BOOTCAMPER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES 2011

10. MAUREEN FLEMING

1. How long have you been coming to PhysicallyFit? I have been coming to Physically Fit since April 2010. The inspiration to join PhysicallyFit was when I saw my daughter’s 3rd grade teacher’s amazing arms and asked where she got them. I am so glad I asked her.

2. What were your goals when you started? My goals were to lose weight, get back in shape, exercise on a regular basis and make my health a priority along with all the other priorities I have in life. To be ‘Physically Fit’ again!

3. What results have you seen in yourself? What have others seen? The results have all been positive. I see the difference on the scale, in my clothes and just have loads of energy. Others have been very supportive in telling me that they see the difference and to keep up the good work. No matter how old we get it is still nice to hear from your mom that you look great and keep it up because a happy family starts with a happy mom.

4. What is your biggest motivator? My biggest motivator is my family. I want to be a positive role model for them, and not just be on the sidelines telling them they need to do this and that. I sometimes see it at the soccer games where we are telling the kids to do this and that, but I think to myself when was the last time you ran on a soccer field, it is time for all of us to get up and get moving.

A great quote that is so true is ‘The secret of getting ahead is getting started.’
– Mark Twain

5. What other accomplishments have you achieved outside of bootcamp this year? (i.e., Outside exercise habits or activities, nutrition habits, races, etc. ) As a family, we have just made ourselves more active by going for hikes, skiing, bike riding and swimming at the Local Y. I am planning on doing some 5Ks with my daughter in the spring and summer at local races. I find it really inspiring to see all the different ages and shapes and sizes at the races. There is definitely positive energy at those races.

6. What does being nominated for Bootcamper of the Year mean to you? It means a lot to me. I wish this could be a group award because I really enjoy the strong sense of community that I get from being part of Physically Fit. I see how everyone has different responsibilities and obligations, but have made an effort to make sure that they are fitting these workouts in their life. I also get inspired by the various bootcamp members who push themselves to go faster or lift heavier weights or wake up at the wee hours to get that important workout in. It is amazing the feeling you get after a good workout. It really helps to put everything in perspective. There are definitely times I can talk myself out of coming to a class, but I think of that feeling I get once I have accomplished the workout and realize to just go and do it.

BOOTCAMPER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES 2011

9. KATE ZAK

1. How long have you been coming to PhysicallyFit?
Since March. I was hooked after the first week – despite the burpees and the pain I was in!

2. What were your goals when you started?
Loose some weight, get back in shape, not to kill myself during burpees (burpees suck!!)

3. What results have you seen in yourself? What have others seen?
I've lost over 2 pant sizes, I feel better than ever. For me bc is a great way to relieve the stress.

4. What is your biggest motivator?
Now it's getting ready for TM and finishing it without breaking anything (and getting the tshirt!), being able to eat and drink what I want, but the biggest one is Marry – she inspires me:) she is my partner in crime I mean workouts.

5. What other accomplishments have you achieved outside of bootcamp this year? (i.e., Outside exercise habits or activities, nutrition habits, races, etc. )
Hopefully I won't die during 5k on the New Year's Day.

6. What does being nominated for Bootcamper of the Year mean to you?
It is a tremendous honor simply to be mentioned alongside the other individuals. I was very surprised and didn’t expect it at all. Does it mean I will stop hating burpess? Of course not! Burpees Suck!

BURPEES SUCK!

BOOTCAMPER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES 2011

8. CARRIE THERRIAULT

1. How long have you been coming to PhysicallyFit?

I started working out at PhysicallyFit in August 2009.

2. What were your goals when you started?

I didn’t have a set goal for myself when I came to PF. I was interested in trying something new after working out at the same local gym for several years.

3. What results have you seen in yourself? What have others seen?

If I was asked this question a year ago I would have probably rattled off answers related to weight loss or a smaller jean size. In looking back at my first year at PF I was focused solely on what I looked like, and how the workouts were affecting my weight and body.

Over the last year the changes that I have experienced have been more related to personal growth than physical change. And while I don’t recall exactly when the shift occurred, at some point I decided it was time to raise the bar, challenge myself and for the first time set a fitness goal. So I did, I set a goal and shared it with no one. If I said it out loud there might be real accountability involved!! ;-). And so it began...

The feeling of pushing beyond what I thought I could do was…...well…. I still don’t really have the right words for it. The reward of getting that hard to describe feeling became the motivator. For those of you smiling to yourself because you’ve experienced it, you know it’s pretty damn awesome and few things rival it. Pushing past my limits, holding myself accountable for my own progress translated to a confidence that I didn’t own prior to coming to PF. Who would have thought that setting a goal and going after it could be so powerful! ☺

The personal growth that has resulted from my work at PF and its influence in my life is the ultimate result. And while it’s not a result that can be seen, I think a few have noticed. All that being said, it doesn’t suck that along the way I lost a few pounds, got stronger, healthier, and met some amazing people.

