Wednesday's Winners: Nadia Anac

Please join us in congratulating today's Wednesday's Winner, Hickam recruit Nadia Anac! 

Nadia has been working out with DumBell Fitness since August. "Prior to that, I was working out on my own, but not getting any results. I would go to the gym for an hour, then eat a candy bar later on to reward myself. I have lost 11 pounds since starting, with the major weight loss occurring this past month. My eating habits changed completely in January - I cut out all processed foods, I hardly ever eat out, and I've started juicing more frequently." 

In addition to Boot Camp twice a week, Nadia also runs at least two days a week. "The extra cardio, plus clean eating has given me so much extra energy! I feel so good without that excess weight." 

"Alicia has been such a motivating force," says Nadia. "I usually think she's insane in class for making us work so hard, but I'm always thankful for her the day after, when I'm sore and I know I've worked all sorts of muscles! The group environment is so much more fun than working out by myself!" 

Alicia and Nadia after class! 

Hickam trainer Alicia Palmer says, "When Nadia weighed in last month I saw the numbers on the scale and said 'Wow! What have you been doing differently?' She said she changed the way she had been eating- then I took a step back and looked at her- and realized that she really looks amazing!  It really makes me happy when it's obvious that people actually listen to what I am saying in class!"

Way to go, Nadia! Keep up the great work! 

Wednesday's Winners: Lauren Lanier

Please join us in congratulating Lauren Lanier, the December Biggest Loser Winner for the Ford Island 0715 class! 

After two months in Boot Camp, Lauren has lost 7 pounds. "I joined DumBell CORP in December, and I'm hoping to take my weight loss to the next level!" In addition to CORP and Boot Camp, Lauren is also training for the Great Aloha Run. When she can, she also squeezes in family hikes. "I'm still working on my diet with CORP, but my family really enjoys the array of fresh fruit that is available in Hawaii! I've never tasted pineapple so good! My goal with changing my diet is to not go for the prepackaged diet foods like I have in the past and instead learn how to make healthier meals for the whole family." 

Trainer Christina Landry has enjoyed watching Lauren's progress. "It has been a joy to see Lauren opening up to the world of fitness and health. With her hard work and focus on nutrition I have no doubt we'll see future successes from her! She always brings her A-game to class. I wish her continued success and know that she will achieve all the goals she has set forth for herself!"

Lauren and Christina

"My favorite part about Boot Camp is the other recruits," says Lauren. "I have met some really wonderful people, heard inspiring stories, and they make it a lot easier to get up so early and come. I love Christina for all her 'isms' that get stuck in my head. Every time I don't want to get up, I hear her pushing me on!" 

Congratulations again, Lauren! 

Wednesday's Winner Round-Up!

Today we are taking a look back at the fabulous recruits that have earned the title of Biggest Loser! Each of these recruits lost at least 4 pounds and lost the greatest percentage of their body weight out of their entire Boot Camp class. They all have unique stories, and we are honored that they shared them with us. Congratulations to all of our Wednesday's Winners! 


Cynthia Duarte 

Candice Chapman 

Sarah Lewis

Rebecca Schirmacher

Angela Wallis 

Christina Kotouc

Meredith Schimek

Kelly Fletter 

Lillian Lee 

Vicki Tennimon 

Amanda Kalski 

Justine Heinz 

Amber Mears 

Pam Chatham 

Lindsay Livingston 

Michele Kuepfer 

Amy Richards 

JoAnne Styger 

Denise Castellanos 

Lorraine Golden 

Wednesday's Winners: Lorraine Golden

Congratulations to Lorraine Golden, today's Wednesday's Winner! 

Lorraine just completed her first month at the McGrew Point Boot Camp and has lost 9.4 pounds! "Besides Boot Camp, I try to do 30 minutes of cardio every weekday, and I go on a 2 hour bike ride every weekend. Cheri tells us that 75% of what happens with our bodies she has no control over--it happens in the kitchen. Because of that saying, I am trying to stay off the carbs, but eat at least 5 small meals a day. I must admit, it's very hard to do!" 

After just one month, Lorraine is hooked on Boot Camp. "It quenches my thirst for motivation and socialization. Our trainer, Cheri, does her homework and makes sure we receive all three components of a well-balanced exercise routine--aerobic exercise, strength training, and flexibility training. Her enthusiasm always makes me want to try harder! My coordination is terrible, but I am trying to be fully present and perform all the exercises correctly. And now, I always listen to my conscience when I start to want to eat the wrong thing or want to skip a class. I am positive that with encouragement from the class and with Cheri making sure I get things right, I will at last free myself from the chains of obesity!" 

McGrew Trainer Cheri Kendall says, "Lorraine is new to the class but is really motivated to make a positive change to her body and ultimately, her life.  She is really quick to make adjustments when offered corrections and I can tell she is listening and giving 100%. Can't wait to see her progress in the coming months. Great job, Lorraine!" 

