Earlier last year I knew that I very badly needed to lose weight and get active.

I had watched my daughter who had joined Encompass and had seen not only a physical transformation but her outlook on everything was so much more positive and she really just felt good about herself. She convinced me to try the exercise classes.

Being older, I was scared stiff. But I made it through the first class, and I kept on coming back. I am probably amongst the oldest members but if I can do it, anyone can do it.

They always give modifications and you never feel out of place because everyone is so encouraging and it wont be long before you realize you are doing what everyone else can do. The atmosphere is amazing; they make it fun! (well, almost fun ;)) I never thought I would ever enjoy exercise, and now I really miss it if I can’t make a class.

Joining the KickStart and the fitness classes are two of the best decisions I have ever made.

The best part of the program is learning how to eat properly and knowing when to eat. For the longest time I always thought if you’re not hungry you shouldn’t eat. My mentality has completely shifted I’ve learned to appreciate slow and steady weight loss because I have shifted from an all-or-nothing mentality to realizing this is a way of life that I can maintain forever, and I will.

I can walk up the stairs at home without my knees aching, I can bend over and tie my shoes without sitting down, I have gained confidence, and I just feel so much better overall. I can also wear clothes that I hadn’t been able to wear in quite some time. I even went from the W’s and plus sizes to fitting into the regular sizes again.

I would encourage someone to join if they want to learn good nutrition and have a great exercise program. 

I can climb the stairs without huffing and puffing, I can bend over and tie my shoes without sitting down, I just feel so much better overall. I’ve still got a long way to go, but it is coming off slowly and I am okay with that and I am working hard at being positive and kicking the all or nothing mentality. I’ve learned that a slip up is not the end, because this is a a lifestyle and it is a new way of life.

I love the atmosphere, the people, the coaches, and I love that everyone works at their own pace, everyone is supportive, and there is zero judgment, ever. If I can do it, you can too.