Niki
SEPT 20, 2021
UPDATE!
Today is September 20, 2021. I first met Ms. Jackie way back in February 2017. We are still “gettin it” at 5.30am(ish), depending on if I actually set my alarm!
This is my normal. This is my way of life. All those years ago when I thought I couldn’t change because it was too damn hard and scary, Ms. Jackie cared enough to mentor and guide me through and together we did.
Our journey continued, through Covid, lockdown, no gym. We found a way. I had some significant life changes which created a couple of pauses and then we picked right up again. My life isn’t the same unless Ms. Jackie and I are laughing our way through a grueling exercise routine. I sweat just thinking about it!
I’ve continued to maintain my physique and my weight is 110-115. I’ve never returned to the 140 I was when I first started. I confess sometimes my poorer eating habits return and I then know it’s time to refocus and with Ms. Jackie’s support we get back on track and I’m happier than ever.
I’ve never lost the habits Ms. Jackie helped formulate right at the beginning. I still send pictures of my food whether I’m on a challenge or not! I’m beyond grateful for the knowledge I have learned from Ms. Jackie and I continue to learn.
I have sung Ms. Jackie’s praises when compliments come my way about how strong I look or the definition of my arms. I immediately share I look like this because of my personal trainer, Ms. Jackie. She is the reason why I look the way I do - make no mistake I didn’t wake up like this. It’s been an ongoing, dedicated, and life changing experience. I’m blessed beyond words.
Then I think about our relationship and I break out laughing! There are too many funny moments that Ms. Jackie and I have had!
My Monday morning hot mess when I’m amazed I even know which arm is left and which leg is right! My face when I realize it’s wobbly leg Wednesday and if she’s asks me to go lower on that lunge, I’m know I’m going to fall over and definitely die!
Finally Friday with those exercise dice, which I’m convinced are stuck on one certain exercise she’s particularly focused on that week - because I seem to do a hundred in one roll! - go figure right!
Then we may squeeze in a Tues and Thurs because my work schedule changed. We are continually supporting each other no matter what life is throwing at us! Therein lies the beauty of Ms. Jackie.
A consummate professional, supremely knowledgeable and confident. Caring above and beyond about your goals and how she can positively influence you without drama or demands.
Ms Jackie changed my life in 2017, her motto is #TrustTheProcess - Ms. Jackie is The Process and she has my trust 100%. Always.
01/01/2020
One photograph.
Confirming my worst fears about how I looked.
Denial, Guilt, Ignoring, More Guilt, Broken Promises. I could go on and on as I recognized in that photograph what I already knew. I was terribly unhappy with what I saw and the responsibility was purely on my shoulders. I think we have all traveled a similar path at some point and mine was in reality no different to anyone else. It was the culmination of bad choices. Poor diet, little or no exercise and a million excuses. I had all the answers and yet I was very good at defending myself and convincing myself I would still fit into those clothes which may have shrunk in the wash as they do right?
That photograph did then shock me to the core. It made me cry.
I like to think I could have bluffed my way through and explained it was how I was sitting, it was the angle and so on. Sound familiar? It was a harsh reality wake up call. To others I looked just fine but it wasn’t about them. It was all about how I felt and no matter what anyone says you know you better than anyone. All I knew was I wanted to change but I didn’t know where to begin. I went to bed depressed and sad.
The next morning I woke up and as is mine and a billion other people’s habit I reached for my phone and opened Facebook. Scrolling through but not really seeing until I stopped and inhaled deeply. Out of nowhere or so it seemed was a notification about a 28 day fitness challenge. I sat up and took notice encouraged by the motivational headliners encouraging to take a risk and discover a new you! Only one slight problem I disliked gyms. Having experienced one disastrous time at a gym where I felt stupid and silly as I had no clue what to do or how to do it. So I was skeptical and very cynical. I continued reading not wholly convinced it was for me or if I was honest I was not confident I could make the call. Yet I was curious. A phone call could not hurt. I could make another excuse and try and find another solution.