4. What is your biggest motivator?

It goes without saying that my family and friends are a constant inspiration for me to be the best version of me that I can be, and that surrounding myself with positive people serves me well. Not to be underestimated is the power of simple things like lyrics to a song, a great quote at the right time, a story of overcoming adversity, or seeing someone work hard.

But when it all comes down to it the greatest motivation for me, comes from within. I am taken with the idea that none of us really know our own personal limits and what we can achieve. The potential of that keeps me wondering about myself.

5. What other accomplishments have you achieved outside of bootcamp this year? (i.e., Outside exercise habits or activities, nutrition habits, races, etc. )

I must admit my eating habits are decent but might not be worthy of Bootcamper of the year status so there’s a new goal for myself! I was lucky enough to complete a Spartan Race and several Tough Mudder events with some amazing PFers over the last year. By far completing these events were some of the best experiences of my life. In the last year I ran several road races with friends and most memorably the New Haven 5k with my son Jack.

6. What does being nominated for Bootcamper of the Year mean to you?

Of course it feels great to be considered by Chris and Jodi as a Bootcamper of the year nominee. Who wouldn’t like to be recognized for their efforts? And although I don’t specifically know who any of the other nominees are, I do know there are many worthy bootcampers among us. I think it’s safe to assume that I am in pretty badass company.

To be honest, responding to these questions felt a little like Tough Mudder training at times and turned out to be more difficult for me than I thought! This process has given me opportunity to reflect on what my time at PF has given back to me and share it with you. Maybe some of you will read this and in some way relate to my experiences. Many of you in your own unique ways have motivated and pushed me over the last two years, hopefully I have been able to do the same.

Lastly, I would like to thank Jodi and Chris. Their impact on me has gone well beyond the workouts and day to day training. Thank you Jodi for your encouragement and ongoing support for whatever I take on, and Chris, your “shut up and just do it” approach works for me. I couldn’t have accomplished what I have over the last two years without you. THANK YOU!

BOOTCAMPER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES 2011

7. EAMON O'CONNOR

1. How long have you been coming to PhysicallyFit?

I have been coming to Bootcamp at PhysicallyFit for two and a half years, beginning in May 2009.

2. What were your goals when you started?

When I started my goal was to get back into shape. I had exercised at least five days a week, in the pre-children stage of life, that included Basketball, Running, Softball and Football. I had let that drop off as working and family took up time and I wasn’t motivated to make time for other things. My wife, Terri, had been doing bootcamp with Chris and Jodi for a while and enjoyed the workouts. I had tried to workout on my own at home but it wasn’t fun. I tried Bootcamp and it became addictive. The workouts are not boring and the group of people are fun. I started to get back into shape and then began raising the bar. I then wanted to do the exercises at the highest levels and got my competitive drive back.

3. What results have you seen in yourself? What have others seen?

I feel like I am in great shape. I have lost weight since I started bootcamp and have toned up my body. I also see that my endurance in exercise has increased but more importantly my endurance in all other activities in life has increased.

Others have noticed that I have lost weight and that I don’t stop doing things. It could be exercise, having fun with family or just being active.

4. What is your biggest motivator?

My biggest motivator is my wife and kids. I want to stay healthy and be able to spend time going places, exploring and having fun with them. The better shape I can remain in the more I can do and cherish. I want to play sports with my wife as well as teach and play sports with my girls. Life with them is great and I want to extend that as long as possible.

5. What other accomplishments have you achieved outside of bootcamp this year? (i.e., Outside exercise habits or activities, nutrition habits, races, etc. )

If I’m not around for bootcamp due to work or vacation travel I try to get in at least the same amount of exercise as I would at home. I take some bootcamp workouts with me to do at the hotel gym or outside. I’d get stared at while doing them but I’m getting a much better workout than the people on the treadmills staring at me! I try to eat healthy which is easier as we do it as a family. I try to get exercise in whatever way I can. I walk up and down the stairs in my office rather than take an elevator. I also like playing sports (Basketball and running) with my family which helps us all and keeps me motivated and competitive as I don’t want to lose!

6. What does being nominated for Bootcamper of the Year mean to you?

Being nominated as Bootcamper of the Year is an amazing honor! Knowing the group of people that do Bootcamp at PhysicallyFit and being chosen as one of the group of twelve that have been nominated is an incredible accomplishment. This will boost my motivation level up another step and raise the bar to reach the next level.

Thank You!

BOOTCAMPER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES 2011

6. BETSY HOPWOOD

1. How long have you been coming to PhysicallyFit?

I have been coming to Physically Fit for about five years.

2. What were your goals when you started?

I was trying to lose that last bit of baby weight after my second child was born and after the first class, I knew Physically Fit was the place where I could do that.

