Philip Himebaugh joined the Meltdown nation after a late night phone call in the middle of the week. Our general manager Trish picked up and could tell he was surprised to have the call answered. He came in strong and has been an inspiration to many in his short time with NGPT. Phil competed in our first inferno just a few weeks into his program and we asked him to share a little about his experience. Join Phil in the Inferno this Saturday and help us raise money for another inspiring story, read more here.

My name is Philip and I have been an NGPT client since October 2012.  I came into my first Meltdown at nearly 280 lbs. and in the worst shape of my life. My first class was Monday evening Core Cardio Blast with Megan Flavin. I made it through two stations before I had to rest for darn near the rest of the class period. So, just in case you were wondering if I know how you are feeling as new clients, I think I have a pretty good idea!

 I signed up for the first Inferno challenge earlier this year as a way to “gauge” my progress.  I never thought of myself as an athlete until I started at NGPT.  I was proud of myself because I felt like I was ready to at least participate in an event like the Inferno.  As a “newbie”, I’ll be honest – I was pretty intimidated at the Inferno. I realized, I’m “competing” against guys like Aaron Biggs, Jon McNabb and Coach Ray – I don’t stand a chance!  But that wasn’t the right attitude. I competed with honor, as Adam likes to say, and had a lot of fun doing it. I got to meet and compete with some real Meltdown Superstars like Chris Cockerham, “Cardio” Bill Howard and Eugene “Geno” Hopkins.  No, I did not make it very far in the competition, but I broke my own personal record on the rowing machine and that was a really proud moment for me.  I stepped out of my comfort zone and I pushed myself – and I beat my best.  I realized that I am strong and I am capable.  That was a feeling I hadn’t felt in a very long time.  I would encourage anyone who feels like The Inferno “isn’t for them” to give it a shot – I think you’ll be surprised by what you can do.   

I signed up for another Inferno because I was hooked after the first one!  At first, I just wanted to see how far I had come since the last one, but it has now become something much more symbolic for me.  This last Tuesday, January 29^th, I was diagnosed with a large pituitary brain tumor that is compressing my optic nerves.  I am looking ahead at this upcoming Inferno as a symbol of the battle I have ahead of me.  I know that I am going to have to give this everything I’ve got and fight hard, but I know I can do it with all the support I have found at NGPT.  I don’t think I could have said that had I found this news out before I joined the NGPT community.  I have proven to myself time and time again at NGPT that I am strong and I can overcome any challenge that comes my way.  And hey, if I can survive a Combat Cardio class with Adam AND a 20-pound weight vest, this tumor doesn’t stand a chance!  So, all you Bootcampers and Meltdowners who are experiencing some self-doubt, believe in yourself and make progress, not excuses!

Find out more about the Inferno and join us on February 9 to cheer on the competitors and raise money for an awesome cause. We are still looking for cmopetitors and sponsors for this event!