A Success Story

Jim Barron

UST Facilities & Planning Design

My wife and I decided to start a structured exercise program at the end of September 2002. We had individually tried many self directed programs, but neither of us stayed with them for more than a few months. We joined a small health club close to home and vowed to shame each other into going on a regular basis. We individually worked with personal trainers to develop goals and an exercise program to accomplish those goals.

My goals were simple. Rehabilitate my sore shoulder and knee, get in shape, and tone up what little muscle mass I had. My weight was at the top limit of my recommended weight range, so weight loss wasn’t one of my goals.

Two years later, we are still going to the gym two to three nights per week, lifting weights and doing aerobic exercises. We also cleaned up our diet, eating more chicken, fish and vegetables. The results are amazing. I can see and feel a difference. My shoulder and knee feel great. I’ve lost 27 pounds, fit into smaller clothes, and have more energy than before. I can eat what I want without having to be on the latest fad diet. I found the secret to real weight loss is to burn more than you consume.

The best part is that I actually look forward to working out. Sure, there are nights that it would be easier to stay home, but I know how good I feel after a work out. Exercise may not be easy an easy habit to develop, but it’s worth the effort.