Transformation Stories Archives - Page 2 of 8

Transformation Tuesday with Marilyn!

January 8, 2018 By lauraforte Leave a Comment

Happy 2018!!

We are so thrilled to ring in this year and reach even more people with our program! We’ve also had a chance to reflect on how we couldn’t be more proud of our boot camp family with all they’ve achieved in the past year.

A great tradition of ours in the past has been to spotlight a member’s accomplishments for something we call “Transformation Tuesday”, and we are LONG overdue for a story.

I couldn’t be more excited to bring back this great tradition with Marilyn’s story.. which SHE wrote!!

I know her story will inspire you as it has inspired both myself, our trainer team, and our entire boot camp family.

I bring you Marilyn.. in her OWN words!

I’ve never been one who loves exercise and had been fortunate that I could stay at a relatively healthy weight by doing some light exercise here and there. But as I got older, like everyone, my metabolism started to slow. I turned 40 four years ago and had about 10 pounds to lose. That same year, I met my now husband. At the time, I was living in the Washington, D.C. area and he was in Boston. After dating long distance, we got engaged, and I made the move to Boston. It was great being with my sweetie, but the New England weather did not agree with me.

I’ve never been a “gym person” and I always preferred to exercise outdoors, but that just was not possible during winter in Boston. After a harsh winter in which I pretty much hibernated (did I mention we got over 100 inches of snow that winter, breaking the record for the most snow in one winter AND had the coldest February on record!?!?!?!), that 10 pounds I wanted to lose had morphed into 20. The next thing I know, I was walking down the aisle and honeymooning, definitely not in the best shape of my life, but feeling happy and loved.

I decided after the honeymoon, I was going to get fit. As they say, life is full of surprises. Turns out my husband and I came back from our honeymoon with the greatest souvenir, but we had to wait 9 months for delivery. That’s right–we had a honeymoon baby on the way!

We were beyond thrilled. But that meant I was going to postpone losing weight for a while. Exactly three days after I turned 43, I gave birth a beautiful, healthy baby boy. And that 20 pounds I needed to lose was now more like 30-40!

With sleepless nights and caring for a newborn and returning back to work full time and another harsh New England winter, I made no progress on my fitness goals. At this point, my husband and I were ready for a change of scenery and wanted to be closer to family. So in the summer of 2017, we moved to sunny St. Pete. With my son sleeping through the night and being on a more regular schedule, I decided to finally work on getting fit.

I started eating better and walking in North Shore Park regularly, but progress was slow going. I still felt tired all the time. Every night, after we put our son to bed, my husband and I would try to watch TV or a movie but I was always falling asleep about halfway through whatever we were trying to watch. I had a hard time keeping up with my son who was now walking. I would think to myself, “How I am going to keep up with an elementary schooler when I am my 50s?”

While walking in the park, I noticed Bay View Boot Camp. It looked really hard, but then I started to take a closer look. What I saw was a group of diverse people–some seemed younger than me, some seemed older. All were definitely fitter than I was, but some did modifications of challenging exercises while others looked fit enough to teach the class. I also noticed that everyone seemed to encourage one another no matter where each individual was on his or her fitness journey. I began to think maybe I could actually do this. I decided to check Bay View out online to see if it would be a good fit for me.

Turns out, Laura was just launching a Little Black Dress (“LBD”) Challenge. The LBD Challenge included 28 days of meal plans with recipes, shopping lists, a success manual, access to a support group online, at home/travel workouts for when it was impossible to make class, and unlimited access to boot camp classes with participants committing to attend 3-4 classes a week. I thought about it and decided now was the time to commit to getting fit. Twenty eight days seemed like a good amount of time to try something new and see if it worked for me. I also knew if I could complete it, I would have a sense of accomplishment that would drive me to keep going for the long haul.

