“I’ve been overweight my entire life. It’s something I was bullied about as a child, and the one thing in my life I never felt I had control over. Through the years, my weight has fluctuated drastically. I’ve tried more fad diets than I care to admit. I’ve tried running, aerobics classes, even wearing a sweat suit- but these methods were temporary, and any weight lost was quickly gained back, oftentimes in excess.
When I first came to Arena Fitness I was, admittedly, intimidated by the process. I began with the Kickstart program, and shocked myself with the results. 28 days doesn’t seem like much time, but it was enough to see results were possible, with the right guidance. I decided to continue at Arena Fitness and joined the Life program to continue my nutritional education. This is what made all the difference for me.
The Life program was instrumental in guiding my everyday habits. I learned you can still easily gain fat while exercising consistently if your nutrition is not planned properly. I also learned not to expect perfection, and to be patient. So much of our daily lives is instantaneous. As frustrating as it often is, weight loss is not. Obvious, right? Yet still a tough lesson for me to learn.
Over the last few months, I have also learned to forgive myself. For my past mistakes, for the ones I will make in the future, and for the time lost by not educating myself. I know my work is far from over, but I recognize the importance of celebrating your success. I have now lost over 50lbs total. I anticipate more tough times, plateaus, and poor food choices, but I feel more prepared than ever to overcome those daily challenges.
To everyone at Arena Fitness, I want you to know how incredibly grateful I am for your persistence, your positivity, and your patience. In the few months I’ve been under your guidance, I have learned so much about fitness, nutrition, and myself. You have shown me I am capable of more than I previously thought possible, and you have forced me to challenge myself in new and exciting ways. The lessons you teach are absolutely invaluable, and I am exceptionally thankful for each and every one of you.”
-Matthew Tasetano, Arena Fitness Member