Lorraine celebrating her Biggest Loser title with Cheri! Congratulations! 

    

Wednesday's Winners: Denise Castellanos

Denise Castellanos, Ford Island T/Th 0830 recruit, is today's wonderful Wednesday's Winner! Congratulations! 

Ford Island recruit Denise Castellanos actually began as a DumBell CORP program participant. "I started CORP on August 15th, and combined with two classes of Boot Camp, I have lost 45 pounds and gone down 6 dress sizes!" 

Denise pre-Boot Camp 

"Prior to CORP," recalls Denise, "I was very much into the latest diet fad. I would try something for a couple of weeks, have a small cheat, and end up blowing my diet and falling back into my unhealthy habits. But, it would be much worse because I would binge. I would tell myself that it was the last time I would eat like that, so I might as well eat as much as I could. When I started CORP I was in a very low place. I was depressed and didn't like to go out much. From the very beginning, I felt Christina's passion for what she does and her vast knowledge on nutrition was so helpful and that lit a fire in me! I have learned for the first time in my life that food is medicine! I was able to learn how vital it is to eat the rainbow of vegetables and fruits of all colors! I watch my calorie consumption everyday and make sure that I eat at least 7 fruits and veggies daily. I eat lean meats and yams or spaghetti squash and a big green salad for dinner. My favorite new breakfast is Fage 0% Greek yogurt, 1 cup of berries and 1 ounce of chopped almonds sprinkled with stevia! I realized how important food was when I noticed my skin getting clear and smooth and I feel great." 

Denise attends Boot Camp twice a week, and then focuses on 60-90 minutes of cardio an additional 2-3 days a week. "I have also become a lot more active, and so much happier than I was 4 months ago!" 

"I can't say enough about Boot Camp," says Denise. "I know it sounds cliche, but it has changed my life. I am so grateful to God for DumBell Fitness and for moving me next door to Christina. Boot Camp challenges my mind and my body like nothing else! I can do 90 minutes in the gym and a Boot Camp workout blows it away. Christina has renewed my strength and given me so much fire and encouragement to keep going. She is always shouting encouraging words but I'll never forget one day she said, 'How about you do awesome all of the time!' And that stuck with me--I even wrote it on my fridge! Thank you to Christina and DumBell Fitness for changing my life!" 

"DumBell Fitness was created for spouses just like Denise--a spouse that has been through several deployments, several PCS moves, and had a few children along the way. She had put the needs of others before herself for way too long. These past couple of months, watching Denise's transformation has been like watching a butterfly come out of its cocoon. I have to admit, her journey and her measurements make me a little teary-eyed every month. I knew the happier Denise was inside there and I feel so privileged to be the person that greets the new her every month. Denise's success is what Boot Camp is all about---military spouses helping other military spouses. She is the epitome of the DumBell FItness program, and we are so proud of her." 

Denise with Christina after losing 12.2 pounds in the Oct-Nov session! Way to go, Denise! 

Wednesday's Winners: JoAnne Styger

Please join me in congratulating JoAnne Styger, Radford's Sept-October Biggest Loser! 

Since starting Boot Camp in June, JoAnne has lost 14 pounds. She had previously taken class for a few months after her third child was born, and returned this year after her fourth child. "I had seen such amazing results previously and had so much fun, I was ready to return!" 

JoAnne also looked to Boot Camp as a way to fight the baby blues, and to deal with her husband's deployment. "I remember, when my son was about 2 weeks old, sitting on my couch in the middle of the day and bursting into tears. I had struggled with the baby blues in the past, and I had the thought, 'it will be pills, or I need to go running.' So, I chose running. I got on my treadmill that day, and every day after that. If I didn't get a run in, the next day was usually a 'bad' day. Boot Camp also helped me get through the rest of the deployment with my head held high." 

In addition to taking the Radford Boot Camp 2 days a week, JoAnne is training for the Honolulu Marathon. "I run for at least 1 hour, 3 days a week. I love to run and have no problem disciplining myself to do so; I need Boot Camp to get my muscles going. As for my diet, that is the most difficult aspect for me. When I first began, my husband was deployed and I had a goal to lose 10 pounds. Having that goal helped me to focus and stay on track with my diet. Now that I've lost my baby weight, and I'm training for the marathon, it is a bit more difficult to balance my diet because I need enough fuel to get me through all the hours of running, and I crave everything!"

"I love everything about Boot Camp," says JoAnne, "but I'll begin with the childcare, because without it I could not enjoy everything else. I have four children, and I homeschool, so I have very little opportunity during the day to work out. The childcare helpers are always so welcoming to my children and they have always enjoyed going to Boot Camp and making friends. I also love how challenging Boot Camp is. I am a very athletic person, and have been for about 5 years (with a couple pregnancies in there!), but I am continually challenged by the workouts. Currently I attend Michelle's class at Radford, and I really enjoy her enthusiasm and experience. On days when I feel like giving up (like today when it was SO hot), her encouragement is awesome. I also like how she gives us 'homework' and then asks us about it in the next class. She won't let us get away with anything on the days we don't see her. Lastly, I love the sense of community that Boot Camp provides. I have really enjoyed getting to know the trainers and other recruits!"