3. What results have you seen in yourself? What have others seen?

I have always loved running, but I never really had any muscle definition. After having kids, I couldn’t get away with just running because nothing comes back the same. I was hoping adding resistance and weight training I could get my body back to pre-baby shape. When I was pregnant with my third child, I came to boot the entire pregnancy but still managed to gain 65 pounds. I felt a little insecure that I wouldn’t be able to lose it a third time. I took it one pound at a time. Seeing everyone at boot gave me confidence and I was so happy when I finally shed that weight.

4. What is your biggest motivator?

Knowing that if I stop I will lose everything I worked so hard to attain and coming to boot and seeing my friends

5. What other accomplishments have you achieved outside of bootcamp this year? (i.e., Outside exercise habits or activities, nutrition habits, races, etc. )

Tough Mudder, Ragnar Relay, Merrill Down and Dirty, several 5ks. The highlight for me was running a 5k with my six year old daughter.

6. What does being nominated for Bootcamper of the Year mean to you?

Everyone at boot is an inspiration. They all motivate me to push myself, so it’s a real honor.

BOOTCAMPER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES 2011

#5 LIZ BEARDSLEY

1. How long have you been coming to PhysicallyFit?
I started in January of 2008. I was desperate to find a bootcamp class, and located PhysicallyFit online. It was located in Huntington Center at the time, which was close. I called up to inquire about the schedule, and Jodi called me right back, encouraging me to try that evening’s class. I did, and I don’t think I’d ever been more overwhelmed by my own inadequacy in my life, but all that was internal, Jodi and Chris were so encouraging and positive that I was hooked and knew that this was surely the exercise regime I was looking for. It took me about a week and a half to heal enough to attempt a second try, though.

2. What were your goals when you started?
At first I just wanted to lose weight. I didn’t think that my endurance was too bad because I did a little running. But once I started coming, each class held a challenge. Getting through one Burpie gradually became 10, knee push-ups became toes. I never lacked an improvement objective! I still think about weight loss as a goal, mainly because it’s been in the forefront of my conscience for so long, but being strong, healthy and feeling great is what keeps me coming back to class.

3. What results have you seen in yourself? What have others seen?
I’ve seen my physical shape change. I’ve gone from a size 14 to a size 10. I was close to not being able to find clothes in my favorite stores anymore, as I edged out of their sizing range. Now, I not only can find clothes more easily, but I’m not limited by those few certain cuts and styles that were, if not flattering, then provided good camouflage.

My husband, family and friends have all noticed the change over time. They noticed weight loss first, but it has felt great, too when they’ve caught me in a stretch (accidental?) and mentioned how toned my arms and shoulders look.

4. What is your biggest motivator?
Really, the thing that motivates me the most to keep coming to bootcamp is that I don’t want to lose any strength or endurance I’ve built up so far! Besides being fun and a great chance to see my bootcamp friends, I love the fact that I can meet or plan to meet the challenges that Jodi and Chris create for us.

5. What other accomplishments have you achieved outside of bootcamp this year? (i.e., Outside exercise habits or activities, nutrition habits, races, etc.)
Coming to PhysicallyFit means that you are surrounded by people who are dedicated to being healthy and strong. I’ve learned about ‘eating lean’, ‘eating Clean’, and ‘eating raw’ from others in class, and then read more on them on my own. I try to eat raw (which is clean and lean!) during the day, then have a more traditional dinner meal with my husband. I think this, along with bootcamp 4-5 times per week is what has made the most difference in how I feel and look.

6. What does being nominated for Bootcamper of the Year mean to you?
You know, it would be a tremendous honor to be named Bootcamper of the Year! It would also be a tremendous honor to attend my next bootcamp class with Bootcamper of the Year. I love coming to PhysicallyFit. I love the results I’ve gotten and I cherish the relationships that I’ve developed with the people I see there! If I’m named Bootcamper of the Year, how could it get any better?

BOOTCAMPER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES 2011

4. BRUCE HAFFORD

1. How long have you been coming to PhysicallyFit?

I joined PF April 2009.

2. What were your goals when you started?

My goals have changed through out my time with PF. When I started my goal was to simply not go an entire week without a workout. Than Courtney encouraged me to train for my first marathon in March 2010, so finishing a marathon became my goal. Now my goal is to finish a 70.3 Iron man with Courtney.

3. What results have you seen in yourself? What have others seen?

I am not sure what others have seen, however I have noticed a slight weight loss since I started PF. I have also noticed a drastic increase in my endurance and my strength. The most import result that I have noticed is the overall way I feel, which is the best I have ever felt in my life.

4. What is your biggest motivator?

My biggest motivator is Courtney Lane. I know it sounds cheesy, but its true. She motivates me to be a stronger and better man. The second largest motivator is my health. Heart disease is in my family and staying healthy and working the heart the way we do in PF builds confidence for a long healthy life.

5. What other accomplishments have you achieved outside of bootcamp this year (2011)? (i.e., Outside exercise habits or activities, nutrition habits, races, etc. )

2011 was a great year for me.