Since joining boot camp, my energy level has really increased. I no longer fall asleep in front of the TV every night. Keeping up with my active toddler is so much easier. I am also stronger than I have been in a long time. Lifting things I used to think were so heavy–turns out they weren’t heavy, I was just out of shape! And sure, when I see friends and family, it’s great to get compliments on how good I look, but honestly–feeling better is an even greater reward and incentive to keep going!

That first boot camp class was an eye opener. I knew I was out of shape and had weight to lose, but I hadn’t really pushed myself in a long time. In pushing myself, I felt how much work I needed to do but also it was doable. Laura and her trainers were always encouraging. They took time to show us newbies how to do the exercises correctly and how to modify things for our current fitness levels. And the other boot campers were very encouraging. Even though the first few weeks, I couldn’t always keep up, no one ever made me feel bad about that. Rather, the trainers and the participants were there to tell me I COULD do it.

I completed the LBD challenge and lost 8 pounds in 28 days.

Since then, I’ve stuck with nutritional principles Laura gave us during the challenge, at least most of the time. For example, during the holiday season, I knew I would indulge, but I kept that to only special occasions and ate clean and fresh foods most days. And let me just say, I love good food! The foods Laura suggests eating are tasty and satisfying real food, so it is easy to eat healthy meals that taste yummy and fuel your body. I actually lost a few pounds during the time between Thanksgiving and the New Year’s instead of what usually happens–gaining a few pounds.

Currently, I attend boot camp 3 times a week and go for longer walks and even a little jogging on the days that I don’t go to class. When my schedule gets really crazy and I can’t make class, I find time to do the at-home workouts.

By doing this for about 3 and half months, I’ve lost 21 pounds and have dropped 2 dress sizes.

I still have some work to do, but I know that I will reach my goals. Every class, I find myself able to do more and more. Laura and her staff are great with helping you realize you can hold that plank for a few more seconds, lift the heavier weights, and keep going to finish the workout. I never was an athlete, but now I look forward to working out and pushing myself to try new things.

This year, I will turn 45 and my son will turn 2. I no longer worry about whether I’ll be able to keep up with him. I’m in better shape than when I turned 35!

You really can do it! If you are like I was and looking to get back in shape and lose some weight, it will be hard to get started at first. But commit for a few weeks. I promise, if you stick with it, Laura and entire boot camp family will be there to help you. You will have more energy and get results. And you will do it in a beautiful setting and meet a great group of people.

When I checked out Bay View online, I remember seeing the transformation stories. I never imagined I would become one. If you truly commit, try things that are outside of your comfort zone, and give your best at every workout, Laura and her team will help you achieve your goals. You really can become your own transformation story!

Marilyn thank you for sharing your story with us! If you’ve been inspired by Marilyn either by her story or during class, please leave her a note below!

Transformation Tuesday with Nicole Smith!

November 30, 2015 By lauraforte 2 Comments

Before I moved to St. Pete and opened Bay View Boot Camp back in the summer of 2011, I only knew a handful of people. The amazing people and incredible feel of this town helped me make the decision to make it a home here, and this week’s Transformation Tuesday is one of the special people that is to this day a very dear friend.

You can’t find somebody more thoughtful and sweet than Nicki. She’s been an incredible part of our support staff this year and I’m so thankful for her! She came to me back in June and said she was really ready to step it up and get in her best shape yet. She has been committed to both clean eating and consistent workouts ever since!

Here is Nicki’s transformation story, in her very own words:

“My journey with Bay View Boot Camp began before classes started. I met Laura through her husband about 6 months or so before she moved to St. Pete and started training. From the first time I met her, I knew she was a wonderful person with a big heart! That was about 5 years ago, she has since become not only my trainer but a wonderful friend.

I came to the very first boot camp class in August 2011 and have continued on and off for the past four years. That first day of class was tough. I had been working out at a gym for years but this was completely different! It hurt but I loved it! Bay View Boot Camp was just what I needed to take my fitness/workouts to the next level.

During one of my off times, there were some ups and downs I was going through personally and professionally, which resulted in weight gain and not working out. Those times were hard but I got through them, picked myself back up, and realized I was missing Bay View Boot Camp and my fitness family!

