Each week, we celebrate our “board movers” at the studio, people that have hit a benchmark in their weight loss at the 30 lbs mark or higher. The “board” is a great motivator and demonstration of what is possible, it serves as an inspiration and an accountability tool. This week, Sue Reynolds joins our 90 lbs club and shared her reflection about NGPT for our Culture Book. We thought it was a great time to share her story and celebrate her success. Congrats, Sue!
Two and a half years ago, when I started NGPT, I couldn’t walk a half block or even tie my own shoes. Last summer, I ran five triathlons. I even “podiumed” a few times for the 60-64 age group! Last week, I hiked several miles on the Appalachian Trail and this weekend, I’m running in my first 10K race. What a transformation!
I’ve never thought of NGPT as a place to lose weight. Rather, NGPT is simply a place to gain health. NGPT provides everything I need: nutrition plan, exercise program, accountability system and most importantly, a culture of high expectations coupled with all the support and caring needed for success. When I’m describing NGPT, I always talk about the relationships I’ve developed there first – the culture of caring and support.
Caring was felt during my first class (Core Cardio). Someone who I had never met before offered to be my partner for the evening and took the time to help me at each station and assured me that the first class is grueling for everyone. I was so appreciative of her kindness. I also appreciated the trainer’s support as she provided alternative exercises for each station without making me feel like a failure. I distinctly remember how proud I felt when she yelled “Good job, Sue!” as I was struggling up Jacob’s Ladder. The trainers know what motivates each client and they strive to customize their support for each individual.
Kindness also came daily from my nutrition coach. She became a trusted “pen pal” that I wrote to every night and encouraged me via emails and text messages. I was pretty good about following the nutrition plan, but one time I ate a third of a LARGE jar of cocoa-dusted almonds (ugh!). Instead of scolding me, Barb praised me for throwing the remaining two thirds down the garbage disposal! I was so grateful that instead of pointing out my failure, she celebrated my success.
At the heart of this culture is NGPT’s founder / owner. I love hearing Adam say “Niiiiiiice!” when I weigh in. Adam has a clear vision of the kindness that he wants clients to experience at NGPT. He models that kindness and hires people who share his passion for helping people.
The most wonderful aspect of NGPT is that I’ve made friends there that have also become friends outside of NGPT. After doing my first triathlon, I learned there were other women at NGPT like me who were beginning to train to do their first triathlon. We got together, started calling ourselves the Go Girls, and all worked to help each other prepare for a triathlon last summer. Our goal was to finish and every one of us did! One overcame a significant fear of swimming. Another overcame a fear of swimming in open water. One raced the day after getting out of a boot to protect her broken leg! We inspire each other. We talk triathlon. We talk NGPT. We have each other’s backs.
Really, that’s what NGPT is all about – a group of people caring about each other and having each other’s backs.
-Sue Reynolds