I ran the following races:
1. Danbury, CT 13.1 Half Marathon in March 2011
2. Burlington, VT 26.2 Full Marathon May 29th 2011.
3. Salem, MA 13.1 Half Marathon September 2011
4. Newport, RI 13.1 Half Marathon October 2011
5. Englishtown, NJ 12 mile Tough Mudder Event November 12th 2011

In addition to the above races, I play 1st base and hit 4th in a very competitive wooden bat hardball baseball league called the GHIBL, http://www.ghibl.org/.
The league is every Sunday from April to October. The Chiefs, my company sponsored team, finished in 5th.

6. What does being nominated for Bootcamper of the Year mean to you?

I take a lot of pride in everything I do. I try to lead by example and always give 100%. I take all BC classes seriously and have certainly enjoyed my personal growth and the friendships I have made at BC along the way. I am honored to be recognized with the nomination of Bootcamper of the Year 2011.

BOOTCAMPER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES 2011

#3 JENN RICCIO


1. How long have you been coming to PhysicallyFit?
I’ve been coming to PhysicallyFit for a little over a year. I started in November of 2010.

2. What were your goals when you started?
I honestly didn’t have any goals when I started. A friend invited me to try a workout. After a week of saying no, I finally agreed to try it out. I had been an athlete through college and participated in rigorous workouts before, but for some reason I was threatened by the word bootcamp. When I agreed, I had no idea what I was getting myself into; I didn’t think I could do “bootcamp”. I certainly didn’t envision going back for a second workout, signing up, or still being there a year later. I will always be thankful to my friend for introducing me to something that has changed my life.

3. What results have you seen in yourself? What have others seen? PhysicallyFit and bootcamp have changed my life. I have seen both physical and mental changes in myself. My body has completely changed; my percentage of body fat has decreased about 5%, my muscles have become more defined, I have become physically and mentally stronger and I have gained self-confidence. I try to push myself each time I complete a workout even when I’m tired and want to quit. Before joining PhysicallyFit, I didn’t have faith in myself that I could accomplish some of the things that I have accomplished over the past year. I know other people have seen these changes in me too because I have received encouragement and support from fellow bootcampers. In addition to these changes I have experienced within myself, I have also met some wonderful people at PhysicallyFit and I’m very grateful and honored to call some of them my friends.

4. What is your biggest motivator?
My biggest motivator is seeing the benefits that exercise has on my health, confidence and fitness; and knowing that after doing things I never thought I would do, I can accomplish anything I put my heart and mind into.

5. What other accomplishments have you achieved outside of bootcamp this year? (i.e., Outside exercise habits or activities, nutrition habits, races, etc. )
Because of bootcamp I completed my first 5K (and now try to race regularly), 2 Tough Mudder races (and I’m signed up for my third), ran the Newport Half Marathon in October and was bootcamper of the Month in April. I remember congratulating the first Tough Mudder NJ team and telling them how I admire what they had done because I would have never been able to do that. I also started running outside of bootcamp not only for exercise, but because it is invigorating and gratifying; I wouldn’t have been caught dead saying that before joining bootcamp! I have also sought help with my eating habits and diet in order to help support my new life style.

6. What does being nominated for Bootcamper of the Year mean to you?
I was shocked when I received this nomination, but I am very grateful that my hard work has not gone unnoticed. There are many people at PhysicallyFit who have inspired and motivated me over the past year. The nomination alone is very rewarding and will only push me to work harder!

BOOTCAMPER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES 2011

2. Jeff Davis

1. How long have you been coming to PhysicallyFit?
2 ½ years. Since July 2009.

2. What were your goals when you started?
My goal was to find a group training environment that would continually challenge and motivate me to become stronger, faster and leaner. Pushing myself to new levels is great, but equally important is not to lose ground as I age by maintaining a healthy weight, flexibility, strength, and agility.

3. What results have you seen in yourself? What have others seen?
I feel great! I can honestly say I’m in the best shape of my life. I was never an athlete as a child, but I feel like it now. Although appearance is a secondary goal, it is always great to have clothes fit better, and to have your friends and family recognize you as being in great condition.

4. What is your biggest motivator?
I am inspired by Chris, Jodi, my great fellow bootcampers, and sometimes by fear. When training up for an event like Tough Mudder, I am motivated by a healthy dose of fear of the unknown, and of the challenges ahead of me.

5. What other accomplishments have you achieved outside of bootcamp this year? (i.e., Outside exercise habits or activities, nutrition habits, races, etc. )
Outside of bootcamps, I regularly run and lift weights as a complement to the bootcamp training. I completed my second Tough Mudder in November with the awesome PhysicallyFit team, and ran in the Sprint for Monroe back in April.

