After a previous relationship had packed on extra pounds, Kevin took his first class. Now, he’s down five inches around his waist, four inches around each thigh, and has gained five pounds of muscle! Here’s his story …
1. What prompted you to start taking classes at The Studio (MDR), and what was your starting point?
Gina Barrios has been telling me about The Studio (MDR) for a very long time, but it wasn’t until another friend of mine suggested we take a class that I actually decided to go. I thought I was in pretty good shape; I went running four or five times a week and went to the gym about three times a week. But I have to admit my clothes were feeling a bit tighter and I couldn't fit into half of my wardrobe. I had gained quite a bit of weight during my previous relationship, and I wanted to get back into pre-relationship shape.
2. Tell us a little about that first class! What did you think … and how did you feel after class and the next day?
My first class was with Mary. She was awesome and I was beat up! It was definitely one of the hardest things I had done physically in my life. I kept thinking during class, "Oh, that's going to hurt tomorrow." And I was right, all of those parts of my body hurt the next day. But I felt like I had so much more energy and clarity of mind -- even with the soreness.
3. What's been your biggest achievement in class?
I think it was rising to challenges. I remember one time he asked me to put on three yellow springs. I don't think he thought I was going to do it, but I did. (Even I didn't think I was going to do it at first.) I think the best feeling I’ve had so far was when I was able to do Giant Bear with three yellow springs. That, by far, was the hardest thing I've had to try in class. The amount of abdominal muscle output one has to use in order for your toes not to slip right off the platform is unimaginable to someone like me. To perform an exercise with an added level of difficulty the first time and not fail … it was mind blowing, and a major eye opener for me on just how far I really have come.
4. How much weight have you lost, and what are your new goals?
The last time I weighed myself I had gained about 5 lbs but lost about 5 inches around my midsection and about 4 inches in each thigh. (All of my pants fit again, and I'm back down to 33-34 waist.) My chest and arms actually have some definition now and shirts are no longer a hindrance to my breathing. In addition to how I look, I feel like I've come a long way in terms of fitness. My stamina amazes me and the level of energy I can maintain throughout the day is much improved. Class doesn't seem as intimidating as before, and I'm able to sustain each exercise a lot longer than when I first started. As for my future goals? I want to continue to get into the best shape I can and also try to help others do the same thing. I truly believe in what the The Studio (MDR) is doing and would hope to bring more people like myself to this community and inspire them to start their journey toward being the best they can be.
5. How is The Studio (MDR) changing other aspects of your life?
Really, I think the most important thing that I've gotten from The Studio (MDR) is confidence. I feel much more confident in all situations. Whether it’s dating, work or just a social situation, I stand taller and assert myself with a level of confidence that hasn't been there before. If I can survive 50 minutes of this workout , then I figure I can survive any situation that’s thrown at me. Even my friends have commented that I look taller. I'm still 5'10". I guess what they see is my gains from going to The Studio (MDR) for the past few months!