Several months ago, I saw myself as a forty-something, pre-menopausal, overweight woman swimming in a gene pool with hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis floating in it. I realized I could wallow in it and eventually drown, or I could backstroke right out of there.

I was disheartened over the years from periodically trying and miserably failing in my dieting and fitness endeavors. I had fleetingly considered liposuction, but realized that it was a quick-fix and would not be sustained due to poor eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle.

In the past, my workout experiences at the gym were short-lived. I felt frumpy in my oversized exercise attire compared to the female bodybuilders with mile-high legs in tights and belly-baring sports bras. My knowledge of the equipment was non-existent. Hiring a personal trainer was my last-ditch effort in becoming fit.

Enter Billy Beck III, my personal trainer…and my lifesaver! After attending one of his seminars and setting an appointment, Billy asked me questions about my medical history, diet and exercise habits, as well as, my goals. He then customized a comprehensive program suited to my needs that includes all the principles for ideal fitness and health including resistance training, some aerobic exercise, flexibility and the right nutrition. He has methodically charted a course incorporating these elements so that I have never felt overwhelmed and never bored.

In the beginning, I didn’t know the difference between a dumbbell and a barbell and was intimidated by the sea of metal monsters in the gym. Through his guidance, I am now capable of using almost any machine without feeling inept.

He has integrated anatomy and bio-mechanics into my sessions. I know the cause and effect of each exercise and how it relates to different muscle groups.

Billy has also empowered me with invaluable information toward good nutrition. I can now look at labels and determine the different caloric, fat, sugar, protein and carbohydrate ratios to constitute a good food choice.

Billy’s job description as a personal trainer is much more than swapping weights and counting repetitions. His passion for health and fitness is evident, in that, he stays current with the latest trends in fitness and nutrition science and then shares this information through workshops and seminars.

His optimism, dedication and motivational skills are unparalleled and he has fulfilled my quest for optimal health. My originally established goals have been surpassed.

I look at my “before” pictures and see a retiring, overweight, matronly woman. Today…my attitude, both physically and mentally, is greatly transformed. Rather than slouching through the motions of everyday life, I am now walking with confidence, energy and purpose in my step and the conviction that there is nothing that can’t be accomplished. Needless to say, this has been a life-altering experience.

I am no longer floundering in that gene pool. I don’t know that I’m quite yet ready to swim the English Channel, but with Billy Beck as my coach…I’d give it a try!

Sincerely,

Denise A. Johnston