Radford trainer Michelle Ragain says, "I appreciate JoAnne coming every week and giving 100%! She never gives up, and always does the agility course 3 times! Her hard work in and out of class has really paid off. I know she will do great in her upcoming marathon!" 

Congratulations, Joanne! 

Wednesday's Winners: Amy Richards

Congratulations to today's featured Wednesday's Winner, Halsey recruit Amy Richards! 

Amy began Boot Camp at Halsey in September, and has lost a total of 9 pounds. "A little something I hadn't shared with anyone was that I had actually gained 2 more pounds between my initial weigh-in and my first Boot Camp class. So although I clocked in at losing 4.4 pounds last month, I knew personally I had lost 6 pounds and felt even better about my achievement!"

On her days off from Boot Camp, Amy enjoys biking on base to run her errands."During the week when my daughter is in pre-school, my 2-year-old rides on my bike with me. I find it gives me a fun way to exercise that I look forward to doing because it also gives me the opportunity to bond with my daughter. I usually average between 5.5-6 miles of constant cycling when we do our rides."

"I have completely modified what I eat," explains Amy. "When my husband would deploy, I would eat out at fast food restaurants with my daughters rather than take the time to make a dinner because it was 'easier.' It had gotten to the point that it was more habit versus actually liking the food--in fact I found it pretty gross, but it was a quick fix for me. I took a step back and realized that I had to eliminate all fast food from my diet. Now, my diet consists of eating a bowl of oatmeal for breakfast with a cup of tea. I usually have either a salad with grilled chicken and some type of vinaigrette dressing or cut vegetables for lunch, then a normal dinner of some meat, starch and veggies. I have limited the amount of pasta I make as well. I went from having some type of pasta meal 3-4 times a week to once a week, if that, now. I finally realized I could no longer eat like I did when I was younger--as much as I had convinced myself that I could, at my age the weight will just add up and be very difficult to take off."

Amy has always loved to bike, rollerblade, and swim, but she would never go to a gym. "But, I constantly signed up for memberships! It got to the point where I would joke about how I 'donated' to the gyms where I had a membership. Because of this, my husband wasn't supportive when I first brought up Boot Camp--he thought it would be a waste of money. Despite his objections, I still signed up for Halsey, unsure of what to expect. Alison made me stick with it! She nicknamed me Boston on day one, and it has stuck! She is a firm trainer who calls me out when she sees I'm using the wrong form or slacking--she never misses anything! That type of trainer is exactly what I needed because it keeps me motivated. The ladies in the class are also motivating. Everyone rallies to keep each other going; this is support I could never get at a gym!"  

Trainer Alison Fournier says, "Amy is always pushing herself to do her best in class. She absolutely rocked her first month!" 

"My final motivator was when my husband said I wouldn't stick with it," says Amy. "I understood where he was coming from based on my past behavior, but I wanted this time to be different.  So I stepped up to the class on my first day and said 'I'm going to do this and I want to get that Biggest Loser title my first month.' So here I am today, into my 2nd month of Boot Camp, I feel healthier, I look better, my weight is coming off and I feel like I am setting a good example for my girls."

Congratulations, Amy! 

Wednesday's Winners: Lindsay Livingston

This week's featured Biggest Loser is McGrew Boot Camp, Lindsay Livingston! Congratulations, Lindsay! 

Lindsay has been in Boot Camp at McGrew Point for two months and has lost 5.8 pounds, 2 inches, and 4.3% of her body weight. Her workout routine involves class 3 times per week and she runs 2-3 times per week. "I've been able to participate in several races on the island. Running in races really helps me to set goals and feel like I've accomplished them! In all of the races I have pushed my 16-month-old son in the stroller. I like that he can participate and see his Mom living a healthy, active lifestyle! When I'm not at Boot Camp or running, I'm chasing after my son which is a workout in itself. On the weekends my family likes to get out and explore the island. We even did Koko Head with my son in the hiking backpack!" 

"I like to think of eating healthy instead of being on a diet," explains Lindsay. "It's a whole lifestyle change. I try to eat more whole fresh foods rather then processed things. Also I drink LOTS of water! I've started prepping my fruits and vegetables for the week, which helps when I need a healthy snack on the go! I also love trying new recipes which helps things from getting boring!"

Trainer Cheri Kendall says "I love having Lindsay in the McGrew Crew! She is such a hard worker and has a great attitude. Always willing to go another round and pushing herself to the front of the group. I am so proud of her change to a healthier lifestyle. It's harder to make that commitment to cleaner/smarter eating habits when weight loss is not your primary goal. She's a great example to her family and to all of us in the crew."