I have been back at boot camp for a little over a year now and I realize now that I should have never left! I was struggling with my work outs at first and getting my weight under control for a while and being where I wanted to be at overall health wise. I wasn’t eating terrible but I wasn’t eating well either. I was seeing results by just being back at class but I was still not where I wanted to be…back in June, I decided enough was enough! It was time to get back to healthy eating to compliment the boot camp classes!

I reviewed my plan with Laura and of course she was 100% percent on board and supportive! It was hard, but I knew I needed to do it. My husband also likes to eat healthy and workout, so this made the transition to getting back to that healthy lifestyle a little easier!

Within my first week I was down 3 lbs and I felt great!! I have continued and have lost a total of 10 lbs over the past 5 months! I am not perfect and have had a few slip ups – but the important thing is I got back on track! And I’ve realized it’s ok to fall, just have to make sure you pick yourself back up!

I love the way I feel! I have more energy, I feel stronger, and just overall healthier! Plus – most of my clothes are too big now which means SHOPPING time!

When I came back, I also started working for Laura and Bay View Boot Camp! I absolutely love working with Laura and the trainers and all of our members! This fitness family is so fun, supportive and just an overall wonderful group of people! I am so proud and honored to be a part of it!

I am so honored and humbled to be featured for the Transformation Tuesday! I could not have gotten this far without the support of my husband, my family & friends, the trainers, my boot camp family, and of course Laura!

Laura, thank you for being you!”

Nicki thank you for sharing your story with us! If you’ve been inspired by Nicki either by her story or during class, please leave her a note below!

Transformation Tuesday with Erin Flock!

August 17, 2015 By lauraforte 2 Comments

Our Bay View Boot Camp & Personal Training members are one big family. In every big family, you have big brothers or sisters that you look up to for support, encouragement, and accountability. They will give you a big hug, just when you need it and didn’t even know it, or give you a push when you think you don’t have anymore in the tank. That’s exactly how I would describe today’s spotlight.

“Best Accountability Partner EVER!!”, “Nobody ever works harder!”, “You inspire me!!” are all messages to today’s ‘Transformation Tuesday’ just in the last couple of weeks alone. This rockstar is one of the most genuine, positive, and hardest workers I’ve had the pleasure to train, and I am SO excited that she is the spotlight for today. I give you the beautiful, Erin Flock.. in her very own words!

1. What was your life like before you started boot camp?

I have always considered myself an athletic, competitive person. Growing up, I was involved in sports and continued to stay active as an adult. Being so active “allowed” me to eat whatever I wanted without gaining any weight. Pizza, soda, macaroni and cheese, and every bad carb imaginable were staples in my everyday diet. Everyone always said “it’s going to catch up to you”.

2. What made you decide to take your training to the next level and sign up?

Erin’s “Before” Photos

Five years ago I became pregnant with my first child. I worked out my entire pregnancy and only gained 29 pounds. I lost the weight rather quickly. I was the weight I was pre-pregnancy, but I still did not have the body I desired, despite going to the gym 3-4 times a week. I basically worked out so I could eat what I wanted. I wanted a lean, strong physique and I wasn’t seeing the results I wanted at the gym. That is when I decided to change up my fitness routine. I liked to train hard, but didn’t have the motivation to train as hard as I could at the gym. I needed help, and I could not afford a personal trainer. That is when I came across Bay View Boot Camp… and SO happy that I did.

Bay View Boot Camp was exactly what I needed. A challenging workout, amazing trainers, and an extremely motivating group that made me want to be the best I could be. I had never pushed my body that hard – ever.

5 months ago, I gave birth to my second child. Although I worked out the entire pregnancy, I used the pregnancy as an excuse, to yet again, eat what I wanted. I gained 47 pounds with this pregnancy, and the weight decided it wanted to stay. After having the baby, I found myself eating as if I were still pregnant. I had added stress in my personal life, as well as the stress of having a newborn and a very active 4 year old, that made me turn to my typical comfort foods. I was frustrated about my weight gain, yet I wasn’t changing my bad habits. For the first time in my life, I had to work at losing weight. Everyone was right…. the bad food choices did catch up to me.