I like to think I am a strong woman mentally but I had to fight my fear and make that call. I was nervous and did not expect anything to happen. Deep breath. I made the call.
The most cheerful and sunny voice answered. Immediately I lost my fear. I asked who I was speaking with and was told Ms Jackie. I told her I had seen the advertisement on Facebook and then words just tumbled out.
My fear of a gym, what if I make mistakes? what do I have to do? and most unrealistically will I see immediate results like the next day!
A bubbly laugh filled my ears. I relaxed as Ms Jackie took time to explain her role in the challenge and it was reassuring and believe it or not sounded like fun. It was also real. The results would come through my determination, my consistency and my accountability to myself. Wait! What! Hang on! I thought she was going to do all the work! Ms Jackie asked me to come down and watch a bit of a class. They were like a family. Motivating each other , all egos left at the door if you please. I agreed to visit.
That was a long drive or so it seemed! I was so nervous yet when I met Ms Jackie in person all my fears faded. A bright energetic lady full of good vibes and positivity. An instant connection. Immediate trust that this lady would help me to help me. It wasn’t going to be easy as nothing ever is but is was going to be worth it.
#Trust The Process. I watched the class intrigued and actually was asked to join in. When I shared I was possibly joining there was warmth and congratulations on what they all said was the best decision they had ever made.
I was in. And so it began.
February 13th 2017 – first day – killed me! Uncoordinated, breathless, unbalanced and any other failed words I could think of! Embarrassed and reluctant to continue until as a group we gathered round and bumped fists to the chorus of ” Hard Work!” and most importantly “have a blessed day” then a shout out for completing my first day – totally unexpected but my spirits lifted as they celebrated my success. Like many before me they had all been where I had was but I wasn’t alone.
Time for the measurements, photograph of the before – which I dreaded but swallowed and did it anyway. The weigh in. 140 lbs I was at my all time heaviest. A dark day for reality. Another deep breath. A new diet and a strong sense of partnership and new friendships.
Each day flew by and the first week was miserable! I cannot lie. I had sugar cravings, bread cravings, candy cravings, cheese cravings alcohol cravings (sshhh!) all being converted into healthy portions, veggies and protein and photographed. Every meal. Every bite mattered. Yet I was determined. Ms Jackie stayed true to her statements and made sure I was making progress. Every workout pushed my limits. “just one more” was the one that burned and hurt the most. Ms Jackie applauded every effort. Recognized when it was an accomplishment with a struggle. A warm touch, a positive wink kept me going.
The second week I improved. I felt happier, healthier and more determined than ever. Ms Jackie was my inspiration and I wanted to make her proud. The third week I was noticeably leaner and stronger physically. The final week came racing in. I had new habits, I couldn’t believe it but never stopped eating! I would occasionally slip and confess that one glass of alcohol got me! Ms Jackie never faltered. Helped me understand its ok. It’s ok to have that bit of chocolate, that sip of wine. Moderation and healthy living creates a better balance so we can enjoy those moments.
My challenge was over! My journey was completed. My lifestyle changed. Forever.
Fast forward to present time. Heading towards 3 years as we near the end of 2019. A weight loss of 25 lbs. Maintained. Weight 115 lbs except when that glass of wine turns into two , Chocolate is a couple more pieces than it should and the burger I must have every now and then. Yummy! Then back to my workout routine. I’m happier, healthier and less hungover!
Ms Jackie is more than a coach, fitness trainer, educator, motivator, cheerleader. I could go on and on. She is a dear friend and someone who made such a significant difference to my life. I cannot express enough the joy, laughter and fun we have had. The moral and mental support. The never ending giggles and understanding during challenging times.
Ms Jackie is one of a kind. I believe she came into my life when I needed her the most. Yes, she still pushes me physically! Supports me when my life is crazy yet I enjoy her and her family like they are my own. Her journey is equally amazing. Her struggles were real and genuine, so when she says “I know” she truly does. While she helped me she continued to help others taking those first steps to a better lifestyle.
Thank you Ms Jackie. You changed my life.
#Trust The Process – Ms Jackie – I did and I will continue to do so. Love you!
