Client Spotlight: Stacey Stillwell

This month we are celebrating a major milestone with our Client Spotlight on Stacey Stillwell, who has just reached her 100-pound weight loss goal. A full-time working wife and mother of three kids, Stacey began her journey this February, seven months after having her third baby and being completely stagnant for about six years. “The only movement I was doing was putting food into my mouth,” she jokes, “so I majorly went from 0 to 60.” Not only did she begin immediately working out twice a day but she also dropped her calorie intake to 1200-1500 a day after years of “eating everything I wanted. I don’t even want to know the amount of calories I was consuming,” she says. But with striking dedication and the support of fellow Fusionistas, she was determined to improve her life--and did so in a big way.

Madelyn, Stacey, Jackson, Stacey, and Jakey

I sat down with Stacey at one morning at Starbucks and listened to her animated, humble tale in awe of her commitment and shoulder-shrugging attitude about conquering her cravings and making herself get out of bed at 4:30 each morning. “I just did what I had to do—no excuses,” she says, crediting her attitude and accomplishments to the women who helped her. “The support I have received is just unbelievable. I almost get embarrassed talking about it, how amazing all of these women have been,” she gushes. With constant laughter and excitement, her warm presence and devotion to her goal inspires not only weight-loss journeys, but her faithful persistence can be applied to any uphill climb in life. Read on for a story of complete determination and her revelation that “our bodies and our minds are capable of so much more than what we think—it’s all possible.”

Losing 100 pounds is incredible. Losing 100 pounds while working full time, being a wife and mother to three kids (Jackson, 8, Madelyn, 3, and Jakey, 15 months), and doing it basically on your own accord is just jaw-dropping. What motivated you to create this goal?
Honestly, I was at a breaking point. I was pre-diabetic, had high blood pressure, and I was just plain and simply miserable with my weight. I was overwhelmed too—I had no idea where to start or what to do, and each day I would say okay this is it, today’s the day. But without direction I couldn’t do it and it was a cycle. Over the years I had lost 10 pounds here, gained 10 pounds there, but this was the first time in my life I was 100 pounds overweight. I knew I wanted to do something but I was lost on what it was.

"One of the two 'before' pics I had..."

Then one day I was at the salon with my friend Maureen Blount and I just broke down crying. I sobbed about being so uncomfortable in my own skin, never going out, never wanting to see anyone. I knew Maureen had recently lost 60 pounds after her third baby, and I wanted to know how she did it. (Maureen was an inaugural client of Shawna Wright and her successful WLBC/AmpCamps.) She said to me, “let’s start tomorrow,” and I was like, okay!

What was your plan?
Maureen was going to help me based on what she had learned at WLBC, so I was going into twelve workouts a week and drastically cutting down the calories I was consuming. We had a twelve week goal, and after that planned for me to join the next WLBC. We met every morning at her husband’s KC Sports Club, and she was also there for me anytime I needed support through texts and phone calls. I hadn’t worked out for over six years, but I saw her transformation and accomplishments, and I wanted that too. She also turned me onto the Lose It App and I started logging everything that went into my mouth. That thing has been a HUGE help for me.

So you literally changed your eating and exercise habits overnight. How did that feel?
Oh I was exhausted. And starving. And so sore. It was the biggest adjustment I had ever made, for sure. That first month was crazy and by far the toughest, trying to conform physically and mentally to this new lifestyle. I really think if it wasn’t for Maureen, I wouldn’t have kept at it. I was overwhelmed and didn’t believe I could do it—but she did. She had faith that I had this inside of me, and I truly didn’t believe that about myself then.

How did you cope with your unbelief in yourself--how did you manage your fear of failing?
You know, I didn’t think I could do it when I looked at it like, I have ONE HUNDRED POUNDS to lose. That number is so enormous and overwhelming, and I would say to myself, how is this even possible on top of my already busy schedule with the kids and husband and work? But Maureen really taught me to look at it one day at a time, one pound at a time, or one workout at a time. Some days I would even take it one hour at a time—give myself a pat on the back for lasting an hour and not caving to my junk food cravings. Because I was so used to eating all that crap I was craving it a lot in the beginning. But it was nice to celebrate my little victories, like lasting an hour without eating crap, or lasting an hour in the gym, or whatever. It was so helpful to acknowledge the little things that I was doing right. Because this huge goal that I accomplished was a combination of a lot of little things, a lot of baby steps.

Did you give yourself rewards for certain increments of this process?
Other than feeling good about myself and receiving the pride I was gaining from sticking to my plan, I decided that after I lost the first 20 pounds I would buy myself some cute workout pants to replace my sweats. I bought new workout stuff a lot as a reward because it was getting easier to shop for clothes and it motivated me to keep going on my goals. In the last few years, I rarely ever shopped for clothes. When I made the switch to the plus size section, I would quickly get in and get out, grabbing whatever I grabbed. I had like five outfits in rotation because I was so uncomfortable. Now I love shopping. I have dropped 7 dress sizes; even my feet have shrunk!


"...here's the other one--I hated being in pictures."

You said you had never been 100 pounds overweight—what do you think led you to that point?
Ah…it was just me gradually not taking time for myself and not really caring about what I ate. I used to love working out, in fact, I met my husband (also named Stacey) at 24 Hour Fitness where he worked and I was a client. I used to take all kinds of classes and genuinely enjoyed being active. Ten years ago I was probably in the best shape of my life. But then, you know, the years went by, we got married, we had three children, and I just got comfortable. Plus, when we had our first son Jackson, as a new mom I felt guilty if I would choose to leave him so I could workout, like I didn’t have the right to do that or something. I didn’t want to be away from him. So the pounds just slowly started coming. Then two more kids and the fact that it wasn’t just baby weight I had during my pregnancies--I wasn’t losing the original baby weight so it all kept adding up.  Plus, it just felt easier to do what I was doing. I was eating crap, not moving, not doing anything for myself, and putting everyone else’s needs in front of my own. So it all kept stacking on.