6. What does being nominated for Bootcamper of the Year mean to you?
It’s a great feeling to be recognized as a dedicated bootcamper! I look forward to bootcamps as much for the camaraderie as the workout itself. It’s great to be a part of such a motivated bunch of people that are all working to improve their health and fitness.

BOOTCAMPER OF THE YEAR Nominees 2011

1. Shannon Sampar

1. How long have you been coming to PhysicallyFit? 3 ½ Years, I think.

2. What were your goals when you started?
• I was in need of a different type of workout, Curves wasn’t cutting it ☺, nor was the gym
• Needed motivation to workout
• Wanted to see a change physically, tone up, the whole 9 yards
• Once engaged, wanted to be in shape for my wedding

3. What results have you seen in yourself? What have others seen?
• WAY More than any of the above goals mentioned
• I never knew exactly what my body truly was capable of both physically and mentally. There are some days where I still think I have a lot more to push towards. I always want to do better.
• Getting in shape for my wedding quickly became a goal of the past
• The results I have found, with Physically Fit, are far more important than getting in shape for one event in my life. The results have been and continue to be, totally life changing.
• Specific results:
Healthy Eating for Life Choices: Bootcamp makes me want to eat healthy. Sounds crazy, but its true. If I eat crap, it sucks working out and there is nothing more I hate than having a shitty workout. The whole point is to push yourself and reap the rewards when you’ve completed a kick ass workout. Making healthy choices is a very natural choice now(wasn’t so much prior to Bootcamp). Don’t get me wrong, I still indulge, but I feel I’m smart about it. Bootcamp has helped me to think and act in such a way. I like the way I feel when I eat healthy and workout. Period.
Stamina/Endurance to run a number of 5k’s, 2 5 mile races, a 10K, the ffld ½ marathon, Tough Mudder VT. I look back and remember when I never thought I’d be able to do any of that. But I did and it was freakin awesome.
Mental Stability: Some people find shopping to be therapeutic, others a box of Godiva chocolates, and some- their therapist. For me it’s Bootcamp. It’s the point of pushing yourself when you really don’t think you have anything left, but you do. And when you’re done it feels amazing. This mentality has spilled over in my day to day life. I see it in decisions I make at my job, or helping friends and family members overcome hardships in their own lives. I myself have had some pretty difficult things to deal with over the past couple of years and Bootcamp was my outlet. It’s where I come and find myself surrounded by positive people who yearn for the same addiction I do. This positivity helps me to lead a more positive life. It helps to be thankful for what I am capable of and for the life I have.
Physically: I leave this for last. It’s interesting how it used to be at the top of my list. It’s still pretty high up there. However, I have learned that without the above, being the best I want to be is unattainable. I need to make healthy eating choices if I want to get the best out of my workouts and build the stamina/endurance I need to improve. With that being said, I need a strong mentality to keep my endurance going. I have to want it, and my mentality has helped me with that. From all of this put together, I feel great. At this point there’s no need for a scale because I know I worked my ass off and that’s the best I can do.

4. What is your biggest motivator?
My biggest motivator is the positivity that surrounds me at Bootcamp. Chris and Jodi, and now Steph, are amazing instructors. They are so helpful and are constantly pushing us to do more. I freakin love it. I also watch other clients overcome their challenges and improve every day, it’s great. I feel proud of them. Pride. It makes me want to strive to be better too. From this everything else comes into play. The hunger to throw a ball harder into the ground, to run faster, or to do 2 more reps when I don’t think I possibly can.

5. What other accomplishments have you achieved outside of bootcamp this year? (i.e., Outside exercise habits or activities, nutrition habits, races, etc. )
See above Number 3. Kinda got carried away with that one ☺

6. What does being nominated for Bootcamper of the Year mean to you?
Oh my Gosh! is what I really thought when I first got the email. Floored. I feel truly honored and grateful. I also feel that without the physically fit community, there is no way I’d be where I am today. So cheesy, but so true.

My friends and family who have never come to Physically Fit think I’m crazy “Are you still doing that bootcamp stuff?”. “Hell Yea” is my answer.

P.S.-Thank you Tracie Reda for inviting me to that class on the River Walk that day. It’s made a world of difference in this gal’s life.

Val Imery Essay

Why do I deserve to win
I don’t know why I deserve to win; I actually think everybody deserves to win. All of us put
a lot of effort in each class every week, some or all of us made some adjustments in our eating
habits, but with one thing in mind; “hope this week goes by fast”.
I know we are used to having a winner and a looser; at least that’s what life teaches us. But I
don’t think it’s always like that.
I wouldn’t like to be in the position of choosing “A” winner, for me we are all winners as of the
moment we made the commitment of living a healthier life.
I just want to congratulate (it’s over!!) everyone that participated and went thru
weighting our selves, knowing how much FAT we have in different places of our body, (as if we
didn’t know) and painful exercises.
To Jodi and Chris, thank you for making me actually enjoy every class, (with or without pain)
That not only helped me lose weight, stay fit and be healthier.
I know I’ll see all of you, because there is no way that we can quit such an addicting pain.


