Merritt Clubs Blog

   

How to Overcome Hurdles to Achieving Good Physical Health

Posted by RaySa

Sep 27, 2013

 

A few years ago, I was 255 pounds, drinking a 30 pack of beer, and smoking 2 packs of cigarettes a day. I had the worst diet, eating fast food and sweets exclusively. I was constantly out of breath, dizzy, and thoroughly miserable all the time. I felt like i was walking dead, numb to the world around me and actually welcomed death. If there was ever a poster for bad lifestyle decisions, it would have my picture on it.

Several events lead me to sober up and stop smoking. These changes were tough. My body was telling me I had better change something soon, or else. My physical and mental health were at the breaking point. I felt considerably better after quitting drinking and smoking, but still felt badly and lacked any energy. So I changed my diet and started walking some. Immediately I started feeling somewhat better, and knew I was headed in the right
direction for healthier living. I was still not feeling as good as I thought I should, so a friend of mine recommended I join a gym, and that he was a member of Merritt in Eldersburg. I joined immediately and started going consistently soon after.

I quickly figured out I would need help developing a routine, getting familiar with the equipment, and most importantly avoiding an injury. Steve Ruby was recommended to me by a friend and immediately I felt comfortable working with him, as he had been through his own struggles as well. There's a huge difference in working with a trainer who has been through the struggle themselves, compared to one who just read about it in a book. Steve has proven thoroughly knowledgable with all aspects of fitness. He keeps me guessing as to what the workout will be that day, and the results are dramatic. I love how Steve always finds a new way to challenge me.

As a direct result, I am now in the best shape of my life, and look forward to my time in the gym. The positive benefits of Lifestyle change and exercise I cannot possibly explain or emphasize well enough. For me, working with someone experienced has made all the difference. Start your journey with a trainer who has walked in your shoes. My highest recommendation is Mr. Steve Ruby

Read More

Topics: Personal Training, get fit, Merritt blog, best trainers, fitness stories, fitness results, Fitness Tips, member success, fitness, best gyms in baltimore, get in shape, baltimore trainers, best workout plans, Member Success Stories, lifestyle change, nutrition, healthy weight loss

Gary’s Secret To Losing 106 Pounds + How To Fight The Effects Of Aging

Posted by RaySa

Jul 17, 2012

Gary Desper adds back "The Healthy Years!"

“In my 20s, I was focused on starting a family, completing law school and beginning my career. I did not take anytime to care for myself. I ate what I wanted and exercise was something I dreaded. In August 2009, I weighed in at my heaviest ever at nearly 280 pounds and was very unhappy with how I felt and looked. Now in my mid 30s, I realized I was at risk of developing serious health problems that I might not be able to reverse and that could take years off my life. I became determined to take control of my health and change for the better. I knew I hadn’t put on the weight over night, so I wasn’t going to be able to take it off overnight either. I set realistic goals to improve my eating, exercise more and change my lifestyle. Early in 2010, I signed up for Merritt’s Biggest Loser and I have completed three rounds of the program so far. Through working with trainers Rob Stempel and Karen Martinez I have gained several new tools to help me with my personal fitness goals. Today I weigh 174 pounds. I’ve lost nearly 106 pounds so far. My young children have seen the changes in me and have become interested in making healthier choices. This is a life long journey and I will continue to work on being the healthiest I can be so I can fully enjoy my family and the many other good things in life.

Read More

Topics: biggest loser club, merritt’s biggest loser, workout, exercise, weight control, weight plan, goals, health clubs, member success, fitness, Lose weight diet, healthy diet, Member Success Stories, living healthy, weight loss diet