Was your family on board with your decision to set this major goal?
Oh yes. My husband is a cardio kick-boxing teacher at Ringside and has his black belt in Karate, so its helpful that his lifestyle involves fitness. He was also all for our food changes at home, and would do his best to “sneak” his junk food from me so he wouldn’t tempt me. (Like a lot of men, he can splurge whenever he wants and still keep his six pack..not fair!) He has been extremely supportive and loving through all of this, from the weight gain to that first day of working out, to now. The great thing is he has never been pushy or made me feel bad about myself. He knew I was gaining the weight, obviously, and knew that I was unhappy. But he also knows fitness is a personal journey for everyone, and we each have to get the point of choosing to do something different.

Did you ever workout with him?
I’ve been to some of his classes, and he actually came to a Fusion class with me which was fun. But working out with your husband can get a little heated at times, like “don’t tell me to go faster!” “I know what I’m doing!” etc. So we don’t do it regularly. It’s funny because Sadie and Darby push me all the time in classes, and I was literally afraid of Maureen (in a good way) when we first started, but with Stacey, it’s like, I don’t think so!




Kristin Brinkman, Maureen, and Stacey

Two of your kids are too young to know what’s going on, but what about Jackson (8)? Has he noticed any changes in mom?
Actually, he was another huge reason that I knew I needed to make a change. Not that he would ever point it out to me in a negative way, but as he grew older I realized that he was beginning to notice more physical things, like that I was bigger than most of the other moms. That didn’t hurt my feelings for myself so much, but hurt me in the understanding that the choices I was making affected him in a way I hadn’t quite realized. One of my greatest moments in this was watching his face as I passed by him when I was running through the finish line in my first 5K. My husband brought the kids out to watch me do this amazing thing, something I NEVER thought I would do eight months ago. Ever. And I saw the look of awe and pride on Jackson’s face as he watched his mom do this big race with all these people, and it just made me realize how happy I am to not only do this for my health, but to show my kids the importance of living a healthy life. Their eating habits have changed along with mine, and I love teaching them to reach for a fruit or veggie before they go for chips or cookies. I mean, everything in moderation, but they know now to look for the healthy thing first.

Yes, aside from your workouts, your diet also had a major overhaul. What is your nutrition philosophy now?
Along with the WLBC guidelines, I started counting my calories and aimed for 1200-1500 a day. In the beginning it was all I could do to stay under 1500, and I felt starving all the time. I was just so used to eating whenever and whatever I wanted before. There were many nights I would go to bed with my stomach growling. But as with anything, I became accustomed to it and now I feel like I’m eating all the time and still hitting my goal, and feeling satisfied. The biggest change I’ve made regarding my eating has been learning to plan. If I can plan ahead, I feel way more in control and on top of my day, so I can relax and just eat what’s on my list.

What’s a typical day of eating like for you?  
Breakfast: 2 hard-boiled eggs, or plain oatmeal with PB2, or egg whites scrambled with veggies
Snack: string cheese or EAS protein shake
Lunch: turkey wrap on Flat-Out’s wraps with low-cal cheese, or grilled chicken, with a piece of fruit
Snack: almonds, Dt. Coke (although I have been continually encouraged to give up Dt. Coke, I’m like no way! I’ve given up everything else, I’m keeping this!)
Dinner: grilled chicken, pork tenderloin, or fish. Tons of veggies. Noodles or rice for the kids, but I try to avoid them because carbs are a big trigger for me…once I pop I can’t stop, lol.

So you pre-pack your meals and snacks for work?
Yes. I get a little overwhelmed if I have too much freedom with food, so it’s easy, quick, and satisfying for me to have yummy, healthy choices with me. I mean, I still live in the real world and go out to eat at times, but I can always stay on track by planning ahead. If I’m going out to lunch with clients, I check the restaurant’s online menu before I go so I know what I can eat, and then I can relax and enjoy myself. And like last week, we had a pizza party at my son’s school. So I came prepared by ordering their light pizza and knowing exactly the amount I could eat. It’s not like I can bring my little lunch box everywhere. 



"At my 100-pound goal--who needs junkfood?!"

Do you ever have days where you just want to say F* it and pull through McDonald’s?
Well ya, some days are harder than others, but I am happy to say I have not once gone to McDonald’s. Really, I look at whatever I’m craving and I ask myself, is that brownie really worth the two minutes of enjoyment? Did I get up at 4:45am to sweat my butt off and ruin it with this? Most of the time the answer is no way. I have come so far from how I felt less than a year ago. I do not ever, I will never, go back to feeling that way. Sometimes I’m terrified of feeling that way again, and I know myself that if I give in here and there, my old habits are ready and waiting to take over and I’m not having it. It was harder in the beginning, but once I started hitting certain milestones, like running for a full minute, doing regular pushups, etc., it gave me something to lean on and know I was making progress. Those mile-markers were huge for me, and all the new mile-markers I'm hitting continue to keep me motivated in the face of temptation.

What about the mornings when it’s dark outside, you’re tired, you’re sore, and the last thing you want to do is get up and go to the gym. What do you tell yourself?
I listen to the days when my body just says no, but for the most part once I’m up and running I feel so much better, my mind gets cleared, and it helps me start the day in a good mood. But the biggest source of motivation for me has been the amazing women I workout with. Both in the gym and at Fusion I’ve found this community of women dedicated to being healthy, so we all keep each other in check and knowing they’ll be calling me if I don’t show up gets me out of bed on those mornings. We call it our “love fest” of us all in different stages of weight-loss, inspiring each other to keep pushing, motivating each other with our accomplishments, and spending fun, healthy time together. If it was just me doing it alone, I really don’t know if I would have done all this. If I could have. And the way Maureen intimidated me in the beginning, I don’t know if she would have let me!