Rather than fueling my feelings and stress with food, I decided to get back to boot camp and turn my stress into fuel. I know I needed to change, and wishing for change was not working anymore. I had to change to make a change. With the help of Bay View Boot Camp, I have changed my entire outlook on food, thanks to their transformation challenges and the advice and guidance from Laura. Laura, Gail and Jill along with every single member of Bay View Boot Camp have motivated me beyond belief. The support and inspiration from others keep me going – they believe in me when I don’t believe in me – and that is what motivates me to not give up. That I NEVER got at the gym.

3. What do you love most about your new lifestyle?

Check out Erin NOW!!

Rather than poking at my fat in the mirror and feeling down about how I look, I am now poking at my abs and feeling great. I have more energy than ever before because I am not feeling the sugar crashes and food coma’s that I did my whole life. There are so many things in my life that is out of my control, but I can control how I feel through diet and exercise – and I feel great. I love being challenged with the workouts and the feeling of accomplishment when I complete them – it truly is euphoric. The feeling of making a smart food choice is empowering to me. I like feeling good about myself and not feeling insecure of my body or feeling guilty after every meal.

4. Why is your personal health and fitness so important to you?

Not only is my personal health and fitness important to me for my own personal confidence and well-being, but most importantly, I want to be the best role model possible for my children. I want them to love their bodies – no matter what the size or shape. I want my children to love to exercise like I do and I do not want them to grow up with my poor eating habits. Fortunately, Harper, my 4 ½ year old, has attended a few boot camps and she loves it as much as I do. She can actually do a better burpee than me! Bay View Boot Camp is not only improving my life, but it is leaving an impact on the future generation – and to me that is profound.

5. What has been your results/experiences from boot camp/eating better and changing your lifestyle?

5 months since having my second child, and 3 months since returning to boot camp, I have lost a total of 51 pounds – yes some of that weight is attributed to having a baby, but I can assure you I did not have a 51 pound baby! I now weigh less than I did before having my first child. I am in the best shape that I have been in since high school. I am much stronger than I have ever been, and my endurance and speed is the best it has been in 15 years. I know there is no way I would have reached those goals so quickly if it were not for the workouts at boot camp and the transformation challenge that has helped me change my diet.

My goals have now changed from reaching a certain number on the scale, to now performance type goals as well as dropping my body fat percentage even lower.

6. What is your motto/advice for others who were in a similar situation to yourself?

Throughout this journey I have repeated several times, “if it doesn’t challenge you it doesn’t change you”.

My advice to other mommies, is that it is ok to take some time for yourself. I feel I am a better mommy by being able to take the time I need to be healthy, both mentally and physically. Having more energy and being in a better mood is much more appreciated by my children.

Thank you Erin for sharing your story with us!! If Erin has inspired you, please leave her a note below and thank her!!

Scott’s Transformation Story

July 27, 2015 By lauraforte 2 Comments

This week you are hearing from one of the most humble, hard working members of our boot camp crew and has been for the past 3 years. A recently retired firefighter, Scott is always giving 100%.. even when he would come straight to class after working a 24-hour shift.

He has fun at boot camp – and is always a pleasure to train. I’m so thankful he is part of our 8 AM boot camp family! Make your day better and read Scott’s Transformation Tuesday story!

What was your life like before you started boot camp?

My exercise journey started when I was 24. I started lifting weights and soon got into bodybuilding. I entered a local contest in 1980. Along came marriage, kids, and a new career. I realized that there was more to life than pushing weights around the gym.

What made you decide to take your training to the next level and join our program?

I had continued to work out through the years and practice yoga but my trips to the gym became less frequent. In 2012 I realized I needed to shake things up and try something new that would help my endurance and strength in my last few years as a firefighter. I walked by Bay View Boot Camp one Saturday and thought that it looked like something for me.

