I have always worked out and used to love running 3-5 times a week. In 2013 I went out for my morning run and only got to the end of my block and had to stop due to excruciating back pain. The pain became worse and would shoot down my leg to my ankle. When I stood up, I would occasionally buckle to the floor. I had an MRI and consulted with 3 neurosurgeons. Each surgeon told me I needed back surgery with rods and pins placed. They told me I would never run, golf, water ski or snow ski again (with or without surgery). They also said they would fix the low back and in 3 years fix the area above that and in 3 years the area above that would be required and so on. I had physical therapy and got with my trainer to build up the muscles around the injury and prevent further damage. I’ve been with my trainer, Jeramy Meredith for over 13 years. He did glute activation exercises and other techniques to help me get stronger and better. I now golf and water ski and it has been 6 years since I was told by 3 surgeons that I need surgery. All I needed was some expert training to activate the muscles that would not fire properly!

As I turned 39, I realized it was finally time to devote serious energy toward making my health a top priority. The job, a young family, and constant procrastination over the past 15 years had taken their toll as I found my weight at an all-time high. My energy level was low, while back and knee pain seemed to be a constant reality. A physical the prior year had indicated I had borderline high blood pressure and cholesterol levels that were going in the wrong direction. I knew that I was far too young to have these problems and it was time for a change.
After many failed attempts at diet and exercise changes over the previous years, it finally occurred to me that I would need real help to make these changes last. That’s when I met Jeramy Meredith, my personal trainer. After an initial assessment that confirmed all of my growing health concerns, we agreed it was time to start getting on the right track. The sessions were not easy at first, but within a few weeks I started to see and feel the improvements and I haven’t looked back since.
In addition to the sessions together, Jeramy provided nutrition help, cardio suggestions and constant encouragement. I know I could not have done this without his coaching, guidance and friendship. For me, he has made all the difference, and I would highly recommend a personal trainer for anyone that needs a little extra help getting started and sticking to a plan. We all have hectic schedules, and having a resource to make certain you prioritize your health is invaluable. It really can be done.
After six months, I lost nearly 40 pounds and my body fat percentage declined from 35% to 26%. I no longer had back or knee pain and I could keep up with any activity the kids throw at me. I lost several inches while significantly increasing muscle mass. I have honestly never been stronger or felt better. A recent physical confirmed the positive changes with all cholesterol and blood pressure readings well within normal ranges.
I am not done! My goal is to lose a few more pounds over the next few months. Once I am there, I will be at my target and will be where I need to be at 40. I am also training for some races, the Caveman Crawl this summer will be my first with Jeramy by my side. I am really looking forward to it & I am thankful for his support. He is the BEST!
Brian B.