Success Story: Kristy Skuce

 
 

Kristy had been coming to Encompass and working out consistently for a  year but wasn’t seeing the progress she had hoped to. No weight was lost, in fact she gained a few pounds. “I found myself very frustrated over summer with nothing fitting properly and not feeling as comfortable because of it. I had friends at Encompass who were successful with the program and I thought it was time to give the KickStart a try.”

Kristy was hesitant about the cost of the program and felt that she should be able to get the results she wanted on her own, without any help. But, in the end,  friends encouraged her to sign up.  “I decided to give it a try and in the very first week I was down almost 7 pounds! I could not believe it.” Her remaining 3 weeks on the Program were nothing short of success as she didn’t stop at those 7 pounds.

The biggest discovery Kristy made throughout the program was what adding her creamer to her coffee was doing to her body. Before the KickStart you could find Kristy drinking, and adding creamer to coffee several times per day. During the KickStart she broke that habit by having only one coffee with breakfast and drinking water, tea or black coffee the rest of the day.  She says she’s getting used to black coffee- seeing the results is worth it.

Another benefit was losing inches in areas that were typically harder for her. “I always notice changes in my upper body but often struggled with losing in my lower body.”  But during the Kickstart, Kristy lost 2.5 inches off her stomach, 2 inches off her hips and another 1.5 from each leg.

Everyone has days where “life happens” but this program adapts to those days.  Kristy experienced some of these days during the 28 days of the Kickstart. “Thanksgiving fell in the middle of this program and I still enjoyed my supper and a slice of pie, yes that’s right. I also attended fundraisers where the menu didn’t fit nicely into the program. I took those days as “life days” and tried to make the best choices.”  But knowing portion sizes as well as what she should be eating for meals and snacks ensured she could stay on track around those “life days”.  Managing the correct amount of carbs was a big lesson for her.

The results are still new and exciting to Kristy. But she’s looking forward to enjoying clothes shopping again.  ”I feel more confident and I'm excited to continue focusing on my nutrition as well as to teach my family healthy habits.”

“I would definitely recommend this program to anyone. The elements are very clear. If you follow the meal suggestions and timing of meals, you will find success. There is something for everyone....you can spend time cooking or stick to the easier recipes and grab and go. Each recipe makes more than one portion so I found I could freeze meals.”  I’ll be honest, I’m kicking myself for not joining the first KickStart program I could have.”

The biggest benefit for Kristy from this program was gaining the confidence of knowing she could do it.  “And that motivates me to set new goals.”

What more could you ask for in 28 days?

 
 
 

"Exercise Saved My Life"

"Exercise Saved My Life"

Sharon has come a long way since starting with us, claiming that exercise has saved her life. Sharon started personal training with us just less than a year ago. Since then, she has gained the strength and confidence to join group classes, and is an inspiration to everyone around her. Her persistence and positivity are infectious, and she shows up early each day to practice her weaknesses and push her limitations. 

This couple lost 20 pounds each and changed their lives (without exercise!)

This couple lost 20 pounds each and changed their lives (without exercise!)

After hearing about their co-workers success, Brent and Dallas decided to 'give the program a try'. In this time they lost over 20 pounds each with no restrictions or starvation. Learn how they did it here (you read that right, they did all of that without exercising... yet). 

Success Story: From Post-Baby to Healthy, Hot Mamma!

Success Story: From Post-Baby to Healthy, Hot Mamma!

Meleah, a new mom, couldn't get over the fact that being a mother was the most amazing thing in this world, yet she was more insecure and self conscious about her body than ever before. Despite being terrified, she made a commitment to herself, her new son, and her family. A year later, she has lost all her baby weight and more. Here, she shares her very vulnerable, real, and transparent story. If a mom, you've definitely got to read this. 

The day I became an "Athlete"

The day I became an "Athlete"

Cheri had never considered herself athletic, much less an athlete. A few weeks ago Cheri competed in FemSport, an empowering Women's Strength and Fitness Competition. Cheri placed 3rd in her category, but her greatest joy came from the atmosphere of women encouraging other women to give it their best; whatever their best may be. "If I can do it, you can too". Read her encouraging story here! 

Success Story: Sharon Stepp

Success Story: Sharon Stepp

Sharon joined Encompass just over one year ago to help her recover after knee surgery. Now, she is stronger than ever, has lost over 30 pounds of fat and 18 inches, and has gained back the confidence and energy to approach life without fear of her abilities holding her back! 

Kaila Jutras: Success Story

Kaila Jutras: Success Story

When Kaila heard she had won our KickStart Giveaway contest in May, she cried. Returning back to work after maternity leave, it was exactly what she needed. Only 3 months later, Kaila is down 35 pounds and looks and feels amazing. Read her story (and enter to win our Fall KickStart Giveaway) here! 

Success Story: Michella Prokop

Success Story: Michella Prokop

Two years ago Michella dropped in to a single class at Encompass. At the time she was a "runner" but was after a more trim and toned look. Since then, her mindset has completely changed. She has learned how to eat to fuel her body, exercise to support her goals, and can now run faster and further than ever before. Plus, her husband has joined her on her journey as well. Read her story here!

Not Your Typical Success Story: Vanessa Marcotte

Not Your Typical Success Story: Vanessa Marcotte

One year ago Vanessa's doctor gave her the chance to try to reduce her blood pressure on her own before relying on medication. Today, her blood pressure is no longer a concern, her health is better than ever, and she is down 50 pounds. Her transformation is amazing, but it wasn't always easy. Read her story, and her tips and advice for anyone looking to start exercising here.