Lindsay looks forward to every McGrew class. "I love the high intensity workouts and childcare on site is a major plus! Cheri is always pushing me beyond what I think I can do. She motivates me to give it my all every single set, especially when it's Week 4 and the count goes up to 16! I might be sore the next day but I know it's helping to make me stronger. I am so thankful for Dumbell Fitness and Cheri!" 

Cheri and Lindsay flexing their guns! 

Wednesday's Winners: Michele Kuepfer

We are so thrilled to be sharing today's Wednesday's Winner profile with you! Michele Kuepfer is about to begin her 4th month with DumBell Fitness, and is losing staggering amounts of weight. We are so proud of her commitment and love watching her journey each month! Congratulations, Michele! 

Michele just completed her 3rd month of Boot Camp, and already has 2 Biggest Loser titles under her belt. "I started losing weight before joining Boot Camp, and at my heaviest I weighed 317 pounds. In the last three months of Boot Camp, I have lost 42 pounds." 

Michele, after her first month of Boot Camp, on top of Koko Head 

In addition to attending class at Pearl City three times a week, Michele also walks 3-5 miles 5 days a week. "I also hike at least once a week. I try to do at least 1 5K run/walk per month. I am eating clean and have gotten rid of all soda, juice, sweet tea, and fast food. We eat 99% clean now. I also use Advocare supplements." 

"I am so grateful that I found the Pearl City DumBell class. I'm not sure I would have stuck with it if I didn't have these ladies. I have several obstacles including being morbidly obese, a fibroid in the arch of my foot, and lack of confidence. The thing is these ladies don't care about any of that. Instead they push me, they support me, and they make me believe I can do this." 

Trainer Laurie Weber has loved watching Michele's committment in class. "I have had clients with big weight loss goals feel defeated when trying to participate next to more athletic ladies. But not for Michele – she uses the energy around her. She does not stand at the back, she is in the middle of it! This program and the exercises we use are challenging for anyone, and sometimes extra challenging for her. On days where there are exercises that might not be right for her, I chat with her before class and give her the modifications. She does not let anything stop her. Not even a literal mountain on 'off' weeks.  As a group we took on the Koko Head climb. So did she. I checked in on her a few times on the way up, there were some ups and downs emotionally…but what counted is that there were more 'ups!'  She told me, 'I used to be a Marine. I used to look like you. I want this!' When she made it to the top I was looking for the TV cameras. There were so many friends and complete strangers cheering her on and not a single dry eye!  As a trainer I hope that I inspire and encourage all my clients. This time I am lucky to be on the receiving end."

Michele holding the weight she lost after her August Biggest Loser win! 

"Laurie does not accept excuses and that is what I needed," says Michele. "She also lets me know that I am not a failure. I went to Koko Head with several of the ladies on my first off week from the class. At the half way mark I was sure I was done. Laurie came down the mountain to talk to me and to tell me I didn't need to go any further, and that I had already made it farther than most. Because of her and the other ladies I actually made it to the top. I cried several times, but I did it. I still have a long way to go in my journey, but I know with DumBell's help I will get there." 

Michele after her September Biggest Loser win! Way to go, Michele! 

Laurie is Michele's biggest cheerleader! "I have heard that people who make the most progress with weight loss/wellness are not the people with the strongest willpower, but the ones who are ready to change… for good. Not for a few weeks, but for a lifetime! Michele is that person. I want all of my clients to reach their goals, but I really cannot wait to see Michele at the end of her fitness journey!"

Wednesday's Winners: Amber Mears

Today's post features the August Biggest Loser for our Halsey Terrace AM Boot Camp, Amber Mears! 

Amber first learned about DumBell Fitness through another spouse who bragged about how great the program is. "I knew I needed to start this journey after seeing a picture of myself from my daughter's baptism, which was taken 1 month before I started class. I was actually embarrassed when I saw it. My daughter was 6 months old and I was still carrying the majority of my baby weight and I needed someone to push me more than I could myself! DumBell Fitness was exactly what I was looking for!" The hard work has paid off--Amber is in her fifth month of Boot Camp and has lost a total of 22.4 pounds! 

Amber one month before joining Boot Camp 

Outside of Boot Camp, Amber is a regular at the new Pearl Harbor Base gym. "On those days, I concentrate on cardio and toning exercises. I love to warm up on the elliptical and then move on to an intense toning routine with free weights and abs." Like so many of our Boot Campers, Amber's diet is her biggest challenge. "I try to keep it to lean chicken and pork with vegetables and not fall into the quick, easy junk for dinner, even when life as a wife/mother gets busy." 