Speaking of Fusion, when did you start coming to classes?
For the first three months of this journey I was doing my 2-a-day-workouts at the gym, and the plan Maureen and I had was for me to join the next WLBC at Fusion starting in April. However, right about that time I had been diagnosed with stress fractures in both legs, and my orthopedic doc said if I went ahead with the camp I would be back to him in a month getting casts on both of my legs. (Like I said, I went from 0 to 60 and my legs were taking the brunt of the hard work!) I was a woman on a mission, and it was really disappointing that I couldn’t follow the plan I had been set on since February. But I was allowed to do alternatives, like swimming, the elliptical, and modified Fusion classes. I swear if Fusion hadn’t been there for me during that time, I probably would have given up from pure boredom. Fusion kept me having fun, and I was still able to sweat my ass off while I nursed my legs back to health for about two months. Now at least one of my daily workouts is a Fusion class, if not both.

What keeps you coming to Fusion?
Well I’ll tell you, I was very intimidated when I first walked in in my sweats and baggie t-shirt. I saw all these cute little bods in these cute little clothes, and it was hard at first. But I had Maureen with me, and after being introduced to a lot of the instructors and other clients, I was blown away by how welcoming and positive everyone was. People here are all about being healthy, and they are excited to do what they can to help anyone who comes through the doors. Plus the classes are fun, always challenging, and motivating. I had done all types of group exercise and had never experienced anything like it. It took me a second to get used to the constant pace and no-break deal, but now I love it. I told Darby once that I wish I could get to the point of making it through one class without stopping, and she was like “well I hope not because then you won’t want to come here anymore!”

Darby is full of inspiration. How has she helped you through the journey?
She is just such an amazing person, so dedicated to what she does. She (and the other instructors) are always in a good mood, ready to have fun and make us sweat like maniacs, so we just naturally emulate the excitement as students. I was hitting a plateau near the end of my weight loss when I had like ten more pounds to go, and Darby really helped me stay positive. She told me if I get stressed out and negative about the struggle, my body will internalize it and make it even harder. She helped me play with my daily calorie count and workout intensity levels to kind of trick my body into shedding those last ten pounds. And it worked!

Aside from the weight-loss, what happened to your high blood pressure and other health problems you faced just eight months ago?
They have completely disappeared! I have absolutely NONE of the dangerous levels I had before. My doctor is so happy with me. I know it sounds cliché but before, I was living to eat, and I truly am eating to live now. Such a drastic difference, but it is definitely mirrored in the changes I’ve seen and felt in my body.

"My 'after' pic, in my HARD EARNED reward--my Lulu outfit :)"

So besides your major physical health improvements, what has changed about your mental health?
In general I just feel so much happier. Not only because I lost weight or I look different now, but I feel different. I have energy, inspiration, goals. One of the big things I’ve noticed about myself is that I’m now much more assertive with my feelings and what I want to accomplish. My confidence has grown. I truly don’t even recognize myself back then. My body was telling me I needed to change, and I feel proud that I listened to it. I feel forever grateful to Maureen for pushing me because I would probably still be the same had she not taken me under her wing and believed in me.

Now that you have turned the tables in a way, you are able to offer your guidance to others the way Maureen helped you. What would you say to a woman in similar shoes to yours 8 months ago?
First of all, I would say call me, I will meet you for a workout. I would tell her it’s completely possible to reach your goals even though it feels so overwhelming. You’re talking about making life-changing habits out of what once was foreign--it’s scary--but if you have a support system and you take it one day at a time, even one minute at a time, you can really do anything. You have to make your life about taking care of you. Making time for yourself. Putting fitness and nutrition at the top of your priority list, and making your health non-negotiable. And remember it’s all a series of baby steps. Don’t get discouraged in thinking you have to make this drastic leap—you can look back when it’s all over to see the distance you’ve covered, but you have got to focus now on putting one foot in front of the other.

In all the Spotlights, I like to ask women about how they retain their confidence in a culture consumed with seeking physical perfection. You have an especially interesting view because you have recently gone through a major change, inside and out—how do you feel about positive self-esteem?
I think there is a huge amount of competition out there, but a ton of it is coming from within ourselves! So that’s half the battle, realizing the way you talk to yourself and compare yourself with others. I compare myself with her, she compares herself to me—on our outfits, the cars we drive, the jobs we have. I have to decide who the best ME is, and then be comfortable with that. You can always strive to want more. Be skinnier, make more money, be the best mom. But you will drive yourself crazy, because there’s always going to be someone more something than you. It’s comparing apples to oranges. You just have to find where you are most confident and comfortable, and accept it and ROCK IT.

After this major accomplishment, do you think you’ll stay on the same fitness and nutrition regime?
Well, I still have about 20 pounds I want to lose, and honestly, I enjoy the way I workout and eat now. It was a complete lifestyle change, so there’s no going back to where I was. Will I continue to workout 12 times a week? Ya,  probably somewhere between 8 and 12. Where I’m at right now is working really well for me—I have more energy and am really enjoying it more than anything. Once I get to my final goal I’m willing to tailor it down a little bit. But this is me now, it's not like well I've reached this goal now back to what I was doing. No--what I was doing did not work so I changed my entire lifestyle. This is my lifestyle now. I love it!

The Fun 5

Favorite Restaurant: MNS Grill--love their salmon. Also a big fan of Mr. Gyros and their grilled chicken plate.

Favorite place to drink glass of wine: I’m not a big drinker, but I will say my absolute fave place for a cup of coffee is Starbucks—I’m a total junkie. But, rather than what I used to get every single day (a total calorie bomb), I now allow myself one healthier drink per week so it’s still my little treat. (On our Starbucks date Stacey stayed impressively dedicated, sipping on an ice water, completely at ease surrounded by all the other people drinking their treats.) 

