In January, my doctor confirmed my fear that I needed a total knee replacement. I was notified that the earliest I could do surgery was in July. I was in significant discomfort, had difficulty walking, felt miserable, and realized I needed to prepare for this surgery. This is not my first replacement. It will be my third so I know what to expect. Even though I am a Fitness Instructor, I need to get motivated and stronger.
I began working with Doug in March of 2023. At my first consolation, he listened to my entire story, then put a fitness plan together for us to work on. We meet twice weekly to gain strength in my legs, knees, and mobility. I will be honest I love being an instructor, but exercising alone was always a struggle until I met Doug. The way he motivates and encourages me is something I have never experienced before. He has a way to push me just one step further each time. At each session, he asks how I am feeling, how I felt after our last session, and then discusses what we will be trying to accomplish at today’s session. He is thorough in his explanation of each exercise we do. I struggle with various health issues, and on a bad day, he adjusts the workout to fit my needs. I can’t explain how his encouragement as I’m doing just a few more reps pushes me to succeed. His phrases “you can do this,” “just one more,” and you go this” I feel spoken with truth, from the heart, and heard throughout the gym.
When I went on vacation, he asked if I would have any equipment or area to workout. He then put together a series of exercises for me to do while I was gone. I got in two sessions, but I missed those words of encouragement to keep me going.
Doug makes coming to workout enjoyable. I leave our sessions exhausted, sweaty, pumped, and proud of my accomplishments. He always has a positive comment when we are done. We continue increasing exercises for the lower body, and now we have added some upper body.
I can’t believe how much I have improved. My pain level has lessened tremendously, I walk better, feel better, and scar tissue from the previous surgery has broken up around the knee. I feel confident both mentally and physically going into my surgery. I have Doug to THANK! I look forward to returning to our sessions as soon as possible.
Doug is an outstanding Personal Trainer! He makes you feel good about yourself, and with his encouraging attitude, you strive to do your best for him.