I first heard about Stephen from a random google search for boot camps in the Pasadena area. I was newly engaged and desired to get in shape for my wedding. I found myself completely unmotivated and could not get to the gym to save my life. I'd never worked out with a trainer before and, quite frankly, thought it was a waste of money (I had the mentality of: why train with someone, when you can just do it yourself?). But, weeks turned into months, and I still hadn't done anything to move in the direction I wanted to head. So, I reached out to Stephen to find out more information about the classes. The morning class was the one that best first my schedule. Working out in the mornings and outdoors was the last thing that appealed to me. But, there was something about Stephen's demeanor and practical approach that I thought couldn't hurt. I also appreciated the fact that running was not part of the program. I loved when Stephen told me "I don't need you to pay me to watch you run". Hilarious. What did I have to lose? Absolutely nothing. So, I took the leap and started out. It was the best decision.
Within the first week of class, I noticed changes in my body. By Friday, I knew there was a difference in my midsection. As the weeks progressed, it was a thrill to take measurements and see the pounds melting off. I was reshaping my body, as I toned. As I focused on eating cleanly and getting enough sleep, I noticed increased endurance during workouts. Stephen was with me all the way, encouraging me, and always being willing to give me pointers on areas I had questions about. It was exactly what I needed. Due to his guidance, I embraced a mantra of eating right, drinking water, sleeping 8 hours, and putting forth my best effort each training session. Those simple things paid off. As people noticed my weight loss, they'd ask me how I did it. No one (including myself, when I really thought about it) could believe it was from just 3, 45-minute sessions a week and a diet that was completely satiating.
Working out with a trainer takes all the guess work out of exercising. I started calling it a lazy-workout, because that's the way it felt. All I had to do is show up and do the planned workout. I don't know why it was so difficult for me to see how beneficial workout out with a trainer could be. I loved not having to plan my workouts and just show up and work hard. At the gym, I'd typically end up straining a muscle from working out on equipment incorrectly or with the wrong weights, and I'd get bored from the same weekly routine. With Stephen, there was no fear of injuring myself and the sessions were always different, interesting and challenging.
I'd strongly recommend Boot Camp Pasadena to anyone that desires to lose weight or get in shape. It's a simple equation (eat right + exercise efficiently + sleep) to reach your weight loss goals! I lost 40 pounds (and 9 inches off my waist!) working out with Stephen and achieved my wedding goal weight (or, what I like to call, my 'carry me over the threshold' weight). I felt absolutely wonderful on my wedding day! I knew I put forth the time and effort and the results speak for themselves! I'm so grateful for Stephen and his program. I feel fortunate to have benefited from his expertise. Thanks, Coop, for all you have done for me! I appreciate you so much!
