My Success Story By Kate

Being a teacher, I have a busy schedule. On the go every day by 6:30am, then bringing home papers to grade at night. As with most of us, finding the time to fit in exercise was always a challenge. Over the years I have tried a variety of things, including a treadmill and countless videos at home (but always found something “more important” to do) and the “Big Box” gyms (but never really felt comfortable and it was rare to make a personal connection with instructors or other members).

Trim Up is a perfect solution. I have found that I really need group exercise..it helps me to feel like I have a commitment to keep. I know that I have carved that time out of my day just for me and it helps me stick to a routine. The instructors in the smaller group setting get to know you by name and expect to see you regularly. Other members tend to come in at the same time and you make new friends…someone to playfully complain with (“are your shoulders sore today too?” or “oh no, more squats!”) And don't forget the circuit. If I miss a class, I know I can get in there and get a great workout and have that same interaction with other women that makes it more enjoyable.

After being at Trim Up for awhile, I was proud of myself for exercising but I still had those tight fitting clothes! Although I didn't have a lot of weight to lose, I felt bloated, tired and unable to budge the scale more than a pound or two. So, I signed up for BodyCamp. Debi helped me take a look at how I was eating and how I could make some simple changes throughout my day. She helped me make a plan for how I was going to eat a healthier, more balanced diet. No more “Zero Carb” or “No Fat” diets that are unrealistic for long term habits. I started writing down everything I ate and focused on adding protein to support my nutrition as I exercised. Each week, Debi would give me tips on healthy foods I could pack for snacks at work or prepare for dinner.

And, after 2 months, I've had success! I lost 7 lbs, 5" and 2% body fat so my clothes fit better and I feel more confident. I have energy to work out after a long day at work and go home and walk the dog, too. Best of all, I have a whole new approach to healthy eating for the long term.

This teacher has an assignment for you - try Trim Up's BodyCamp. I feel great and you will, too!

My Success Story By Kathy O.

My experience began at Trim Up in February 2008. I had been a member of a gym that suddenly closed so I had to find another one . I had a mission-my son was getting married in July 2008 and I needed to lose weight and be in great shape for the pictures! My future daughter-in-law and I stopped in Trim Up and we were immediately met by Debi and Kelly who were so enthusiastic about this gym we had to give it a try. Right from the beginning all the staff was very helpful and offered great advice and support. Exercise and working out had not been one of my favorite things to do-but the classes helped change that.

Towards to end of April I talked with Debi about the Body Camp Program-I was losing weight but felt I would benefit from personal nutrition guidelines and support. Debi was great! She helped me figure out what to eat, how much to eat and the value of good nutrition. And the results were great-pounds and fat were coming off.

Two months before the wedding I had to return my Mother-of-the-Groom dress and get a new dress-2 sizes smaller!! On the day of my son's wedding I felt great and had many compliments on how I looked-I owe all of it to Debi and the staff at Trim Up.

Now the wedding is over but I'm still working out all I can-I recommend the Body Camp to everyone. Not only does it help you lose the weight, but also it changes your eating habits for long-term life style changes.

My Success Story By Becky

It began with the little green and pink card I received in the mail and carried in my purse the entire month of December. Each time I would get into my purse for something, there it was.that green & pink card. Finally, I decided to go visit "Trim Up" and just find out what they had to offer. I had gained weight during/after a couple of health issues and was very dissatisfied with the way I felt and looked. Having suffered 3 fractures my doctor suggested regular exercising to help with osteopenia (low bone density) that had been diagnosed.

All it took was that first visit. When I walked in the door, I was welcomed with enthusiasm by the owner and staff. I immediately felt as though I had been there before. The colors of the rooms were the familiar green and pink just like the card that I had carried around. I signed up for a membership that very day. A week later I signed up for Body Camp, a 12 week commitment to exercising, eating right and keeping a diary.

With each week's weigh-in and measurement taking, Debi and the staff offered encouragement and shared my joy toward each step to reaching my personal goal. All of the trainers have been supportive and helpful which has made a difference in my success. To date I've lost 20 lbs, 13 total body inches and 7% body fat. While the initial purpose of my visit to Trim Up was to lose weight, I must admit that I've also gained some friendships. I have met so many nice people and have shared laughs with people that I would never have known had I not joined Trim Up.

Trim Up is a fun place to be....from fit ball to circuit training, from step class to Pilates, from WOW to yoga....from the encouraging phrases written across the walls to the friendliness of the staff (and I can't leave out the boutique with all of those neat work-out clothes). Debi hasn't missed a beat in bringing an atmosphere of feminine beauty with strength and well-being to Trim Up. I'm thankful for the day I received that little green & pink card. It was a new beginning for me.

My Success Story By Billie

My story begins in 1987 when I was at Preslar's Dry Cleaners picking up my dry cleaning and noticed "Trim Up" next door. I walked over to check it out and decided to join. I had been a member of the YMCA, but preferred a smaller all women facility. Trim Up was exactly what I was looking for and it was only a few minutes from my house in Matthews. For the next 10 years I worked out on a regular basis and met some of nicest ladies who are all my very good friends. It was a sad day when Debi decided to close Trim Up.

I looked around for a new place to work out and decided to give the Y another chance. They had just opened a brand new facility and it was very nice. I enjoyed some of the different types of classes, but I never truly was comfortable with the large classes. I didn't know many people in the classes and felt like I was lost in the crowd.

Billie in 1994

As a result, I never had a regular routine for working out like I had at Trim Up. I began traveling with my sales position every week and my exercise routine took a back seat to my career. Eating out on the road caught up with me and I started packing on the pounds. Before I knew it I had gained 15 lbs. in 1 year! I was miserable. I tried the Atkins Diet and lost 10 lbs. but could not keep it off once I started eating carbs again. I went to my doctor for my regular check up and my blood pressure was high. My doctor told me to get into a regular exercise program so I could lose the extra weight and get my blood pressure down to a normal level.

The roller coaster weight gain continued and I packed on another 15 lbs. by the time I was 49 years old. I was dreading turning 50 and being fat! Debi came to my 50th birthday party and mentioned the Body Camp program. She said she would give me a 12 week program for my birthday! I was nervous at first, but every week got easier and the weight starting coming off. The combination of cardio classes, strength training and pilates have kept my routine from getting boring. The circuit equipment is the best equipment I have ever worked out on and all the Trim Up staff and members are very supportive of my progress. After 12 weeks, I lost 20 lbs., 15 inches and 8% body fat. My personal goal is to lose 10 more. I went to see Dr. Brown last week to have my blood tested to determine my hormone levels. Dr. Brown believes the hormonal imbalances have contributed to my weight gain.

The Body Camp program is the best thing that I have ever done for myself. I am eating healthier foods and have more energy than I have had in years. My blood pressure is down and my doctor said with the weight loss he is considering taking me off high blood pressure medication. My husband and I are planning a vacation and he is actually helping me pick out a swim suit. I have not had the nerve to put a swim suit on in over 3 years! Trim Up is the perfect place to work out, tan, shop and to make great friends!

This was the best birthday present I have ever received! I am so glad Debi re-opened Trim Up!