As a Software Engineer by profession, I spend a lot of time sitting in front of a computer.  The job can get hectic, demanding, and require long hours on the job.  After having to relocate to CA 2 years ago, I found myself off track my normal rigorous gym routine and knew I had to take action.

I ended up joining Gold’s Venice and hiring trainer Josh Squyres to help me accomplish my goals to lose weight and gain lean muscle mass.  Not long after getting started, Josh told me about the annual Gold’s Transformation Challenge.  I thought it was the perfect fit to accomplish my goals quickly.

Josh strategized a program that started with an intense first week.  It included timed high rep resistance training that kept my heart beat going the entire hour.  It was quickly evident that he was simultaneously sneaking in the cardio that I had been avoiding for so long without me knowing.  Once I got through this, I found myself with more energy and started increasing the cardio after our regular lifting routine.

The pounds started to shed and I was motivated!  The weeks started going by fast, as all my time was busy with work, gym, and learning proper diet techniques from Josh.  It was made very clear that you cannot out train a bad diet.  I cooked all my meals at home so I knew exactly what was going in my food.  I stuck with foods high in protein and fiber, yet low in fat and sodium.  Out of all the meals, my favorite was baked cod seasoned with pepper, garlic, onion, and dill weed with a sweet potato on the side.

Towards the end of the program, I noticed something I had never seen before.  Abs!  That was one thing I let slide in my previous efforts and was very surprised to see the results from including them in the daily routine.  This was another major boost of motivation as we reached the final week!

Josh’s daily motivational emails and texts helped me push it hard to achieve success.  I did as much cardio as possible varying the different types of machines for additional motivation.

The final day was here and I was very excited to see the successful results!  I had lost almost 50 pounds and 10% body fat.  My pants size went from a tight size 38 to a comfortable 34.

Having accomplished such great results has boosted my confidence tremendously and I am looking forward to a great summer on Venice Beach!  Thanks Josh for all your motivation and support!