Our members' personal weight loss stories

Debbie Metcalf's story
       My weight loss/fitness journey started in the summer of 2008.  I began walking around the block in my neighborhood with some friends.  We started with 3 laps and eventually worked up to 3 miles each evening. After a couple months, I mentioned to a friend who is a receptionist at the local Weight Watchers meeting what I was doing, and my desire to lose weight.  She invited me to check out a meeting.  I went in September and signed up.  I immediately began to see results.  My starting weight was 236.4 lbs at my first meeting. I set short term goals of 5 lbs and a long term goal of 100 lbs.

       When it got too cold and wet to walk outside, I used my elliptical machine at home in the evenings while watching TV.  I also alternated with a step aerobics videos a few mornings a week.  My progress was slow, but steady.  The weight was coming off and I felt better.  My blood pressure came down and so did my cholesterol and triglycerides.  I slept better and my self-esteem and mental health improved.    

       After the holidays in 2008, I mentioned to my husband that I wanted to include some strength training to my diet/exercise routine.  He surprised me by  
going to the Shelton Athletic Club and picked up information about what they offered and how to join.  I asked him if we could join, and that very afternoon he took me down and signed us up for a family membership. 
      
       I began going to SAC three mornings a week, doing a warm up on the treadmill or elliptical machines.  Then I did the circuit (cable) weight machines. The staff at SAC showed me how to properly adjust the machines.  They were never judgmental and always willing to answer my questions. After time, as I got to know Randy Smith and the staff, they encouraged me to push myself, cheered me on when I hit a goal, and lifted me up when I hit plateaus.  Randy gave me great advice and showed me a few tips and tricks to help me reach my goals.  The atmosphere was so positive and I felt like I belonged not just to a gym, but to a family.

       A little over a year into my journey Michelle Parson brought Zumba to SAC. It was just the added change I needed for that final push to hit my goal of losing 100 lbs. Michelle always had a smile, kind words, and encouraging words for everyone. She took an interest in the goals of her students and shared her own personal struggles with weight loss. She was an inspiration.  She encouraged others in her class to become Zumba instructors, and they continue to share the Zumba experience with the SAC members.  

       I have now been maintaining my weight for a little over a year. Working out at SAC is part of my maintenance routine.  Randy, Chet and the rest of the staff at SAC continue to encourage me and help me change up my program so it never gets boring. 

       My journey hasn’t always been easy and 3 years ago I would never have imagined that I would enjoy working out.  But, not only do I enjoy working out, I am now a licensed Zumba and Zumba toning instructor.  My hope is that my story and success can help others reach for their own goals.  It is my way of paying forward all the help and encouragement I received from others on my journey.
                                                     **If you are interested in sharing your weight loss journey at the Shelton Athletic Club please email us at Sheltonathleticclub@hotmail.com