1/ Why did you start your journey?
Life came at me fast in 2016/17 as I was transitioning from active duty. I injured my back and let the “retired” tag slow me down. I had spent the prior 20 years in the Army and in September ’16 I became a college student. I continued to eat the way I had, and my workouts slowly stopped. I gained weight fast, and it was putting my health in jeopardy. At the time I was living in Michigan but in 2020 we moved to Florida, and I knew that I had to lose the weight. I started on my own and it was hard… I would lose some and then gain some. In late September ’21 I reached out to Melih F. Cologlu for help, and we got started on my fitness journey on October 4th.
2/ What are some obstacles that you have overcome and what keeps you accountable?
The biggest obstacle for me is my school schedule (much like any full-time job). I spend 2-3 hours a day in the car and up to 8 hours in a class. Being around a group of 18–20 year-old guys it’s hard to stick to an eating (healthy) schedule. But for me the best way to keep myself accountable is to pack everything in 1-2 coolers and bring it with me. This has been the key to my success so far. Having a kid has also been hard to stick with my meal plan. It has also made it easier; she knows that dad is focusing on his health and is quick to point out of something is not on my weekly meal plan (it hangs on the refrigerator door).
3/ What keeps you motivated?
Motivation comes from many different places for me. Friends and family noticing how I have changed. My wife hugging me and pointing out how much farther she can wrap her arms around me. The need to tighten up my belt (one hole at a time). It’s been about five months now, but I have had to shop twice for new better fitting clothes.
4/ What are some of the supporting factors to your successful journey so far?
Meal prep is the biggest factor to my success so far. Melih F. Cologlu’s plan is so simple that I cook 1-3 times a week and that’s it. The snacks are so simple that it’s a grab and go even if we spend the day at the parks in Orlando, I can toss them in a small bag and make a healthly choice at mealtime!
5/ What is your ultimate goal?
My ultimate goal is more than just a number on the scale…. Even though that number is sub-199, Its to have the energy to workout 5-6 times a week but still have the energy to play with my kiddo. It’s to not hide in the back of the photos anymore, to not pass by a window/mirror and think negative thoughts of my health situation.
6/ What is your favorite exercise?
My favorite exercise is anything to do with my arms and shoulders! I have a bulging disk in my neck that pinches a nerve, since working out with Melih F. Cologlu’s plan my consistent aches and pains have become more manageable. One arm overhead rope cable extension for triceps, and overhead cable curl for biceps.
To start your own journey and to see if we can work together towards your fitness goals please shoot me an email at: covermodelphysique@gmail.com