Ruslan Kedik: Over the last 12 months, what would you say have been your biggest stumbling blocks and why?

Anonymous Participant: I've had a few challenges over the past year. I had pneumonia for a month in February and that halted a lot of progress I had made.  I was also dealing with moving into a new town and the challenges of starting a life in an unfamiliar place, making new friends and becoming familiar with my surroundings. Some days it's tough to get up and go, some days I'm not strong in the gym. Some days I wish I was at the finish line already.

It's as much of a mental and emotional challenge as it is a physical one.

 

RK: What habits have you had to adapt to help you overcome these barriers?

Anonymous Participant: With the pneumonia I felt like I had taken a step backwards when I got back into the gym, but you had reinforced the positive factors, that I was back in the gym, and we would work to get back to where we had left off and continue, which we did. Moving to a new place is always a challenge, but over the year I have made some positive friendships and continue to enjoy this town. Regarding the mental and emotional challenges, I tell Ruslan what is on my mind, things that aren't related to what we do because everything effects you. Ruslan is a motivator, this is what he needs to know to keep me on track.

 

RK: What have been some of the changes you've made in your life and how have they impacted your well being?

Anonymous Participant: I would say the #1 change was sleep, I cannot believe something so simple, is so important. My entire life I never slept well, with the tips you gave me, I always sleep well now. This is the biggest change a person can make for themselves, and it's free. I'm rested, have energy and generally feel good everyday.

RK: How does it feel to hear all the compliments from family and friends and see yourself in photos today vs. one year ago?

Anonymous Participant: When I go home every few months, my friends and family are all so happy, and say this is the old me, I look younger, I feel younger. It adds to a persons confidence, it's almost like a drug because all the positive feedback and how people look at you make your day. 

RK: What advice do you have for my current and future participants?

Anonymous Participant: Ask questions if you don't understand something, be totally open and honest so Ruslan can better assist you. Some days are going to be tough, if you have an off day, it's okay, pick up your game for the next day. This is the best investment I have ever made and Ruslan has changed my life for the better. In the beginning this was about getting healthy and into shape, but it's turned out to be that and so much more. I live a totally different life now and I honestly have Ruslan to thank for this. 

RK: Awesome, see you at the gym tomorrow morning!