Love
Val.

SC Essay

Hi there. I wanted to take a moment of your time to introduce you to The New Me. She isn’t perfect, but she’s a lot better than The Old Me. The transformation has begun over the last 7 weeks or so, and progress is being made. The New Me looks better, feels better, and has a much better attitude about fitness and health than The Old Me.

In terms of fitness, The New Me has been making it to bootcamp much more often (3-plus times a week for 6 of the 7 weeks of the contest). Unlike The Old Me, she gets on the treadmill on days when she’s not at bootcamp and swings kettlebells in her basement, even when no one is looking. She feels stronger and healthier in every aspect of herself.

In terms of lifestyle, The New Me has changed her eating habits completely. Only in the more rare occasion will she have sweets (she had one tiny bite of wedding cake at a recent friend’s wedding; you’ll forgive her). She’s switched to a high protein, low carb diet and feels so much better for it. While The Old Me would go to work dinners a few nights a week and drink beers, eat fried appetizers and pasta entrees, The New Me has a glass of red wine, lightly dressed salad and a healthy protein for an entrée. What a difference that makes!

Overall, The New Me is making progress. She has started on a journey and has finally mentally grasped that the goal of physical fitness IS attainable. She plans to continue making these strides and will not turn back. You will not be seeing The Old Me again! In fact, The New Me feels so rewarded with her journey already, that if she wins the contest she would like Jodi and Chris to donate her winnings to a charity close to her heart. That will make this contest doubly gratifying.

SC

Jane Seyer Essay

Me Transformed


I turned into a slug. A couch sitting, Oreo eating, beer drinking slug. It started just after Halloween. My exercise routine was boring. Rather than change my routine, I used the “Holidays are too busy” excuse and quit exercising. I wish I could say the Oreos and beer were a new addition to my diet. However, I must admit they are very old friends.

Being a slug was very easy. It was not fun or rewarding or healthy. It was just easy.

In mid-January, I checked out my backside in the mirror. When I saw my mother’s lumpy a*s in my pants, I knew something had to change. So, I had a little chat with myself.

“Jane,” I said, “you are a slug. Your clothes no longer fit. You eat half a box of Oreos and drink at least one beer a day. You are not sleeping well. And, you feel like crap. Get off the couch and back to the gym. Now!”

“Fine!” I said, “On two conditions. One, I am not doing the same boring exercise routine. And two, I am not giving up my Oreos and beer.”

So, I started the Boot Camp Transformation along with my friend, Val. At first, the change was very painful. Every muscle hurt and my body screamed at me to reclaim my position on the couch. But, each week, it got a little easier, a little less painful, and it was never boring.

Now, at the end of the six weeks, my clothes fit better, I sleep better, I am stronger, and I feel much better. Most surprising of all, I have stopped craving Oreos. Not only have I stopped craving them, I actually feel a little sick when I eat them. As for the beer. . . let’s just say recycling day is much less embarrassing.

My slug days are over.

Jane Seyer

Talia Fedorowich Essay

While sitting in a bar having a beer and eating a pizza with my husband, I
bumped into an old friend. Out of nowhere, she suggested that I consider
joining her in the Transformation Contest at Physically Fit. Well maybe it
wasn't out of nowhere, considering I was eating pizza and drinking beer - she
probably thought she was rescuing me! 7 Weeks later and looking back, truth is,
I think she was.



Long time ago, I was a Division One college athlete in the best health and shape
anyone could ask for. I loved the energy I had, the way I felt inside and out
and the way I looked, what woman doesn’t like to be happy with the way she
looks, right? It didn’t come easy, training, exercise, and good nutrition takes
work, but it was a commitment I made to myself and my team.


Somewhere along the road, I lost some of that. Everyone is busy, everyone has
competing priorities and I am just like everyone else in that sense, but I lost
the commitment and the motivation to feel good about my body. With my 5 year
wedding anniversary approaching this spring, my husband and I booked a trip to
the Caribbean, the first big trip we will be taking since our honeymoon.
Completely elated to be getting away, but the shock set in – I will need to be
seen by others in a bikini!



So my journey to become physically fit began, thanks to my friend Samira and
that night in the bar. Although I was so sore I could not walk for nearly a
week when I started, my commitment never faltered; my motivation to get myself
back to the place of feeling good inside and out was always in sight. While the
seven weeks are over and behind me, the road in front of me is clearly marked.
I am so happy to have found this program at Physically Fit and that Chris and
Jodi have welcomed me in. I can feel my strength, I can see my toned arms and
legs, and I am wearing my clothes (and soon, that bikini!) more proudly; I see
none other than this feeling continuing.