What are the biggest changes you have seen in yourself – not only physically, but mental/emotional also.

I was not focused mainly on losing weight but I have lost 12 pounds and almost 3 inches from my waist. I feel good, have much more energy and mental focus. It becomes very evident to me how much the workouts are helping when I miss a few!

What do you love most about your new lifestyle?

A new found energy and aerobic ability.

Why is your personal health and fitness so important to you?

As I get older I have realized I can’t change the outcome but I can positively affect the journey. I will get a lot more enjoyment out of life if I stay in shape.

What has been your results/experiences from boot camp/eating better and changing your lifestyle?

While hiking in Devil’s Lake Park in Wisconsin this past April I found it much easier to trek the familiar trails than it was ever in the past – even in my 30’s! On a week to week basis – although I constantly have my butt kicked in boot camp – I enjoy the feeling I get for the rest of the day.

What is your motto/advice for others who were in a similar situation to yourself?

Just give it a try and keep moving! It has never been easy but I feel that Laura and my other comrades and trainers at Bay View Boot Camp have been instrumental in my progress and adherence to my life goals. I am lucky to be in such a great group.

Scott – thank you so much for being a member of our family and sharing your story!! If you’ve been inspired by Scott either during class or by his story, please leave him a note below!

Janet’s Total Transformation

July 8, 2015 By lauraforte 1 Comment

Ask any member of our Bay View Boot Camp crew – who is sure to:

A. Break out in dance (aka twerk)

B. Make hilarious (most likely inappropriate, but funny) comments during class

C. Be one of the first to encourage you and help you get/stay in a good mood..

I’d bet out of 10 responses, 10 resounding “Janet!” responses would be the answer.

When I met Janet, she was searching not only for a place to train, but also a place to call home. Now, I honestly couldn’t fathom our boot camp family without her in it. I love this girl and her crazy, fun spirit. I’ve seen her become faster, stronger, more positive, and continue to take on more challenges. Here is Janet Mitchel’s transformation story.. in her own words!

“I moved to Florida last year knowing only one person. Anyone who knows me knows it was a pretty big deal to leave the comfort of having my family around me and having the support they offer.

When I got to Florida, the one person I knew moved back to VA. I went into nights of crying and being completely alone. I told myself I would stay a year and move back after my job contract was complete. I joined a gym that I did not enjoy so decided to Google boot camp. Bay View Boot Camp and another popped up and I emailed both.

Janet’s “Before” and “After”

Laura emailed me, called me and even met with me which showed she was committed to her business and I felt committed to me as well. I am still waiting to hear back from the other place. I could have never imagined what would happen next.

I met a group of positive, motivated, energetic, committed and hilarious group of people. I was going because I needed the exercise/challenge but also found myself going because I loved being around the people.

Boot camp became my family and these awesome people didn’t even know it. I have grown stronger physically (totally did spider man push ups the other day…what???) but the most important transformation for me has been mentally and emotionally. I wasn’t a very positive person before by allowing life and negative people to really impact my mood and how I felt about myself. It is completely 100% true that when you surround yourself with positive people you become that too.

I have no plans to move back to VA . I consider myself pretty lucky to have met some outstanding people with the best attitudes towards life and their health. I also really appreciate people who tolerate my behavior and the sometimes “inappropriate” things that may come out of my mouth.

So please consider this a “shout out” to all of you for being the people you are and accepting new people in and treating them like family.

Bay View Boot Camp proves to be more than just a boot camp but it’s truly a family providing support, cheers, high fives and a booty pop when you need it.

Thank you Janet for sharing your story! If Janet has inspired you by her story or during class, please leave her a note below!

Transformation Tuesday with Marilyn!

Transformation Tuesday with Nicole Smith!

Transformation Tuesday with Erin Flock!

Scott’s Transformation Story

Janet’s Total Transformation

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