How One Member Took Control of Their Health
On January 1, 2025, I stepped on the scale and saw a number that stopped me in my tracks: 261 pounds — my heaviest weight ever. It wasn’t just the number that hit me. My gym performance, especially cardio, had been suffering. I knew it was time to make a change.
That was when I reached out to Dustin, someone I trusted, to help guide me through the process. I didn’t want a crash diet or some unsustainable fad. I wanted to do this right — and Dustin made sure of that.
Making Food Simple, Not Stressful
What made the biggest difference? Honestly, it came down to food choices and preparation. Once I got into the rhythm of prepping lunches and dinners ahead of time, everything became easier. I stopped going out to lunch with coworkers and focused on eating real food that fueled my goals.
Some of my go-to staples were:
- Costco rotisserie chickens
- A giant bag of rice
- Fruit for sweet cravings
Tracking my intake also became a key habit. I used MyFitnessPal and a food scale to stay consistent — not obsessive — and it really kept me honest. I also learned along the way that some fruits and vegetables just don’t sit well with me. It’s a process of learning what works for you.
Don’t Make It Harder Than It Has to Be
At first, I overcomplicated things — trying to meal prep for an entire week or overhaul everything at once. But with Dustin’s help, I realized success came from keeping it simple. Instead of perfection, it was about consistency. Some days were great, others not so much, but what mattered most was showing up and staying the course.
He helped me manage the mental side too — reminding me that every day is a fresh start, and that being in a calorie deficit is tough, but doable with the right macros, support and mindset.
Balancing Performance and Nutrition
One unexpected challenge was undereating, especially during hectic workdays. It led to fatigue and a drop in gym performance. Dustin coached me through this, checking in regularly — asking about hunger levels, and keeping me accountable with both my diet and training.
That guidance helped me avoid burnout, and stay consistent while making real, measurable progress.
This journey has been easier because of asking for help. I’ve lost weight, improved my gym performance, and gained a new sense of control over my health. I still have goals ahead, but I’m proud of how far I’ve come — and thankful for the support that got me here.
If you’re thinking about starting your own journey: keep it simple, stay consistent, and don’t do it alone.