Success Story: Norma Gauthier

Over the years I had packed on the pounds. I would attempt to lose a few pounds but then add them back on and more. Than a year ago, I had some health issues that required major surgery. After the surgery I was feeling better but the pounds continued to increase. I didn't have the energy I knew I should have. I was unmotivated and depressed with the extra weight I was carrying. I was embarrassed and had low self-esteem. I knew this was not the way I wanted to live my life. It was time to take charge of my weight and do something about this.

Diet alone was not enough to tackle the problem. I need to exercise and get fit. The extent of exercise for me was limited to walking and doing the odd workout video at home. I would promise myself over and over again that I would take the time to exercise on my own. It would happen for a while and then I would lose the motivation or something else would occupy my time.

I had not stepped into a gym since college and had never been to a fitness centre. It took a lot of courage to walk through those doors. Once I talked with the manager at GoodLife I decided I would join and give it a try. We talked about Personal Training. I didn't know anything about the equipment or where to begin in my fitness journey. I knew I could not do it alone. If I was going to work out I wanted to do it right. I wanted someone to show me the proper technique and what would work best for me. I wanted to exercise properly and safely. As a result I signed up with a professional Personal Trainer.

There have been a few obstacles that I needed to overcome through this journey. When I first started I wasn't sure if I could do it. Some days were harder than others. Self-confidence was a huge barrier. My trainer Melinda has provided me with the incentive to believe in my abilities and myself. Coordination is another obstacle I still struggle with but have made huge improvements. Melinda has incorporated exercises that challenge and work on improving my co-ordination in each of our training sessions. We are able to laugh and have fun while I am learning. We have developed a good relationship and she willingly helps me overcome any insecurities. I'm not afraid to try new things anymore, especially group classes. I participate in NewBody, BodyFlow, RPM, Yoga and Pilates. I had never wanted to be in a group setting before. I was just too self-conscious. When I first started GroupEx classes I headed for the back corner where I thought I could hide. Now I'm out of the corner and eager to watch the instructor. I get so much more out of the class.

Since May of 2007 I have weight trained twice per week with a Personal Trainer. In addition I do cardio 3 to 4 times per week. My training sessions are the highlight of my week. Melinda has given me motivation that I didn't know I had. I want to give 100% during every workout. The encouragement I receive it phenomenal. If I feel any discouragement in what I am doing my trainer seems to sense it right away and is there to build me up. My trainer is so full of energy it overflows and you can't help but let it affect you. She is a passionate instructor. Her knowledge is incredible. I feel very confident with her. She has an in-depth knowledge of how the human body works. I now know so much more about different exercises and how they target specific muscles.

My trainer Melinda has provided me with the incentive to believe in my abilities and myself. We are able to laugh and have fun while I am learning.

I have gone from a size 18 to size 8 and lost 55 pounds. My waist has decreased by 8 inches, hips by 10 inches and everything in between. My blood pressure and resting heart rate have also been reduced to a normal level. I was in the high range for many years. My doctor is so impressed with my results. Energy levels have increased dramatically. I have three children and a full time job. I'm able to take care of all these responsibilities and still have the energy to do things for myself. I don't collapse at the end of the day like I used to. I no longer struggle with the simple everyday tasks. It is easy to bend over and tie up shoes. My posture and balance have improved and I continue to work on this daily. I used to suffer from chronic neck and shoulder pain. Though training I have gained increased upper and lower body strength. The best thing for me to do after a stressful day at work is to go to the gym. My stress is gone and I feel like a new person. My quality of life has improved tremendously. Family, friends and co-workers can't get over the change in me, both physically and mentally. Some people don't even recognize me at first glance. They can't get over the change in my appearance. The compliments help to boost my self-esteem. Shopping is rewarding and enjoyable. I'm not restricted to buying certain types of clothes. At Christmas my husband said it was so easy to shop for me because there is a greater selection to choose from in my new size. I am amazed that I fit into single digit sizes.

Three most significant accomplishments:

1. Losing weight and inches.
2. Positive change in attitude.
3. Joining GroupEx classes.

When asked how I could inspire someone else to experience the success that I have recommend the following:

1. Don't let preconceived notions or misconceptions stand in the way of changing your life. Believe in yourself, all things are possible. Take it one step at a time.
2. Have a personal trainer. This will help you maintain your goals and keep you committed. Don't be afraid to get started.
3. Have fun and enjoy life's journey. You'll get out of what you put into it.

In order to maintain my accomplishments I will continue with my personal training sessions along with GroupEx classes and my own personal workout times at the gym. I am determined and committed to my new lifestyle. A healthy diet has also become a huge component. My family has now seen the changes in me. They are supportive of my time at the gym. Mom is happy and so are they. I have inspired them to be conscious of their eating habits and level of physical activity. As I was preparing this submission I have been looking at my “before” pictures and have been shocked by the reality of how much extra weight I was carrying. I never want to look like that again. It is all about momentum and I don't want to lose any of the hard work I have put in over the past few months. I am so happy. Nothing can hold me back now. I only wish I would have done this a long time ago. I never knew I could feel so good. It can only get better. I am sharing this story with as many people as possible because I am living proof.

I personally want to thank my trainer Melinda and the staff of GoodLife Fitness for making this journey so much fun. I have embraced a new lifestyle.