Inspiring book: Honestly, I have been looking to my friends for inspiration on this journey. Maureen, of course, the girls at Fusion, and the WLBC’ers. Shawna, the original WLBC'er, has been behind me this whole time, and without her none of this ever would have happened, from me to Maureen to all the other women. What she did with her own weight loss journey, and now spreading the love and belief to all of us is truly amazing. She genuinely wants people to be healthy and be the best versions of themselves--she is a huge inspiration to me. Allison Arbuckle Taylor started WLBC about two weeks before me, so watching her and her 60-pound loss has always kept me pushing harder too. I could go on and on...it's a huge love fest, like I said!

Beauty advice you like: (Laughing) I grew up in a house with four brothers, so you can pretty much mark this on the calendar that I’m wearing makeup. But the thing that comes to mind is drinking lots of water. I keep a jug at my desk and fill it up continually throughout the day…it helps with bloating, food choices, and just a healthy look overall.

I find my confidence in…: Getting stronger every day.



Stacey (second from right) and the other proud, dedicated WLBC'ers after one of their hard-core workouts this week.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amp Camp On Fire!

It's the end of another 8-week Amp Camp and you guessed it, the pounds are continuing to melt away! Congrats to all the women who worked hard to change their eating, exercise, and mental habits to not only see the benefits on the outside, but to clean and strengthen their internal selves as well. Says their dedicated, fit, and WLBC graduate herself, trainer Shawna Wright, "you all came here with different goals but are each leaving here stronger, healthier, and Amped up! Way to work hard, focus, motivate, and inspire." October 14th marks the beginning of another Amp Camp journey...make it yours by signing up today!

MOLLY

Molly lost a total of 10 pounds, 2.5 inches from her hips, 3.5 inches from her waist, and 3 inches from her chest. Her situps, pushups and speed all improved, and she took control of her eating and fitness in the midst of a wild schedule, all because she was committed and taking charge of her self! Way to go Molly!

JENNI

Jenni came here fit and ready to Amp it up a notch for her wedding. She lost 1.3 pounds, 1.25 inches from her hips, 1 inch from her waist and 1 inch from her chest. Her one-minute situps and pushups improved, as well as her speed. Here comes the bride...looking beautiful as ever!

LAUREN

Lauren lost 3 pounds, 1.5 inches from her hips, 2 inches from her waist, and 3.5 inches from her chest. She tacked on 10 to both her situps and pushups in a minute, and ran her mile faster too. She enjoyed family workouts as well as her training, and even kept on top of her nutrition and fitness while on a beach vacay..way to commit Lauren!

JILL

With a new baby at home, Jill got after it and lost 8.1 pounds, 2 inches from her hips, 2 inches from her waist, and 2 inches from her chest. Whew! Not only does she look great, but with renewed energy and an Amped up attitude she feels great too. Great job Jill!

ALLISON

Allison joined Amp Camp after graduating from WLBC to continue on her fitness goals and has blown us away with her dedication and achievements. In a total of 20 weeks, she has lost:
61.8lbs (51 WLBC/10.8 in Amp)
8.5 inches from her hips (6.5/2)
9.5 inches from her waist (8.5/.5)
6.5 inches from her chest (6/.5)
Improved her pushups from 4 on toes to 44 on toes!
Improved her sit-ups from 24 to 35
1 mile run went from 11:22 to 7:51!!!!!!!
Allison recently ran a 10K in 52:05, which is incredible, and is training for a half marathon in a few weeks. She's inspired those close to her and even people she's never met as they witness her journey in the Fusion studios and on the blog. In addition to the motivation she brings out in other Campers, Shawna also notes Allison's extremely kind and caring personality and feels lucky to have her in the programs. Way to reach your goals and take charge of your health, congratulations!

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Worried about the pounds sneaking up on you during the coming Holiday festivities? Get a head start in our new session of Amp Camp beginning October 14th. With the training, support, and fun you'll have with Shawna, those sneaky 5 pounds won't stand a chance.

www.fusionfitness.com  shawnawright2002@yahoo.com for more info

 

"Arriving at one goal is the starting point to another" --Shawna

 

Weight Loss Boot Camp On Fire!

The results for our fourth session of Weight Loss Boot Camp are in, and you guessed it, they are amazing! Through the hard work and dedication of 18 women and their instructors, over 345 pounds were shed in just 12 weeks. Read a few of their stories to see what fitness and nutrition has done for them, and can do for you!

Angie

Angie lost 28.5 pounds, 3.5 inches from her hips, 7.5 inches from her waist, and 4.5 inches from her chest. She improved her pushups from 17 in a minute to 45 (30 on her toes)! Here's the Super Woman part: not only did Angie improve her mile run by 2:46 to get an 8:45 time, BUT she did it right after Switch Up, AND she had done Bikini Boot Camp that morning! Incredible! "I was so impressed with your personal best 5K time DURING a triathlon! You are an incredible athlete and your competitive side greatly helped you motivate yourself and those around you. I loved working with you, and congrats on your success!" says Shawna.

Devra

Devra lost 27.7 pounds, dropped 6 inches from her waist, 6 inches from her hips, and 3.5 from her chest. Way to go girl! She tacked on 17 pushups to her minute total, and improved her mile run. Shawna loved her encouragement in the support group, saying "you guys are all helping each other and motivating others as well, stay strong with your early morning workouts and congrats, you look amazing!"

Julana

Julana was encouraged to attend by her close friend and fellow Fusionista Instructor Pam, and now attends regularly with her college-aged daughters. "They'd be so proud to see how fast you sprint!" says Shawa. She lost 18.6 pounds, and cut 2.5 inches from her hips, 3.5 inches from her waist, and 4.5 inches from her chest.
Shawna notes, "You were a positive, motivating force within our group, and you changed your diet, habits, and view on fitness classes to make the changes to your body, inside and out. Congratulations on your success!"

Karen

Karen lost 25 pounds, 5.5 inches from her hips, 6 inches from her waist, and 3.5 inches from her chest. In the 12 weeks she improved her situps as well as her pushups, from 17 in a minute to 44 (with 30 on her toes)!! Wow! Shawna says, "Way to go Karen, you look great and are encouraged to keep going strong. You earned all the benefits you now see!"