Talia Fedorowich

Jamie Ambrose Essay

Since I have joined bootcamp I have never felt better about myself. Bootcamp has definitely made my arms have definition and has increased my endurance. Before bootcamp my arms looked long and lanky, now I actually have some definition which has boosted my self esteem. I am also able to run under 10 minute miles which I am super proud of. I am not looking to lose any weight for the transformation contest but looking to gain muscle, become leaner and have more endurance.



Since the transformation contest ended I can only hope that I have increased muscle mass and also have become a little leaner. I believe that I have become stronger due to my increase in dumbbell and kettle bell weights and have been practicing my straight leg pushups at home to get stronger. I am also determined to get stronger and have more endurance for the Tough Mudder that is coming up.



I don’t really deserve anything from this contest but a pat on the back for the commitment I have made to myself. I come to bootcamp 4 to 5 times a week which shows how dedicated I am to myself to get in better shape.



Coming to bootcamp and seeing how fit everyone is and is getting has kept me motivated, not to mention the awesome trainer’s good music and ever changing workouts! Bootcamp is by far the best way to get and stay in shape!



Thank You Jodi and Chris.



Jamie Ambrose

Alicia Feller Essay

“I hope some day I can do straight leg push-ups,” I used to think on a regular basis. Then I entered the transformation contest for boot camp. And discovered I can do straight leg push-ups. 18 of them before going to my knees to finish out the minute test. Who knew?

The transformation contest started out for me as motivation to lose weight, sculpt my body and become a pseudo-supermodel in 6 weeks. An “outside” transformation. It’s so much more. The internal transformation I’ve under gone is just as important as the external. I used to think I couldn’t fit more than 2 workouts in a week. I’ve been doing 3, usually 4 and discovered it’s easy when it’s a priority. I’ve upgraded to the purple band, heavier weights, adding advanced moves when I used to think, “I can’t.” That’s not an option for me anymore. I’ve developed a positive, can-do attitude and try to share it with others.
It’s the end of the 6 weeks. I’m not the pseudo-supermodel I imagined…yet. The transformation doesn’t stop here for me. I will continue. My clothes are looser, several people told me they see weight loss, and my boyfriend sees definition in my shoulders and abs. I’m stronger. My body can do anything I put my mind to! There’s been transformation externally, and equally so, internally. All of those things, plus the confidence I’ve developed and knowledge of what my body can, and will do, make me the winner of the transformation contest. See you all on the pseudo-supermodel runway!

Alica Feller

Karen Garrett Essay

March 11, 2011

The six or seven weeks are up and while I don’t look how I had envisioned myself to look in that timeframe, I have to say that I feel a lot better about myself and the way I look than I did at the beginning of this contest. I feel myself getting stronger each week and I know I’m on my way to achieving my fitness goals. Physically Fit and the bootcamp transformation contest have helped motivate me to get back into a workout routine and to make time in my busy schedule for myself and my health. While I’m not sure if I’m the most deserving to win this contest, I do know that I am not going to stop my new routine just because the contest has ended.

Karen Garrett

Mary Cavaleri Essay

Transformation Essay

Before joining Bootcamp, I ate a low-fat diet, and exercised five days a week. But my exercise regimen meant going to the gym, getting on a bike, and reading. I had been sidelined by a series of surgeries, and believed I wasn’t capable of much more than sitting on a bike to nowhere in a dank gym, inhaling high-powered antiseptic cleaner fumes.

Over the summer, a friend recommended I try Bootcamp. I said I didn’t have the time-I already exercised, after all. But I gave it a try one day a week. When I started, I couldn’t do two full push ups, and skipped the knees-to-chin exercises all together because I had no core strength.

When the transformation contest started, I reasoned if someone was going to win, why couldn’t it be me? However, I was doubtful I would be able to meet the minimum attendance requirements. Yet not only did I consistently attend four times a week, I weathered many obstacles, including sick babysitters, dental surgery and lock jaw, and navigated severe snow and ice in a car with only rear wheel drive. I also have a two-hour commute to work each way, yet got up at 5:00 AM to get to Bootcamp and then start my journey into the city.

Am I the strongest or fittest person at Bootcamp? No. But I believe I embody the spirit of the transformation contest-I have transformed how I see myself. My physical limitations from the surgeries have become an afterthought, and no longer define who I am or what I am capable of. I truly have Bootcamp to thank for that. And for pushing me to now be able to do 25 full pushups (on a good day) and 1-minute knees to chin exercises.

-Mary A Cavaleri

Mo DeMott Essay

I don’t feel that I deserve any award for transformation because I feel as though the last 7 weeks have only been the beginning of a commitment to transforming into a new me.

This August I will be turning 40 and it’s a big deal for obvious reasons but for me there’s a bigger significance. When I was 25 my sister died suddenly from an asthma attack at the age of 39. She left behind a great husband and three beautiful girls. Lisa was 14 years older than me and I looked up to her my whole life and wanted to be just like her……a beautiful person, and what made Lisa beautiful was her kindness, her gentle loving approach to her children, her charismatic spirit, her willingness to help anyone in need. Her smile would light up a room when she entered and she turned heads wherever she would go, not because of her outer beauty (she was gorgeous) but because you could feel her warmth and grace and wanted to be around her.

