In the past I have tried time and time again to get in shape. Usually it would involve becoming obsessed with fitness and diet, seeing success, then eventually burning out and quitting. This time around I have taken a more sustainable approach; I track my protein and ensure I’m in a caloric deficit, but am not strict about how big of a deficit I’m in, and I workout consistently while tracking my progress, not worrying about how quickly I’m improving. Progress is progress and as long as I am 1% better than I was yesterday, I’m moving in the right direction. With this approach, I have been able to go out to eat with family and enjoy myself during celebrations while still making progress and not feeling guilty. Some days I just don’t feel like working out. Maybe work was extra stressful, or some other obligations have come up that eat into my time. On those days, I do some light activity instead of pushing myself to the point of burning out. Maybe I go on a walk or do some bodyweight exercises throughout the day. As long as I get some movement, it’s better than doing nothing at all. This mental shift has allowed me to maintain a healthy balance of mental and physical health while still making progress. My only rule is that I don’t break the plan two days in a row. “Breaking a habit once is a slip up. Breaking a habit two days in a row is the start of a new habit.” My advice to everyone is to not be too hard on yourself. Treat your health like a marathon, not a sprint. As long as you’re moving forward, you will reach your goals.

I owe a huge thanks to Jeff and fxbg fitness for regularly challenging me with workouts specifically designed to push me in the areas I needed the most improvement (even to the point of throwing up), as well as providing the tools and guidance I needed to track progress and direct my focus to other areas of fitness besides weight (body composition, flexibility, mobility, endurance, etc). Their assessments  revealed weaknesses from a past injury that I wasn’t even aware existed. They are all incredibly knowledgeable and I wish I didn’t have to move away, because I would definitely love to continue working with them, but I’m glad I got the chance while I was there. For anyone working with them, you’re in good hands.

— Austin Maiden

A Note From his Trainer

We’re excited to spotlight an amazing client that has made a lot of progress with us at FFS—Austin Maiden.

Working with Austin has been a real privilege. From day one — when he pushed himself so hard he threw up after the rowing warm-up — to our final session, where he asked if he could finish with max pull-ups after an already tough workout, the transformation has been incredible. His commitment to a more intentional, balanced approach to fitness has paid off in a big way, and I couldn’t be prouder. It’s tough to see him head to South Carolina, but with the discipline and mindset he’s developed, I know he’s got amazing things ahead. Keep pushing, Austin — you’ve laid the foundation for long-term success.

– Jeff Smith