Simply put, Amber loves Boot Camp! "Alison is positively motivating and knows how to push me beyond what I think is possible and always keeps me wanting more. The Halsey Crew also makes Boot Camp such a positive experience. We all cheer, support, and lift each other up. Together, we push through the hard work outs! I am still 27 pounds from my goal, but I have no doubt that Alison will help guide me to where I want to be." 

Trainer Alison Fournier says, "Amber is an inspiration to so many! She keeps pushing through month after month and doesn't let anything get in her way.  Amber's determination shows and her results are amazing....I'm so proud of her!" 

Amber with her husband at the Khaki Ball last month! Looking fantastic! 

Wednesday's Winners: Pam Chatham

Congratulations to today's Wednesday's Winner, Pam Chatham! 

Pam started at the Hickam Boot Camp at the end of April and is in her fifth session of class. She has lost 18 pounds total! "Being a stay-at-home-mom, it's hard to put yourself first. I knew this was something I needed to do for my health and to teach my daughters how important it is to take care of yourself. I want them to think of me as strong, inside and out. It started out as trying to lose the baby weight, but now it's about so much more. I've shed the baby weight from both my first and second babies, and now I'm on to my ultimate goal of reaching my honeymoon weight!" 

Pam shortly after having her second child

In addition to Boot Camp on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Pam runs on the treadmill in her garage on Monday and Friday while her oldest is in school and her youngest naps. "My diet has been a challenge, and the DumBell CORP class helped me a lot. I am nursing, so understanding how my body needs the extra, healthy calories has been an eye opener. Instead of undercutting my calories, I've learned to meet my calorie needs and use working out to create that deficit for weight loss. I don't want to lose muscle, just fat!" 

Pam is always inspired by the Hickam ladies! "I love watching them getting stronger and smaller every month. And I love seeing how much stronger I get each month as well! Alicia is an excellent trainer. She is such a role model for all of us--she has two small children, a husband that is also deployed, but finds time to stay in supreme shape! If she can find time to workout, so can I!" 

A few of Pam's favorite Alicia-isms: 

"Squeeze your butt today so someone else will tomorrow!" 
"I don't take vitamins. I buy vegetables and I EAT THEM!" 
"This is cardio, if you aren't out of breath, you aren't doing it right." 

Alicia loves Pam's attitude in class. "Pam always has a smile on her face, even when she is obviously working her tail off in class.  She has made consistent, steady progress toward her goal every month and I am so proud of everything she has accomplished!"

Pam with trainer Alicia Palmer after her Biggest Loser win! 

 

Wednesday's Winners: Justine Heinz

A big congrats to this week's Wednesday's Winner, Justine Heinz! 

Justine hit the ground running her first month at the Ford Island 0715 Boot Camp and nabbed the Biggest Loser title! She lost 4.2 pounds, totaling 3.6% of her total body weight. "I was so happy!" says Justine. "I know it doesn't sound like much, but I'm petite, so 4 pounds feels like so much more!"
 

For exercise outside of Boot Camp, Justine also does additional weight training, running, and hot yoga. "I love exercising; the hardest part for me is diet. I try to stick to a diet of mainly fruits, vegetables, and lean meats, but sometimes I stray. I love to bake, so recently I've been trying to come up with healthier versions of my favorites."
 

Justine is an avid runner, and is using Boot Camp to become a better competitor. "This year I participated in my first half marathon, the Wahine half, and my only goal was to finish without dying or running out of time! Currently, I'm training for the TinkerBell half marathon (at Disneyland!) and I want to improve my time. I was looking for an extra push when my friend Ali invited me to the DumBell Fitness Zoo fundraiser. I loved the workout and signed up the following week. Christina is great! She's motivating and funny and pushes me much farther than I'd ever push myself. I've noticed since joining bootcamp a drastic improvement in my training runs--I've increased my endurance and my speed! I'm confident that, with the help of Christina, I'll be able to beat my half marathon PR in January!"

Christina loves having Justine in class. "She gives 100% in every exercise. Losing 4 pounds is a huge accomplishment for someone as tiny as Justine! I couldn't be happier or more proud of her. I know her continued dedication to strength will make her runs even faster as she continues to train for the TinkerBell race. When I asked Justine if it was just the class that helped her lose the weight, she said no--she also ate right with a clean diet. It's always a dual commitment in weight loss: clean eating and exercise. Justine is proof that we all could benefit from cleaning up our diets just a bit more."  

Way to go, Justine! 

Wednesday's Winners: Amanda Kalski

Please join us in congratulating Ford Island Boot Camper Amanda Kalski, this week's Wednesday's Winner! 

Amanda has been in class for only one session and has already claimed the Biggest Loser title! In her first month, she lost 4.8 pounds, 4 inches, and 2.9% body fat. 