For the past 14 years I’ve thought about my sister everyday and have tried to live my life in a way that would honor her but to be honest I’ve gotten knocked down a few times and sometimes it was easy to get up and brush it off but other times I stayed down longer than I wanted to and got up slower than I wished. So I made a promise to myself that when I turned 40 it would be a new beginning for me to be the best person I could be and to really live and embrace LIFE!

I want to be a better wife and a better mom to my two boys, one of which is on the Autism Spectrum. The only way I know how to do this is to first become a better me, and the way to do that is to be healthier and stronger. I know that my physical appearance is just that…..but when I exercise regularly I feel better, physically and spiritually and let’s face it fitting into my favorite jeans is an added bonus that puts an extra bounce in my step! So transforming is an evolution and not something I expect to achieve in 7 weeks.

On my 40th birthday I will be raising my glass high and I know my sister will be there in spirit to celebrate my life and in turn I will be celebrating her, she made everyday count and lived life to the fullest and given the chance to live a long and happy life is a gift that I will not take for granted. I intend to cherish my husband and children and make it COUNT!

Mo DeMott

Terri O'Connor Essay

Physically Fit Transformation Contest
March 9, 2011

I entered the transformation contest because I was in need of a challenge. Luckily I don’t have much weight to loose, but I could always be stronger and leaner. I entered the contest to test my ability to get stronger in a limited period of time. I have been working hard by attending as many classes as my schedule would allow, most weeks I attended three classes, a few weeks four classes. At each class I have been pushing myself, doing the hardest versions of the exercises, straight leg dips, jumping slams, trying not to resort to my knees for the endless push-up sessions Jodi and Chris have been giving us, etc. After every class, no matter how hard the class, I have been doing one minute of push-ups and a minute of those horrible squats. I have gotten much stronger. I started with 30 straight legged push-ups and the other day I did 50! Who would have thunk? I can do many more squats now but I have a hard time counting them as I keep checking my watch to see when it is going to be over.

In the end I hope I don’t win, I hope some people who entered the contest have kicked butt, lost their desired amount of weight and have gotten stronger, leaner and in better shape. In the event no one out there lost a lot of weight, then consider me for the winner hopefully based on the measurements and the testing.

Thanks,

Terri O’Connor

Eamon O'Connor Essay

Transformation Contest Essay - Physically Fit Bootcamp

March 11, 2011

I entered the transformation contest with the desire to participate in a "fun" event held by Jodi and Chris. I didn't know what to expect, but figured a physical challenge is always worthwhile. I knew that I could lose some weight, but would the amount be big enough? As weight isn't the only measure, it made the event more interesting.

The initial testing stage set the bar for me. I usually take class three days a week. After class, regardless of intensity, I push myself to do 30 straight leg push-ups. I was surpassed by a number of people in the push-ups in the initial testing phase, which put my competitive mode in gear.

Since the initial testing I've pushed to get stronger. I raised the after class push-ups to 40, 45, then 50 and am still trying to go higher. Then do one minute of squats and usually get 50 in. This gets done no matter what intensity class is. I know my competitive nature has kicked in and am pushing myself to do better. I am using heavier weights and trying to do all exercises at the highest level. I definitely feel in better shape than before the contest began!

My daughters say I should win the contest "because I do push-ups and squats after each class." I don't think that I will win on the weight loss, but I am hopeful that based on measurements and push-ups and squats that I will be pushing to the top.

Thanks,

Eamon O'Connor

Transformation Contestants Simple Eating Rules

We wanted to post an email we got from one of our transformation contestants. As you all know, eating or "diets" can be very hard and challenging. The ironic thing is it really is very simple. See what Courtney has to say below...

"I'm just eating super clean(lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, a small amount of healthy fats like almond butter, avocados and olive oil) and decided to cut out all gluten and dairy products for a little bit and seriously my stomach is thanking me. I'm basically eating 3 meals with 2 to 3 snacks a day, weighing/measuring my food(like 4-5oz protein for meals and 2 oz protein for snacks) and instead of having starch for dinner I'm going with different veggies(I have an amazing cookbook called Clean Start that rocks in the veggie recipe dept.).
I was going to try out the Paleo Diet but after reading it I was like "this is so unrealistic!!" I mean I get what they are talking about but I'm sick of starting crazy diets and totally failing because I feel deprived. So we shall see if this works out or not, it's kind of scary to not be following a "diet" but I think this is going to be better for me in the long run. I'll bring in my food journal tonight and see what you think and if you are curious about any recipes I can totally share with you!!"

Thanks for the insight Courtney and good luck to all of our contestants.

Chris Arnold and Jodi Schwartz

www.physicallyfitbootcamp.com