Get Fit NH also awarded the individual with the biggest percentage of inches lost from their hips and waist. 

Katie chose Team Mental Toughness- Extra Effort. With her team behind her she won the Grand Prize of over $2400. I'll let Katie tell you more of her story. 

"In April of 2017 I began my weight loss journey. The boot camp I go to runs a weight loss challenge every spring. I hadn’t been going regularly, but decided to finally get serious about losing weight. I started off at almost 180 lbs - always tired, in pain, and depressed. I struggled to keep up with my young son. During the 8 week challenge, I lost 25 lbs. I continued to lose over the summer and by October I had lost almost 45 lbs. Then my mom got cancer, and things got stressful and the pounds started packing back on. I stopped going to boot camp and gained 15-20 lbs back over the winter. I was sad and frustrated because I had been so close to my goal.

Fast forward to this April. I was really looking forward to the weight loss challenge because I was set on reaching my goal, and hopefully winning the grand prize. It wasn’t always easy, but I stayed focused with the help of my family and coach. I ate clean, got back into hiking, ran up and down my driveway too many times, and push mowed my lawn with my old jalopy mower (the one that caught on fire last summer, lol).

During the challenge, I lost 19 lbs and several inches off my waist and hips (the inches were what counted in the contest). I’m down almost 50 lbs from last year and only 6 lbs away from my goal weight. This past Saturday was the reveal party to announce the winner... I knew I did well, but I had no idea how well others had done (there were over 200 people participating). To make this long story short, I did it - I won!

I’d really like to thank my amazing and patient husband Jon who was there to listen to me stress, help me out, and who was happy to stay home with Jonathan while I was off hiking or exercising (even on Father’s Day). He even ate veggie wraps that tasted like lawn.

Also a huge shout out and thank you to my coach, Nancy Carlson of Get Fit NH. You make training personal and fun, and you’re always there to push me harder or email me when I don’t show up. You changed my way of thinking and taught me how to eat right and not diet, which is huge. And, you are a huge inspiration to me. During training I always think, what weight would Nancy pick up?You’re old enough to be my mother and you’re still stronger than me  (and you have a great sense of humor, lol).

So in closing, here are some before and after photos, my coach and I, and a photo of my first purchase with my prize money - a new push mower!"

Michelle and Amanda met at Get Fit NH. They see each other at training and they are seeing results together. 

Listen for yourself: 

I'm proud of Amanda and Michelle for taking time each day for themselves. That time is helping them become better moms, spouses, employees, and friends. 

Keep Making It Happen,

Coach Nancy

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What you just watched was our 4:15 superstar, Ruth Littlefield, deadlift 165 pounds. I'll never forget the day Ruth started with us. Her biggest concerns were getting up and down off of the floor, kneeling, being in pain and just sick of feeling icky! Ruth has been training with us for almost a year (it will be a year in June!) during that time she has gained SO much to include knowledge, strength and confidence. It has been a coach's DREAM to watch this woman transform herself from the inside out. I am so proud of this woman right here and I am absolutely delighted to share her story...

In the fall of 2016 I started Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).  Through that work, I focused on mindfulness and awareness.  My therapist took me through a process to help me identifying what I value in life. The values that were calling out to me where self-care, connection, courage/bravery, humor, creativity, curiosity and contribution.  In order to move towards the things I valued, my therapist had me identify what I could do that would help me move towards those things and to be aware of what was moving me away from them. I was extremely sedentary, overweight, with high blood pressure, cardiomyopathy, asthma and other ailments.  Engaging in physical activity, especially movement that built my strength, flexibility and cardio would allow me to move towards all of my values. The challenge though was that I had never liked exercise, I had a pocket full of excuses, I was uncomfortable in gyms, and I didn't know what I needed to do to be successful.  But my therapist encouraged me to be brave, so I checked out a variety of places and programs hoping I could find a place that was a good fit.  I tried a Vinyasa yoga class that was not customized and way too advanced for me.  I looked for a personal trainer but had no idea what to look for or how to approach it. Finally, two of my co-workers told me about Get Fit NH. One has been coming here since it started.  The other friend was newer to it and had lost a lot of weight and gained a lot of strength. So I decided to check it out.  It took a while for a class slot that worked for me to open up and I was SO nervous the first time I came to a session in June of 2017. Everyone here, from the coaches to the trainees are so friendly, encouraging and non-judgmental.  

​When I started, I didn't know squat about exercising and I had no confidence in my abilities. I have learned that through my commitment to the work and the right supports (thank you coaches and all my co-trainees), I have the capacity to change.  It takes effort, patience, and a willingness to celebrate small changes while not being discouraged by set backs.  

The biggest surprise since beginning training is that I actually love working out now!  That is a bonus I never expected.  My favorite saying when I'm in session is "I just DID that!". At first, getting up and down off the floor was almost impossible.  Now I do it relatively quickly and without my knees screaming, although I am still not terrible graceful.  I just got to the place where I can bench press 40 pounds and dead lift 165 pounds (check out the video of me being "strong like bull!!!").  I feel so much better in so many ways.  Simple things, like being able to reach my shoes laces and walk places are so improved.  My Cardiologist says my cardiomyopathy is significantly better and that is life changing.  When I think back to those values I identified, Get Fit NH is definitely making it happen!!!

The spotlight is shining bright on Michelle today! I asked her to share her story after she came in one day totally psyched about trying on a pair of jeans that had been sitting in the back of her closet. She hadn’t worn them in a while and was nervous that they may be snug, but when she tried them on they not only zipped but they were LOOSE! She was ecstatic and rightfully so. It has been our pleasure to watch Michelle’s confidence unfold. Top that with results and she is a happy camper. I am SO glad you walked through our doors, Michelle. We are the lucky ones!  Here is what she has to say!

What did you seek out Get Fit NH?

My 51st birthday was looming and I pretty much failed at "fabulous and 50" and I knew I had to take action. I had belonged to a class that met x2 a week at 6:00 a.m.. Due to my work schedule, I found myself missing it more often than not. I had a membership to Planet Fitness but I couldn't get motivated to go. I had seen ads for Get Fit previously and had inquired. I received a call from Coach Nancy but never followed up. (See a pattern here?!) But I remained on the contact list and late in August, I received an advertisement for a 28 Day Metabolic Reboot for $99. Of course I was convinced it would a bait and switch situation where after the 28 days there would be an exorbitant rate increase but I thought I would try. Coach Nancy promptly called and set me up with a Coach. Coach Adam did my orientation and got me setup with my MyZone monitor and I started my 28 days in September. I really like the fitness test that was done prior to starting. This was done to ensure I was working at my capability level and would avoid injury.

What did you learn after your first 2 weeks?

I was definitely a bit shy and apprehensive the first few classes but the Coaches made me feel welcome. By the end of the second week, I was definitely hooked and having a blast! And I was already feeling better! Energy levels were improving and I was sleeping better. And I recruited a friend to join as well!

What results have you seen so far?

Well, this is definitely the best part! Besides having more energy and sleeping better, I am stronger and I am down a jean size! I feel so much better about myself and can't wait to see the continued results in 2018!

What keeps you coming back?

Besides the physical changes, it's the Coaches! They are awesome! During class, they always ensure my form is correct and they are always providing encouragement! They know everyone by name and they make the toughest workouts fun. And, I am challenging myself by making sure I go x4 a week. Life does get in the way at times and that's not always possible. Then I receive a reach out from Coach Meagan making sure all is OK and my motivation soars! I'll be honest, I need the push. Lars, Adam and Brian are awesome too - let's face it - you need to laugh a little to get through it sometimes! It's also the other members. It's a non-judgemental environment and I love the way others encourage one another. GetFit has definitely been a "fit" for me!

Keep up the hard work, Michelle!

Coach Meagan

At Get Fit NH we have many different training times during the day. They range from bright and early to hit training on the way home from work.  The people you see at Get Fit NH are as different as different can be as well. From almost 20 and just starting college to Grandpas and Grandmas who retired after a full career.

But there is a group at Get Fit NH that is often referred to others as “one of those people”.

‘Those People’ are the ones that wake up bright and early and get into Get Fit NH for a 5am training. Petra is one of ‘those people’. Petra is one of ‘those people’ 4 days a week.

Yet, I know we would have a consensus that Petra makes it just a bit easier to roll out of bed on a cold day to get to Get Fit NH. She is cheerful, chipper, and sometimes just giddy at that hour. She reminds me of the energizer bunny.

In November Petra competed in the Ski Erg World Sprints. She was thrilled she finished the challenge. It is now a spark inside of her to compete next year. In fact she is training now for it. She has a goal in mind. Here is her plan, she comes in a bit earlier- imagine that- to ski 1000 meters.

I asked Petra to give us some background into what drives her to be one of ‘those people’.

Hey Petra, why did you start coming to Get Fit NH?

“My doctor instructed me to lose 20 pounds and I knew I could not do this on my own and would need all the help I could get.”

 After your first 2 weeks, how did you feel?

“That I am totally out of shape and that the only way to change it is to stick with it and thanks to the support I am.”

How do you feel now?

“Due to all the travel for work during the first half of the year I was not as successful in coming every day; BUT--since July I am. Now it's December and my body feels great. I can feel and see the subtle changes and I can feel the strength in my arms and legs when doing yard work. Feeling great has taken away the emphasis on losing the weight. Watching not only what I eat but more so how much I eat and continuing training at Get Fit NH will help me achieve the goal of losing the weight.”

Overall how would you describe your experience at Get Fit NH?

“Get Fit NH and the 5am group makes exercising fun and I look forward to going. I thoroughly enjoy the group and the dynamics. Some days I do better with the exercises; some days I do not. What is important is: going and being there. To think how happy we can be at 5 in the morning! (Granted, it takes a cup of coffee and about an hour before for me to wake up … but, after the 5 am class and after catching my breath … I have energy like the energizer bunny!”

Honest and true ‘those people’ love Petra at 5am and so do I. Thank you Petra for being part of the Get Fit NH family.

Coach Nancy

It has been about three months being here at Get Fit NH. The work ethic I see daily from everyone that walks in the door has been amazing! No matter what the time, day, or location I am at everyone is always working hard! It is truly inspiring for me and has helped light a fire back in me!

 With all the hard work I see I would like to take a moment to shine a spotlight on Melanie Kenney! Melanie has been super consistent making her training, is always in a good mood, and is always up to any challenge a coach throws her way! I was able to talk to her about her experience with Get Fit NH so far to see how she is feeling! This is what she had to say:

What brought you to Get Fit NH?  

My good friend who trains at GetFit recommended it to me. Her and I used to work out together at another gym when I lived in town a few years ago. After I moved up north, I fell out of the routine of going to the gym. When my friend heard I was moving back to the area, she was quick to recommend this gym! 

What changes have you noticed since starting? 

​ I have noticed a big change in my stress level. Being a teacher is a tough job because it doesn’t just end when you walk out the doors. You are constantly thinking about lesson planning, meetings, how the day just went, how tomorrow will go, the kiddos and their home lives, everything!! Being able to take an hour of my day to just focus on myself and the training helps reduce and manage my stress levels. It’s been such a positive part of my routine throughout the week!

What have some of your favorite thing been?

I love the individual attention that the coaches offer. Now that I’ve been training there for a couple months and the coaches have gotten to know me, I love how you all push me! Whether that be by switching out my weights/bands or by modifying the exercises. This is something that was not available to me at the gyms I used to go to.

What are you most proud of? 

I’m most proud of how dedicated I’ve been to the training. I try so hard to make sure that I make all (or mostly all) of the classes. It’s part of my schedule and I make sure that it’s a priority.

What would you tell people who do not go to Get Fit NH? 

​I would recommend GetFit to anyone who was like me and needed the accountability factor. When I was paying for a basic gym membership, it was so easy for my to rationalize not going or putting off a workout. Having a specific class time and coaches who are just as invested in your training as you are helps tremendously! I look forward to seeing the coaches and the other people who train at GetFit!

Way to go Melanie! Consistency and hard work every day is such a strong building block to success! This is a spotlight well deserved!

​-Coach Brian

Did you catch that? Don has done the 48 4,000 footers twice. There is no doubt that once Don puts his mind to something, there isn’t much that will hold him back. 

He has a sense of humor that tends to sneak up on you. I emailed him the day he climbed Mt. Isolation. This is what he wrote me back: “Thanks for the note and your concerns. I am OK, just schedule challenged. Yesterday I spent 14 hours climbing my last 4000 footer which made me miss class (I was going to wear my Tu Tu on the hike but my backpack got in the way)”.

As his coach, I didn’t need to learn about his climbing 48 different peaks twice in his life so far to know that though. He has tackled getting to his goals in the last year. When he first came to Get Fit NH he wanted to a.) lose some weight and b.) increase his ability to be active at a higher level. 

In less than a year he has done just that. In his first six months he lost the weight he had desired. HIs goal for the summer was to maintain his weight while he had a bit more of a relaxed mindset and traveled. He did just that. 

Don has also accomplished gaining more energy to do more - hello, 48 peaks! 

I want to take this time to say congratulations to Don. Being a member of the 48 Footer club takes dedication, time, energy, and grit. 

The 5am crew asked Don if they could go hiking with him on his next hike. He said; “Sure, I’m going Saturday.” 

Keep Making It Happen!

Honored to be his coach,
Nancy

The one and only Deb Kaitz! I asked Deb to be in the spotlight because for 8 years she has been consistent, she works her butt off, she is competitive, she is strong, she is supportive and she keeps us on our toes! I would say Deb is one of the top 10 most competitive people in the gym. We love that about her! Her story is fun, because we weren't all here when she started to see how far she has really come. This woman never turns down a challenge and she rocks her goals. I am so proud of her and she is a true joy to coach! Here is what she has to say...

​"I had actually read about Get Fit when it first opened. I was hesitant to do it because I knew I needed to commit and for me the timing just wasn’t right. When they opened in Concord I thought I would give it a try. They had the two week free trial but I also made sure I was going to commit to giving it a good trial so I prepaid for the following month. 8 years later I am still going strong. In my 8 years I have never missed a day of class just because I didn’t feel like going. For me this is the first training/exercise program that I love. I never get bored as it is ever-changing. Unlike when I was at my other gym. I would go walk on the treadmill and maybe lift weights but never saw any differences in my strength or endurance. 

When I started at Get Fit I had really no upper body strength to speak of. I remember when we used to do testing in class. When we did the pushup test I got 0. I couldn’t do a pushup and in my life I had never been able to do one. Determined to get one I worked on this. And by the second testing day 3 months later I could do more than one pushup. When we moved into the “new gym” that had a pull up bar - again I couldn’t do pull ups but again I set a goal that I would get one pull up by the end of the year and I did. I have always been strong willed and if I set a goal I don’t like to fail. I feel like I set reasonable goals for myself and have been able to hit them. In the most recent movement challenge I set myself a goal of 50 movements during the month. I looked at what we had to do, did the math and knew exactly what I needed to do to reach that goal. The results for me can’t be measured by my weight because I think I weigh exactly what I did when I started. My results are measured in my strength. I play golf and had to relearn all my distances since joining as each club hits so much further. I am excited to say my Iron’s go about 40 yards further than previously. The other benefits for me would be my skiing improved dramatically and I can climb hills on my bike so much better than before training. If you are going to try it, commit - buy a month. 2 weeks free trial will make you sore from muscles you haven’t used, but too short to see results. COMMIT!

8 years strong! Can you remember what you were doing 8 years ago? She is one of many who have been here for over 8 years and we are SO lucky to have these people train with us. Thank you, Deb for you incredible commitment and fantastic competitive "can-do" attitude. You are a rockstar!

-Coach Meagan

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