Sammy

Sammy lost 25.1 pounds, 3 inches from her hips, 4.5 from her waist, and 2.5 from her chest. She increased her pushups from 24 to 45!! Great! "Thanks for all your help, advice, coaching, and support," says Sammy, "I couldn't have made it without you and Regan there through it all." Shawna says her athletic background helped her drive to always go harder and she was a great leader by example. "I just got an email from her saying how healthy Sammy still feels," says Shawna, "and that even on vacation she kept up her new way of living and feels great! Congrats girl!"

Dianne

Dianne just happened to be the employee to unlock the room at All American Indoor Sports when Darby and Shawna were looking for a place to hold WLBC. She had never heard of Fusion, but thought, hey I should sign up for this program. Little did she know 12 weeks later she would lose 23.9 pounds, 6.5 inches from her hips, 3.5 inches from her waist, and 4.5 inches from her chest, 2.5 from her arm and 3.25 from her thigh. Wow! She went from 25 to 44 pushups and 28 to 35 situps! "She worked hard, stayed strong, and even had a full-on Facebook friend group following and supporting her weight-loss journey. You even have the six-pack abs to prove it! You are a great competitor and and an inspiration," says Shawna.

"Arriving at one goal is the starting point to another."

 

If you are inspired by these results (and who isn't?), give a high five to these women as you see them in the halls of Fusion.

Want to give it a go yourself?

Our next WLBC starts this Sunday, August 26th. Your proud and smiling face can be featured here in three months if you're ready! Check out our homepage for more info, or email Shawna at shawnawright2002@yahoo.com

AmpCamp Is At It Again!

Another session of our 8-week AmpCamp has concluded with amazing results for these lovely ladies! Check out their stories for inspiration to get your groove on!

Mari

You may know Mari from the new baby she totes around on her little hips, so the next time you see her pat her on her back for her awesome results!
She lost 5.4 pounds and shaved off 2 inches from her hips, 1 inch from her waist and 1.5 inches from her bust. She increased her pushups from 40 to 50 in one minute, doing 40 on her toes! She also increased her situps by 8 to total 45 in a minute. Mari ran a half marathon six weeks into Amp Camp with 9.2 minute miles, which was a personal best and without distance training. Proof that cross-training can keep you in amazing distance shape.
Shawna adds, "more impressive than all of that was your incredible speed and ability to challenge yourself and others around you. Your drive and competitiveness was awesome and you became the "gal to beat"! I really enjoyed having you in this session. You inspired others and gave it your all! My favorite part is how you just popped in on a half marathon...and killed it!"

Kerri

Kerri is another regular at Fusion, and especially loves the differences she feels in her arms and tummy. She lost 9 pounds, 1 inch from her hips, 1 inch from her waist, and 2 inches from her bust. She improved her situps and pushups, now doing 40 pushups in one minute with 20 of them on her toes! Way to go Kerri!
Shawna is proud of her accomplishments and loved having her in this session. She says, "you look great and are in awesome shape..even with battling your injury! Way to make it happen! Major kudos for pushing yourself and staying on top of your diet. Nice job!"

Jennifer

Jennifer says, "I accomplished more in 8 weeks with AmpCamp than I did in 8 months on my own! Three kids under 5 and a demanding full-time job doesn't leave much "me" time...but through AmpCamp I got a much-needed reminder on what I can accomplish in a one hour workout and a boost of motivation for healthy eating. Shawna was amazing and I couldn't have done it without her!"

Jennifer lost 9 pounds, 1 inch from her waist, 2 inches from her hips, and 1 inch from her bust. Her situps and pushups improved, and she knocked 1:08 off of her mile run!

Shawna said she loved her competitive side and is proud of her awesome results. "You worked hard and pushed yourself. Congratulations!"

Dani

Dani was the leader in weight-loss by losing 14.6 pounds and burned off 2.5 inches from her hips, 2.5 inches from her waist, and 2 inches from her bust. She added 10 situps and pushups, totaling 34 situps and 35 pushups in a minute.
Shawna says, "you look amazing and are in great shape! You were committed and successful and should be proud. Congrats!"

Rebecca

Rebecca started with the Weight Loss Boot Camp and continued into the AmpCamp to further her results. In the total of 20 weeks, she lost an amazing 35.8 pounds, 7 inches from her waist, 8.5 inches from her hips, and 6 inches from her chest. She improved her pushups to 40 on her toes in one minute!
Shawna says, "my favorite part about your results is that you took a long European vacation during Amp Camp, and still managed to stay on track and lose weight. Big congratulations for making a true lifestyle change and forming habits that will continue into the future. I have loved getting to know you; way to make it happen and find your health!"

If you want to give AmpCamp a go, checkout the "bootcamp" tab under the classes tab on our homepage, or contact Shawna at shawnawright@yahoo.com. The 8-week session offers more than just a great workout. You also get accountability, nutrition plans, and the joy of working hard with other women to accomplish your goals together!

Amazing Results for our Weight Loss Boot Camp!

Our Weight Loss Boot Camp has ended with dramatic results once again! Thanks to the dedication of the instructors and the 13 women who worked their buns off (literally), a total of over 224 pounds were shed in just 12 weeks!! Not only did they "lose," but they also gained major athletic ability as measured by running a mile and how many pushups (on toes) could be completed at a time from Week 1 compared to Week 12! Check out their results here, and if you are inspired, our next WLBC starts May 5th. This could be you, too!!!

Congratulations to KARI!

Kari lost 32 pounds, 5 inches from her hips, 7 inches from her waist, and 4 inches from her chest. She also cut her 1-mile time by 4:40 and increased her pushups from 2 to 25!! Way to go! Shawna gives her a pat on the back for being "focused and working hard during every workout."

Congratulations to REBECCA!

