Personal Fitness Stories
Read about the personal fitness stories from our members below.
Wellness Center Member
The journey for Betsy Aust began when she was staring at 200 pounds on the scale. With a 5’4” frame, episodic swelling in legs and feet, taking meds for restless leg syndrome, poor sleep, horrible energy, poor concentration, “and I won’t even describe the disasters in Macy’s dressing room,” she says she knows how she got there: “By doing nothing.”
“On that scale and looking in the mirror, I experienced a host of emotions – anger, fear and sadness. Somewhere from way down inside, I got in touch with me, the ‘me’ that knew I could change. I had access to all the resources and information I needed to change my health, my weight and my life. I just wasn’t using any of the resources available. And so I decided.”
She worked with Kathy Lach, a personal trainer at The Wellness Center, and she kept a food diary. “Kathy taught me how to exercise and why to choose one exercise over the other. She knew what my body, my muscles could do – and I let go and trusted her.”
“For years, I had looked over at the ‘other side’ of the gym and believed that I would never be comfortable using that equipment. Now, I am confident and competent in the ‘weight room.’
“I went from wearing a size 1X to a size 10. The scale reads 42 pounds less. I have kept the weight off, I still wear the same size pants and still have the same fitness level I had a year ago. I have achieved change!”
“My watch now spins around my wrist. I choose to not have the band adjusted as a reminder to myself where I was, how I got to where I am today, and my promise to myself that I will not go back.”
Congratulations, Betsy!
Wellness Center Member
"My journey began with The Wellness Center in October 2007. I have struggled with weight issues since childhood. I tried multiple diet plans and always fell into the lose some and gain more back cycle. I never felt comfortable working out at a gym but always dreamed of the day to be fit.
"In December of 2006, my dad had a heart attack and bypass surgery. At that point, I no longer wanted to continue on my unhealthy path and I was finally fed up with the way I had been feeling. So after much consideration, I called The Wellness Center and spoke with Curtis Williams about obtaining the help of a personal trainer.
"As soon as I walked into the Wellness Center everyone was so welcoming and kind. Curtis was so upbeat and optimistic about obtaining my new fitness goals and he paired me with Daryl Madison, personal trainer to begin training sessions. Daryl is a fantastic trainer, he listened to my initial goals and concerns and built a work out plan that best suited me for my beginner fitness level. We worked on strength and cardio training and I changed my diet to incorporate more whole grains, low fat, low carbohydrate options. Over that next year, I was able to lose 80 pounds and gain a ton of confidence! Daryl continues to encourage me and train me to keep on track to this day.
"I’ve met a lot of staff members and friends through The Wellness Center where we challenge each other with new goals and training routines. I recently was able to run the Peachtree Road Race this year – my first 10K! It is exciting to be connected with The Wellness Center, where each and every team member gives their very best to ensure a healthier tomorrow"
Wellness Center Member
"When I first arrived at The Wellness Center, I didn’t know what to expect. I had a range of mixed emotions, but mainly excitement and apprehension because I had not had good experiences at other facilities that masqueraded as fitness centers. These other unpleasant event involved signing long-term contracts that usually lasted longer than my participation.
"At The Wellness Center, there are no contracts to sign and they are open seven days a week, so there is really no excuse for anyone to say, “I don’t have the time.” The hours are long enough to accommodate any schedule. It’s really a very friendly atmosphere and I have met so many people here.
"The courteous and friendly staff is waiting for you to bring your body through the door, whether young, middle-aged, senior citizens or senior plus. Whatever your age, there is something here or someone here to help get your body in shape. The beautiful thing about The Wellness Center is that you can exercise at your leisure and not have to worry about running out to feed a parking meter. It’s all taken care of when you have your parking ticket stamped at the front desk. I was all out of excuses so I joined! Once here, I began to relax and look around. I saw everyone else in The Wellness Center had similar goals: mainly, to get control of our weight and get our bodies in better shape than they were in when we first walked into the facility.
"I am especially appreciative of Curtis Williams, personal trainer, for his hard work, patience, dedication and constant tips to help me in my quest to lose and then maintain my weight. In many instances, this was a painful journey for both of us: painful to me because it hurt and painful to Curtis because sometimes I simply couldn’t get it. Curtis has also spent countless hours showing me how to properly use various hand weights and machines. This information was invaluable because it minimized my risk for injury."
Wellness Center Member
“(Give me) ice cream for my soul but The Wellness Center and Curtis Williams for my body!
"Working with professional trainer Curtis Williams to improve and strengthen my back is the best thing I’ve done for my health. I can now sit through a movie, ride in a car for long distances and enjoy a more active lifestyle. Curtis leads and guides you in a smart program he personably designs for your goals or physical problems. You reach levels you never expect from yourself. The man truly knows his stuff.
"I also appreciate the fun, friendly atmosphere provided by the entire staff. It’s like walking into Cheer’s, where everybody knows your name.”