"My routine is Boot Camp on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and I go to the gym on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday," says Amanda. "At the gym I typically just do cardio because I am not very knowledgeable at using the machines. I burn a minimum of 500 calories, and I split my time between the elliptical and either the treadmill or bike. At night my husband and I go on a .75 mile run. I take Saturdays off. During my week off, I went to a Core and Conditioning Class at Hickam fitness center on MWF." 

Amanda tries to eat 3 square meals and 2 snacks per day. "I always eat Oatmeal Squares with skim milk for breakfast, and my morning snack is usually a Fiber One bar. Lunch is usually a turkey sandwich with fruit and chips (but only the serving size!). For dinner we try to eat something with ground turkey or chicken. If I need dessert, I split a Skinny Cow Ice Cream with my husband. Both my birthday and anniversary fell in July, and though I did 'cheat' on those two days, I still made sure to work out on both of those days." 

"I love that Boot Camp pushes me to my limits," says Amanda. "It is definitely a better, harder workout than I would do on my own. Christina is motivating and pushes me to work my hardest during that one hour of Boot Camp!" 

Christina was very proud of Amanda for winning the Biggest Loser title during her first session. "She had a rough first month but I could tell that she was determined to make a change in her life. She literally pushed herself everyday to complete muscle failure. I would see her take an occasional break, then get right back in line with the workout. Amanda's success proves that this program is designed for all levels of fitness. She never completely quit; she always pushed through to a new level of fitness for herself and I admire that so much! I look forward to seeing her continued success at our Ford Island Boot Camp location."

Keep up the hard work, Amanda! Congratulations from everyone at DumBell Fitness! 

Wednesday's Winners: Vicki Tennimon

Congratulations to today's Wednesday's Winner, Vicki Tennimon! 

"I won Biggest Loser after my second month at the McGrew Boot Camp. I lost 6 pounds!" says Vicki. "I actually gained a pound my first month, although I could see changes in my body and could definitely tell a difference in how I felt and my in overall fitness. So I stuck with it and started seeing the results on the scale in the second month!" 

In addition to Boot Camp, Vicki runs about three miles around her hilly neighborhood, and also uses workout videos now and then. On the weekends, she also likes to run 5Ks with her husband. "As far as diet, I don't do anything super special with my diet besides watching my calorie intake and trying to eat a well-balanced diet. I try to focus on meals that incorporate as many healthfully prepared whole foods as possible. To help me watch my calorie intake and track the calories I burn, I love the iPhone app from www.sparkpeople.com; both the app and the site are free!" 

I love the entire McGrew group!" enthuses Vicki. "It's a very supportive, friendly group of people with just enough competition to keep you on your toes! Cheri is an awesome coach! She knows how to motivate you when you're losing steam and is always there when you need some help or advice offline. She's very knowledgable about health and fitness and I think her personality is a great fit for bootcamp!" 

Trainer Cheri Kendall returns the compliment! "I love having Vicki in class! She has a great 'can do' attitude and a rockin' sense of humor. She's laughing even when struggling through a challenging exercise. I really appreciate that she always gives 100% and I can't wait to watch her continuing transformation in the months to come!"

"I have about 35 more pounds I'd like to lose," says Vicki, "and I look forward to seeing what Boot Camp can help me accomplish in the months to come!

Vicki and Cheri flexing those McGrew Crew muscles! 

Past Wednesday's Winners: Check 'Em Out!

One of our favorite regular blog offerings is our Wednesday's Winners! Each month, one recruit from each of our classes is awarded the Biggest Loser title. They have to lose at least 4 pounds, and then lose more weight and inches than anyone else in their class. Their success is such an inspiration to us and to their fellow classmates! With that said, today we'd like to highlight our past winners, and tell them thank you once more for sharing their stories with us! 

Cynthia Duarte 

Candice Chapman 

Sarah Lewis

Rebecca Schirmacher

Angela Wallis 

Christina Kotouc

Meredith Schimek

Kelly Fletter 

Lillian Lee 

Congratulations again to these fabulous members of the DumBell Fitness Family! 

Wednesday's Winners: Lillian Lee

We are excited to feature Ford Island recruit Lillian Lee as today's Wednesday's Winner! Congratulations, Lillian! 


"I began Boot Camp on Monday March 26th, weighing in at 176.4 pounds, " says Lillian. "On June 27, I weighed in at 161.2 pounds. I have a lost a total of 15.2 pounds and 11.75 inches, despite taking a vacation in August!" 

Lillian before joining Boot Camp!

Lillian's workout routine is three "magical" mornings a week at the Ford Island MWF 0830 class, and she is still searching for her favorite cardio workout. "I've done a couple SPIN classes (no ma'am!), a couple Zumba classes, and some other offerings at the base gym. Nowadays, you'll also catch me moving during my children's sports practices (even if it's just walking or stretching) instead of just sitting and waiting." 
 
Lillian is focusing on healthier choices, moderation, and monitoring portion and serving sizes. She also added eating breakfast everyday to her routine. "The 'new me' still enjoys her favorite treat, but much less frequently and in a smaller container!"