Rebecca lost 29.6 pounds, 6 inches from her hips, 7.5 inches from her waist, and 6 inches from her chest. She took 5:11 off of her mile, and increased her pushups from 7 to 34!! Wow! Shawna also said her "situps improved and her heart rate lowered..overall success! She should be very proud!"

Congratulations to ALLISON!

Allison lost 51 pounds, 6.5 inches from her hips, 8.5 inches from her waist, and 6 inches from her chest. She dropped 2:40 off her mile-run, and increased her pushups from 4 to a whopping 40! Her situps increased and her heart rate lowered. Shawna says her "success is obvious and the hard work and discipline paid off! Plus I loved seeing her in the lead at AmpCamp!"

Congratulations to TRACY!

Tracy lost 10 pounds, 2.5 inches from her hips, 2 inches from her waist, and 2 inches from her chest. She cut 2:19 from her mile-run and improved her half-marathon time! She also increased her pushups to 35! Shawna is proud of Tracy for "finding her fittest self; she looks great and her running is impressive!"

Congratulations to SUSAN!

Susan lost 15.4 pounds, 4 inches from her hips, 1 inch from her waist, and 2 inches from her chest. Her situps and pushups improved, and her heart rate lowered! Yay!! Shawna says "her results are incredible and she should be proud; there is no better proof for her success than the phenomenal shape she is in!"

To read more about Shawna and her journey to becoming a Fusion instructor, check out her interview on this blog called Instructor Spotlight: Shawna Wright.

For more info on the next WLBC that begins May 5th, go to Fusion's homepage and click the link to read more and sign up!!

Instructor Spotlight: Shawna Wright

Fusion's Weight Loss Bootcamps and AmpCamps have been growing in popularity ever since Shawna Wright began leading them in January 2011. We all see the amazing results and pictures posted right here on the blog every couple months, but I wanted to get a more in depth look at Shawna's history and see where her genuine love of what she does comes from.

Shawna grew up here in KC "super active" as she describes it, playing at least one sport every season. The idea of focusing on nutrition and burning calories was not high on her priority list, like most teenagers, especially because her level of activity kept her fit. However, when the college years came, she was shocked when what most dub the "freshman fifteen" hit her and just kept coming. "I swear I woke up one day with 40 extra pounds!" she says. Basketball was still a big part of her life, but as many of us have experienced, metabolism begins to slow at that age and we don't want to accept that we can't still eat like 16-year-olds. After college Shawna got married and had her three kids: Tommy, now 7, Meredith, 6, and Aggie, 2. "After my third baby I weighed more than ever and felt exhausted and overwhelmed at the thought of losing weight and working out," she says.

As fate would have it Shawna's friends, and owners of Fusion Darby and Shandi, were at that time looking for a client to train for an upcoming weight loss contest through Kansas City Fitness Magazine. Darby said they immediately thought of Shawna, knowing that throughout the years she was athletic and would have the stamina and motivation to do well. "When they asked me if I wanted to be their contestant, they knew I wasn't happy with my weight. I instantly knew I would do it...and instantly wanted to puke knowing what was in store for me!"


She spent the next three months sweating her way through 2-hour daily workouts led by "the best in the biz", a nutrition overhaul, and pure exhaustion that she says was worth every minute. She lost an amazing 57 pounds to win the contest. Just twelve weeks earlier she had been at a complete loss as to how she could find the motivation to start day one, and now she was gracing the cover of a fitness magazine. "People know that Darby can kick butt in class and knows her stuff on all things fitness and health. But the amazing thing about her is that she does all of this because she loves it; she really cares about improving people's lives and her success is a direct reflection on her passion and effort." Shawna was so grateful to the people that helped her and inspired by her own results that she began creating workouts for friends and neighbors. Darby kept nudging her to lead a similar bootcamp at Fusion, but "I never took her serious," says Shawna. "The instructors are the best, they all have killer bodies, and I simply did not have the confidence to even consider instructing classes full of incredibly fit women. I had accomplished a lot, but in my opinion, not the flawless Fusion bodies I looked up to for motivation."

Fate was at it again when her close friend Maureen, who had just had her third baby, came to Shawna with a friendly demand. "'I want you to do everything for me that they did for you' she told me, and I knew she was at the exact same point as I was earlier, saying she was DONE being miserable." The thought of helping Maureen reach similar goals was motivation to overcome her fears, so she and Darby put together a plan and enlisted two other women who had heard Shawna's story. The first Weight Loss Bootcamp was a success with the three women losing a combined 115 pounds. Maureen was so enlightened by her 45-pound loss she wanted to spread the love too and became Shawna's bootcamp assistant. In addition, her husband had just opened the Kansas City Sports Club. The enormous infield and access to cardio equipment became a perfect place to run the high-calorie-burning workouts.

Maureen and Shawna before and after. "Sure we now had a lot more fun getting dressed up and going out, but it was so much more than that," says Shawna.

Soon she was collaborating with Darby again to create the current bootcamp regime and led her second Bootcamp of 18 women, who after 12 weeks lost a total of 245 pounds. The successes kept coming and her confidence as an instructor and motivator grew as she helped women lose weight and gain fitness ability. But the most important thing to her was watching their confidence grow. "There is something magical that happens during these sessions," she says, "and it's the most incredible, positive vibe."

The second installment of the growing program, AmpCamp, was designed shortly thereafter as an option for the Bootcamp graduates to continue on with their fitness goals and offer accountability. While it did prove successful for these clients, it "really hit it's stride with those that needed a good bump in their current regime. Most participants are looking to lose about 10 pounds and become stronger, leaner athletes," she says. "I was shocked at how much certain workouts increased my distance running speed, and we have had the same results with our clients. Proof that Fusion's Shock your Body works. I've learned a lot from my clients in both the Bootcamps and AmpCamps, and together we've figured out how to create an environment for incredible success. I'm so thankful for the opportunity Darby gave me to find my health, and in turn get to help others. I love every minute of my job." 

