Vilma Irizarry lives in Coppell and is an engineer and works with clients to help them run their business better by using an enterprise system. This work keeps me behind a computer screen and on the phone a lot or in front of customers (which can require travel out of state). It can get pretty stressful and time consuming.
Q: Why did you decide to join the Get You In Shape program?
I decided I had to make myself a priority but I needed help. I needed someone to tell me what to do, how to do it, and I needed to make myself accountable. I had heard about others in Coppell using GYIS and I was intrigued so decided to check it out.
Q: What was your life like before joining the Get You In Shape Program?
Well, due to the pressures and stress of my job and trying to take care of four kids, I kind of got lost in the shuffle and basically got into bad habits: skipping breakfast and even lunch, eating late (and large!) dinners (and late night snacks), no time for exercise and going to bed late. Yep, something had to change!
Q: What was your first impression from the Get You In Shape program?
I was impressed with the knowledge of the trainers, and their level of interaction with the clients to correct form. I was a bit overwhelmed at first with the amount of information but over time, and with the help from other clients, that got better. I was also impressed with the camaraderie among all clients. Between access to the trainers, the FB page, and the interaction with team members a good system for accountability was in place.
Q: What have been some of the tools you have used that have benefited you?
Definitely My Fitness Pal was a great tool I got in the habit of using. The FB page was another great resource but by far the best thing has been the challenges that force us to interact with team members is what I have gained the most from! These people (trainers and other clients) understand what you are going through and make it a great environment with support and encouragement when needed. And also laughter!
Q: How is the Get You In Shape program different from other programs you have tried before?
I think it is the multiple dimensions that they cover. This is not just about exercise. It’s also about nutrition. It’s also about tools for success. It’s about accountability (in a friendly but effective manner). It’s about learning how to live healthily in a sustainable manner.
Q: What results and benefits have you experienced in the Get You In Shape Program?
I have lost about 21 lbs. since the beginning of January (so roughly in 4.5 months) and 17 inches! My clothes feel better. I can breathe! I feel I’m not over growing my skin.
Q: What would you say to anyone looking at this program?
What are you waiting for?! Seriously, though, if you are looking into a program like this, it is because you know deep inside something needs to change and you are ready, so why not do it now? Two questions I’d encourage you to try and answer for yourself are: What’s holding you back? And What’s your Achilles’ heel when it comes to healthy leaving? In my case, the answer to #1 was not knowing what to do and where to get started! Number 2 was realizing that not having breakfast was the number 1 weakness I had. Getting the day started right helped me fix the other things but identifying my #1 Achilles’ heel was key to turning things around. The GYIS program provided me with the environment to figure this out and fix it!