Christina has enjoyed watching Lillian's success. "Lillian was one of my many peer pressure enrollments! I would see her walk her little dog around Ford Island while we, the MWF 0830 group, worked out and I would always yell in her direction that she should join our group. (I'm a huge fan of positive peer-pressure!) I could tell that she was just trying to keep up during her first month. However, by the second month she was doing more than keeping up! She was working out harder, lifting more, running faster, and even smiling occasionally during the workout! Her success is proof that sometimes we all need just a little encouragement, a little push to make ourselves better. Lillian is well on her way now, and I love seeing her physical and emotional overhaul."

"I love that every routine has been different the entire duration of my time attending Boot Camp," says Lillian. "My trainer is NOT predictable and she is sincere about empowering individuals. You may hear your name from time to time for the good, the bad, or the ugly. Christina lets you know she is ALWAYS observing, when you least expect it! Everyone has their own story about how she inspired them; she has been able to encourage and improve such a diverse group of spouses. Thank you for letting me share my part of the story."

Christina and Lillian showing off those biceps! 

Wednesday's Winners: Kelly Fletter

Today's Wednesday's Winner is long-time recruit, Kelly Fletter! Congratulations, Kelly! 

Kelly first began taking Boot Camp in November 2011 at Halsey Terrace. She switched over to the Hickam AFB course when it opened in January 2012, and has been a member of the class ever since! She was also in the inaugural class of CORP, the DumBell supplementary nutritional course. "I have lost 38 pounds since joining Boot Camp. Thirty of those pounds were lost since I started DumBell CORP in April." 

Kelly with her family prior to joining Boot Camp 

Kelly's workout routine is Boot Camp twice a week, and running three times a week for at least an hour. "On top of that," says Kelly, "I have an elliptical, SPIN bike, free weights, medicine balls and bands at home. I aim to do at least 60 minutes of home workouts each day. I put an extra large comfy seat on my SPIN bike and put it in my living room so when I'm watching my shows at night I have no excuses to not be on it. When I use the elliptical I am on the highest level I can be and I push myself to feel the burn." 

Working exercise into her family's quality time is also important to Kelly. "We will go on bike rides and hikes as a family outing and I have gotten my kids into running. So far, they have completed two 10K's and numerous 5K's! Sometimes they don't feel like running when I need to, so they will ride their bikes along side me as I run. I'm trying to instill in them the importance of being healthy and active!" 

"My main struggle in life has always been my diet," says Kelly. "I started eating cleaner in August 2011 and noticed a difference right away in just how I felt.  Since I started DumBell CORP in April I have learned so much! Eating clean and and managing portion control is no longer a struggle for me. I learned so much taking that class with Christina and learned that I was not eating the best I could. I thought I was eating well, but learned that just because the label/box says it's healthy and good for me doesn't mean that's always true. If anyone is struggling, or even if you are not, I highly recommend that class. Knowledge is power and in the war of weight loss/getting healthy/staying healthy, the more power you have, the better."

"All the trainers are wonderful and I can't say enough good things about them," says Kelly. " I currently train with Alicia Palmer at the Hickam Boot Camp and she is awesome! She is always encouraging me and letting me know that I can do it.  She brings a lot of energy to class and we love it. When I first started Boot Camp, Alison Fournier was my instructor and I loved her, too! Alison always encouraged me as well by telling me how far I'd come since I first started class. Christina Landry has also been a big inspiration. CORP was my first real interaction with her, but every week when I weighed in she would tell me that she was proud of me and to keep up the good work. Even when there was a week when I did not lose weight, she told me to not let it get me down, and that she'd see me next week. These trainers and Boot Camp gave me the confidence and encouragement I need!" 

Alicia and Kelly showing off those biceps! 

Kelly's trainer, Alicia, returns the compliment. "Kelly is such a superstar! She is ALWAYS the first one to class, and always has such a great attitude. She is definitely an inspiration to all the other recruits!" 

Wednesday's Winners: Meredith Schimek

Congratulations to today's Wednesday's Winner, Halsey Evening Boot Camper, Meredith Schimek! 

July marked Meredith's fourth month of Boot Camp. She has lost a total of 12 pounds, 9.5 of which she lost in June!  "While I definitely started feeling better and happier about my physical appearance immediately, my weight loss didn't kick in until I decided to really focus on my diet as well." 

Meredith, with her daughter,  prior to joining Boot Camp

Meredith focuses on keeping her diet light. "I try not to eat past 7:00pm. If I do, it's raw veggies and cucumber water! I drink a lot of water throughout the day. The more I drink, the better I feel all round, especially during my Boot Camp sessions." 

"My favorite thing about Boot Camp is the way I feel after I leave class," says Meredith. "Alison is such a great instructor. I can show up in a horrible mood, but leave feeling great! I also love the support that everyone gives each other. Hearing Alison or the other ladies yell 'keep it up!' or 'nice job!' really helps to keep the adrenaline going." 