What is it about fitness that keeps you working with women and achieving such positive results?
Fitness is so important to me because of how it makes you feel. Borrowing from Sadie, another awesome instructor here, 'you never regret working out, but you usually regret skipping it.' It clears my mind and body and leaves me feeling powerful. Plus, when you don't feel good about yourself, and you don't have any energy, you start to lose who you are. It affects everyone around you. I have come so far; in the beginning I was so worried that I wouldn't be inspiring or motivating to my clients since I am not the smallest or leanest of the "Fusionistas." But as my confidence grew, I began to realize that my past struggles, and current struggles, are really the key to helping others. It's tough to put yourself out there, but it has been so important for me and I love seeing these women work so hard for what they want.

Aside from the physical training you also help with nutrition. America's rising obesity rate confirms that millions of people struggle with food; did you have similar battles?
I consider myself lucky to have found something that worked for me and wish that upon everyone. The rising obesity rate does make me sad, because I know the difference in a person's quality of life is directly affected by the way they feel. Obesity is way beyond eating too much. It involves habits, emotions, lifestyle, and so much more. I urge anyone and everyone struggling with their weight to get help. Find a friend, program or plan that works for you...and do it. 12 weeks from now, you will be happy you started today.

What's one type of food or drink that is completely off limits to you?
Definitely soda. Drinking that many calories and huge amounts of sugar is just completely not worth it to me. It makes me cringe when people drink it. I am literally embarrassed when I have to buy it at the store (once in a blue moon for guests.) I truly HATE the stuff!

What's a healthy snack that you love?
My favorite would be grapefruit..so delish and refreshing. I also have recently been adding a green smoothie in the afternoon; it's a great way to get in gobs of spinach without sitting down to a salad. Have you heard of PB2? It's interesting stuff and has been sneaking into my snacks. It's growing on me!

Any splurge foods that you just can't live without?
That would be pizza. Which actually works because when I'm craving it I can usually find or create a healhy-ish version that hits the spot. But if you are asking me what food can break me down, it's definitely sugary sweets. Old habits slip back on occasion and for me sugar is like crack. One jelly bean can trigger a day of sugar cravings, so it's way better for me just to avoid it.

So if you do have the occasional slip-up, how do you deal?
If--no--when I slip up, I attempt to counteract it with an additional workout. You can't take it back, and even if I don't burn as many calories as I consumed, working out will usually stop me from "slipping up" for the rest of day or entire weekend! We all do it on occasion, but the thing is to not just say, 'oh well, the rest of today/the weekend/this week is shot so I may as well just keep splurging.' You can start fresh on Monday, but you can also start fresh right now.

Do you follow any particular nutritionists or fitness gurus?
I do like to check into Bethenny Frankel, Jillian, Jackie Warner, and any other successful celebrity trainer/or nutritionist for fun! I am also inspired by a new blog called Share It Fitness. Love it! I actually had to break up with all sorts of food blogs and food magazines. I don't bake anymore, and that stinking Pinterest...did I just see a peanut butter cup pie on the fitness page?! I simply cannot look at it!

The Fun Five

Favorite Restaurant: Capitol Grill and the amazing Stoli Doli
Inspiring Book: I hate to admit that this once avid reader doesn't read much anymore. That is one of the few good, enjoyable habits that got bumped as the alarm started going off earlier due to my schedule. But I will share an inspiring movie: Hoosiers. It pumps me up and brings a tear to my eye every time I hear that song and cheer Hickory to the Championship! But I am way more likely to cry during an Olympic ceremony than a sappy chick flick or dog dies movie.
Best Place to Drink a Glass of Wine: I'm not a wine fan, but for the best, ice cold beer I cannot deny my family's own restaurant, Sutera's.
Beauty Advice I'd Like to Pass On: Keep it simple, and be (or become) happy!
I Find My Confidence In...: My kids and husband. At this point in our life the kids want to spend every minute with us and think I can do anything. I know this will change, but for now I try to appreciate it. My husband lets me be me, and supports me regardless. My mom is also, and has always been, a major confidence builder! She will brag about us even when we don't deserve it. Gotta love that!


Want to check out a camp? The new AmpCamp starts April 22 and Weight Loss Bootcamp begins May 6. For more information, click the News and Events tab, or contact Shawna at 816-835-3451 or shawnawright2002@yahoo.com.

AmpCamp session 2 just finished up...and 10 ladies lost over 75lbs, an average of 2inches from their waist and most can boast a greatly increased level of fitness and overall speed!  Amp combines healthy diet, intense cardio workouts, Fusion core strength and ACCOUNTABILITY!  Our results are amazing and everyone is happy!

Congratulations to Kali!  In the 8 weeks of AmpCamp, Kali dropped 11.2lbs, 3 inches from her hips, 3.5 from her bust and 2 inches from her chest.  She improved the number of pushups completed in 1 minute and lower her resting and active heartrates.  Kali finished strong with a noticable difference in her speed and cardio capacity. 

Her timed 1 mile run went from 8:42-7:41!!!  WOW! 

Way to Amp it up and take control of your health!

Amp it up, look & feel great!

Meet Sherry...before and after 8 weeks of AmpCamp!

Sherry joined AmpCamp as a distance runner looking to up her game and improve her diet...

here is what she accomplished in 8 weeks:

She lost 11.2 lbs

She dropped 2.5in from her hips, 3.5in from her waist and 2in from her chest

She improved her eating habits, switched up her workouts and feels amazing!

Sherry started AmpCamp already able to run 1 mile in 8:42min...within 8 weeks, she imporoved that time to 7:15!!!  She is one fast girl!!!

Congratulations to Sherry and all of the other AmpCampers

for a successful 8 weeks of health and fitness!

Fusion's Inaugural Weight Loss Bootcamp's Biggest Loser!

