John’s initiative to make change.
I first noticed the AFS Ann Arbor location driving right past it on my way to work. The parking lot was always packed, both in the mornings and around 4pm when I headed home. I looked it up online and was impressed with the reviews. The Plymouth location is just a few minutes from my house, so when I saw that open up, I took it as a sign that it was time to make some changes. My family really fueled my decision to get back in shape. We have 3 children, ages 5, 3.5, and 19 months. Needless to say things are busy and I wanted to make sure I was able to keep up with them. There is a family picture in particular that, when I saw myself in it, proved I had to start doing something.
Sticking with the program and utilizing all the great benefits at AFS has allowed me to succeed. Getting into the WLS class three times a week is obviously the biggest factor. It’s really a great way to start my mornings and I certainly feel more alert and focused throughout the day. Kemper and I worked on some modifications to my eating habits as well. I now keep healthy snacks at my desk, drink plenty of water, enjoy a protein shake with some fruit for lunch, stay away from all the junk food in the work kitchen, and eat smaller portions at home. While I enjoy an occasional beer, I’ve switched over to mostly spirits when I do want a drink. Keeping active after dinner also helped. We did a lot of family bike rides and walks over the summer. Anything to keep moving!
I’ve certainly seen an increase in my energy/stamina throughout the day, especially when playing with the kids after work and on the weekends. My clothes are fitting like they used to and some are even too big now to fit me properly. Related to that, confidence is up too, especially during a hot summer where we took the family to the beach quite a bit.
MY ADVICE:
Just do it! I have made significant changes by attending AFS three hours a week and watching what I eat and drink. The hardest part for me is just getting out of bed when the alarm goes off. The workouts go quick and I really enjoy them. I come out of there happy and ready to take on the day. After seeing your results from your first assessment, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner.