Beth’s Note: Meet Matt! I am enjoying sharing stories of those who have set a goal and succeeded. No one will say it is easy. Lynne cussed at the Zoom class & I am sure there were days when Hal did not want to run (see previous 2 posts). Matt is an example of determination & discipline.
Hope you enjoy! It’s all about how to enjoy the adventure even with the twists & turns that surprise us.
I had hit rock bottom. I was 284 lbs. I wore size 48 pants and XXL shirts that were starting to get too tight for me. I felt powerless and ashamed of my body. I believed that this had “happened” to me. Girls wouldn’t look twice at me (unless making fun of me). I dreaded gym class and having to struggle while my classmates had fun. I didn’t know what to do and felt lost .
Looking back, this was the best thing that could have happened to me. Ten years later I’m living my dream. I’m a CrossFit coach and personal trainer, in the best shape of my life, and have been dating the love of my life for 3 years. Hitting rock bottom was my rebirth. I let go of the victim mentality that led to inaction. I realized that everything in my life was under my control. Whether I could control a situation or not didn’t matter: I took control of my life and recognized that I controlled my destiny.
Losing weight is simple: a caloric deficit will lead to weight loss. The true work begins with finding the motivation and dedication from within. For me, the flip switched on for my New Year's Resolution. My resolution was simple: become who you’re meant to be. I didn’t give myself any options. I made the choice to change my life and stuck with it.
This rebirth led to a completely new life for me. Going from spending hours playing video games in the dark to working hard in the gym. My life now revolves around helping others and is dedicated to health and wellness. I got my degree in Kinesiology, am a personal trainer, CrossFit coach, health coach, and yoga teacher. I help others flip on this switch too. To make the choice to be their true self. To lose weight for good. To make healthy habits and live life to its fullest. No more excuses, no more exceptions.
Through my own studies and experiences I’ve figured out the formula for weight loss. More than weight loss though, this is the formula to a healthy and happy life. To increase your quality of life, to do the things you love for longer. Creating healthy habits that support the activities in life that give you purpose and meaning, and not just pursuing a number on a scale. It all comes down to nutrition, fitness, and accountability & support.
Nutrition is eating healthy food that supports and enhances your body’s capacities. Fitness is increasing your ability to move and live your life. Accountability & support means surrounding yourself with people that will aid in your pursuit of a healthier life.
My life completely changed when I chose to take back control of my life. I realized my life’s mission was to help others do the same. Taking responsibility for your health is a simple way to take back control of your life.
There’s no better time to start than today.
If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about online coaching, be sure to follow me below:
Facebook: Matt Markiewicz
Instagram: @mattmarkiewicz
Email: matthewjmarkiewicz@gmail.com