12 weeks of weight loss bootcamp is complete! Our biggest loser, Molly lost 48 pounds, 9.5 inches off her hips, 9.25 inches off her waist and 8 inches off her bust. Her hard work and commitment resulted more than the numbers. She never gave up. She worked hard during drills, sprints, bleachers, treadmill workouts and classes at Fusion. Molly took control of her health, and rocked it! Congratulations! The following is Molly's story! Enjoy and be inspired.

Last year I saw Shawna working out during the fitness challenge and followed her progress through the updates Fusion sent. I remember thinking that I wished I could have an opportunity like that. And this summer I did. As soon as I got the email, I knew this was my opportunity. Growing up and into my adult life, I’ve always been overweight. It became something I accepted about myself. I’ve been happy and successful in many ways during my life, but this was one area in which I never had control. I played sports and was active growing up and have exercised through the years, but never with the discipline to make a difference. The turning point for me was the realization that I was being irresponsible with my health. I have a poor family history with heart disease, high cholesterol – you name it. I decided I wanted to take an active role against it. I’ve made great progress during this program and I am nearing a weight I don’t remember seeing in my adult life. But what I’m most proud of is that my annual physical blood work returned excellent results. They were perfect, which proved this wasn’t just an external change, it really had an impact on my overall health. I’ve still got more to lose, but I am on my way. I am armed with the tools and motivation to succeed. And thanks to Shawna, Darby and this great group of women – I was able to push myself further than I thought I was able. This has been a life changing experience and I am grateful for it!

Molly continues to work it at Fusion Amp Camp-a maintenance program!

Weight Loss Bootcamp -Just Can't Get Enough!

Weight loss bootcamp’s second biggest loser, Regan lost 27 pounds, 4 inches off her bust, & 3.5 inches off her hips and waist. Regan worked hard and pushed herself more each day. She loves her new found endurance so much, she recently did a bootcamp cardio workout, switch up, AND dirty30...all before noon! Way to go Regan! We are so proud of you for taking control and rocking it!

Here is Regan's story:

Growing up I was an active kid and teenager. In college I exercised and walked KU's campus daily. I never had to worry about calories or diet. It was easy to be thin and fit. However, after college while working at a desk job, I put on about 25 pounds. I was unhappy and out of shape. When I got engaged in 2000 I was able to shed the extra pounds through diet and exercise. Unfortunately after the wedding the pounds crept on again. In 2006 we had our first daughter, 21 months later our second. At this point I was heavier than ever and struggling to get to a healthy and comfortable weight. I would work out but couldn't get a handle on my diet. Or I would eat well but not exercise. A few years ago while working out at Sylvester Powell I started seeing Shawna being trained by Darby and Shandi who I knew from Fusion. After watching the "crazy training sessions" for a few weeks I noticed a big difference in Shawna. She didn't just look thinner, she was also stronger and more confident. I would watch as I ran on the treadmill thinking "I wish someone would take me aside and train me like that. I wish I could do that". I thought that over and over well after Shawna's challenge was complete. This summer I ran into Shawna at the pool (divine intervention). I told her if she ever wanted to do a training group I'd be interested. A few weeks later the notice was posted about the bootcamp. Even though I wanted to do it more than anything I almost didn't do it. Honestly I thought, "No way. I'm not cut out for it." After lots of soul searching I made the commitment. 

I was terrified. Afraid of the hunger and the pain of the exercise. Terrified I'd quit. Over the past 10 years I've started a hundred diets and exercise programs and after a few weeks I usually quit. Despite all my fears and doubts about myself I completed the program. I lost 27 pounds in 12 weeks. While looking good in a pair of jeans is nice I've gained so much more! I am more fit than I've ever been. I have my confidence back. I have a piece of me back. It has been a total makeover both physically and emotionally. 

It was a "bucket list" experience.

Inaugural Weight Loss Bootcamp Results!

The inaugural weight loss bootcamp ended a few months ago  . 14 women lost over 275 pounds in 12 weeks! They worked hard and ate to fuel. They not only lost weight, they became true athletes...ready to tackle any workout! Congratulations! You ladies were amazing...true inspiration!

Brook lost 13.5% body weight, 4.5 inches off her hips, 5 inches off her waist and 4 inches off her bust during her participation in the 12 week weightloss bootcamp. Way to go Brook! Brook is a true inspiration to anyone that thinks they do not have time! She works a full time job, has twin daughters, and still managed two get in 2 workouts a day most days. Her dedication and motivation made her a key player in the group support system! Her results are proof! Congratulations Brook! Your pictures are better than dessert!

Here is her story:

My weight loss journey started back in 2001. Before that I was always pretty heavy--heavy kid, heavy teen, got heavier as I went through college and law school. In January 2001, I went to my best friend's wedding and when the pictures came back I couldn't even believe how big I was. In 2001, it took me 10 months to go from 215 pounds (I'm 5'4" tall) to 145 pounds with just exercise and diet (and a 25 year old body). Prior to 2001, I did not really exercise on a regular basis and every meal consisted of processed carbs (cereal, bread, pasta, etc.). From January to September in 2001 I got that weight off and I felt amazing. Slowly the weight crept back on (law school, a big time Chicago law job, then I had twins in 2006). When I had the twins in 2006 my weight (and crazy life) really made the struggle with my weight even harder. (Funny note: I weighed 215lbs when I was 39 weeks pregnant with twins in 2006--the same weight I had been at the beginning of 2001!!!) This year was kind of my 10th anniversary opportunity to do what I had done in 2001. But for the first six months of this year I struggled to figure out how to do this and it wasn't until I heard about this boot camp that I realized that this was my big break. And now I can't even tell you how strong and healthy and empowered I feel.

I've always known that I've had it in me to do this, but without this program I just couldn't figure out how to do it. Thanks to Shawna and Darby and to the motivation that I have found in this group of amazing women, I'm now on a path that is exciting and supportive and rewarding (and crazy hard and sometimes scary). But in just 12 weeks, I've been amazed by the results and have lost almost 25 pounds. I can't thank you all enough for how this has changed me.

As Shawna would say, "Go hard, ladies, go hard!"