Halsey Trainer Alison Fournier says of Meredith, "She is always on top of her game. She pushes herself in every class--she is always counting and is in the front of the line for running and the agility course. She has done an amazing job not only with her weight loss, but also with the physical and mental strength she's gained. I'm so proud of her!" 

"I have been battling some medical issues for the past few years, and DumBell Fitness has done great things to help with them! Because I have a more stable metabolism and healthy way of living, it's even easier to deal with medicine doses. I have only wonderful things to say about this program!" 

Meredith and Halsey Trainer Alison Fournier! 

Wednesday's Winners: Christina Kotouc

Please join us in congratulating this week's Wednesday's Winner, Ford Island recruit Christina Kotouc! 

Christina began taking the Ford Island 0715 course in April. Prior to beginning, she had lost 30 pounds on her own. Since joining, she has lost an additional 20 pounds! 

Christina in August 2011

Her workout routine is Boot Camp 3 times a week, and some form of cardio 6 days a week. Her diet also includes lots of fresh fruits and veggies. "I am a Farmers' Market lover and get my fresh veggies and local tropical fruit every Saturday morning from my favorite vendors", says Christina. "I also make sure to measure out all of my portions, and I keep a food journal for accountability."

Her favorite thing about Boot Camp? "I love how positive and supportive everyone is. My first session, everyone kept encouraging me to come back and keep at it. Christina is also very encouraging. If I'm struggling with an exercise or with my form, she comes out and works out by me until I get it. She helps me push myself harder than I would on my own."

Trainer Christina Landry remembers when Christina first started the course. "On the very first day of Boot Camp I walked over to her at the end of the session. I looked her in the eyes and told her not to quit. She looked right at me and said, 'I'm not. I want this.' Ever since then she has consistently given her best during class. Sometimes she gets a little dizzy or sick. She takes a break for a few seconds then gets right back to it. Her running has improved, and she keeps buying stronger resistance bands. I love her enthusiasm! She sent me a photo recently of her pants from 50 pounds ago. It was amazing to see her progress. She is on a mission to get healthy and I love it!" 

The two Christinas! Love the matching shoes! 

Congratulations, Christina! We're proud of your success! 

Wednesday's Winner: Angela Wallis

Congratulations to this week's Wednesday's Winner, Angela Wallis! An inaugural Pearl City recruit, Angela will soon be PCSing to the mainland. We're thrilled to be able to feature her success today!

 
Angela has been in the Pearl City Boot Camp since Thanksgiving of 2011, right when the new location was opening. To date, Angela has lost 40 pounds. Angela says, "I began counting calories and taking control of my eating at the beginning of November, and lost 7 pounds before my initial Boot Camp weigh-in. I was wearing size 13/15 jeans and now a size 6 is getting too big!"

Angela and her son, pre-Boot Camp. 

Angela credits her success to religiously logging everything she eats. "I count calories and weigh my food. If I go out to eat, I usually know what I'm ordering beforehand. I have learned that I won't be a perfect eater when it comes to the types of food I eat, but I have taken control of my portion sizes and I choose healthier options when eating out."

"I was extremely hesitant about joining the class," Angela confesses. "I joined because my friend signed up and I had no reason to not try it, too. I watched the online videos and had a huge sense of fear before the first day. And honestly, my first day did not go very well! The 2-minute warm up was not easy for me. I was at the back of the group and my goal was just to keep going and to not stop or walk. During the class I felt faint and ended up spending some time lying by a tree. But I kept going to class and ended up the Biggest Loser that month!" 

Pearl City trainer Laurie Weber says, "It was clear that Angela would be a Boot Camp success the first time I talked to her about her goals. She had an impending PCS date and was looking forward to being reunited with her husband. She wanted to make some serious changes, and had a steadfast deadline in mind. She knew her life would change if and when she met her goals. Even when things got rough, she never lost sight of where she wanted to go! I could not be more proud of her. She looks amazing! I am continually inspired by the people around me that do exactly what she has done."

Angela says that Boot Camp has been a big motivator in keeping her on track. "I want to do well on the scale and/or with measurements every month for not only myself, but for Laurie," says Angela. "Laurie is extremely motivating and a great trainer. When my family had to go on emergency leave, she was kind enough to send me the workouts so I could continue while on the mainland. She is a great example of what can be achieved with hard work. She always says that she is not trying to show off, but to show what is possible."

"This is currently the last month that we'll be on island, and I'm sad to be leaving the class," says Angela. "I feel like I'm just starting to get to a good point with my health and fitness. Hopefully I can take everything that I've learned with me and continue to do well. And even though this is my last month, I'm hoping to put up good numbers and measurements for my final weigh-in!" 

Looking fantastic, Angela!  Congratulations!