes can’t keep up. Weight loss requires patience and hard work. Another key is consistency.  Try to be as consistent as you can both in diet and exercise. This will help form positive habits.  Also, don’t be too hard on yourself if you miss a workout or find yourself in the Taco Bell drive-thru. Everyday is a new day and making consistent good choices is how you are going to reach your goals. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. I struggled with weight and tried to make changes but never really knew if those changes were correct. It wasn’t until I admitted I needed help that change came. The people here at AFS will guide you down the right path and answer your questions. I also really enjoy the group workout environment. I find camaraderie in my fellow class members as we work toward a common goal. I wish you all the best in reaching your goals. 🙂

Mike, we look forward to having you here every week and couldn’t be more proud of the outstanding success you’ve had! Keep striving for more 🙂