September 15, 2021

Client Success (Ann Arbor)

Name: Art Okarski

Start Date: 2/11/2013

Fitness Practitioner: Jared Freeman

1) How did you hear about AFS?

AFS did a class at lunch time class at my work place to show the types of classes they offer.

2) What/Who inspired you to take the first step toward getting in shape?

Was nearing 50, was feeling tired and run down all the time. I always wanted to get in better shape but never stuck to a program for any serious amount of time and didn’t really know about the best way to get there. I thought I probably had 10 – 15 lbs to loose, haha….

3) What initially intrigued you about our program/why did you sign up?

I liked the group class setting. It helped motivate me more to work out and work out harder than if I was on my own. I would never push myself as hard on my own as I do when I attend one of their classes. Part of that is self motivation and part is the motivation from the AFS instructors leading the class.

4) How did you achieve the success you’ve seen thus far?

Sticking to the diet and exercise program my practitioner recommended. Creating an overall more active lifestyle and working out on a regular basis and eating healthier. The calorie and work out reporting helped keeping me honest and being aware of my calorie intake. I think weaving the whole plan into your lifestyle is the key.I also attended classes with a group of people from work and other people I’ve met in the classes. Having a group of people working towards the same goal keeps the motivation up.

5) What changes have you noticed in your life since starting with AFS?

I have WAYYY more natural energy than I can remember any time in my life. At 50 I feel better than I ever have in my life.

6) Advice you can offer others looking to make changes you’ve made?

Get with a program that fits your lifestyle and stay committed to it. You’ve got a find a way to work it into your lifestyle, make it a priority and stick with it.Find a friend or friends (or meet some at the gym) that want to achieve the same goal and work out together. It’s extremely helpful working out with a group of people that have the same goal in mind.

Great advice Art! surround yourself with those that will empower you!

-AFS Team

Want more info on Art’s program?

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About the Author:

Mike Stack

Michael Stack is the founder & CEO of Applied Fitness Solutions and Frontline Fitness Pros. He is a faculty lecturer for the University of Michigan’s School of Kinesiology. He is also the creator and the host of the Wellness Paradox Podcast, produced in conjunction with University of Michigan.

Michael is an exercise physiologist by training and a health entrepreneur, health educator, and fitness industry advocate by trade. He is dedicated to enhancing the standard of practice of, and advocating for, fitness and wellness professionals to ensure they become an essential constituent in the healthcare delivery system.

With a career spanning over three decades in fitness, health, and wellness Michael has a deep knowledge of exercise physiology, health/wellness coaching, lifestyle interventions to mitigate chronic disease and leadership. He is credentialed through the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) as an Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-EP), Exercise is Medicine practitioner (ASCM-EIM), and a Physical Activity in Public Health Specialist (ACSM-PAPHS). Michael is a National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA) Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), and a CDC Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) Lifestyle Coach.

Michael received his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan’s School of Kinesiology in 2004 and is currently a Master’s of Public Health (MPH) candidate at University of Michigan, with a specific concentration in health behavior and health education.

Michael is a board of directors’ member for the Physical Activity Alliance and Michigan Fitness Clubs Association. He sits on the University of Michigan’s School of Kinesiology Alumni Board of Governors. Michael is an expert curriculum reviewer for the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. Finally, he is a member of the executive leadership team for American Heart Association’s Heart Walk.

Michael lectures nationally for several health/fitness certification and continuing educations, including; IHRSA, the Medical Fitness Association, the National Strength & Conditioning Association, and SCW Fitness.