Encouraging Health

Before I get to today’s post, just wanted to let you know my cross-country move went well and I’m all settled in! Now, onto today’s story!

Boot camp helps man lose 120 pounds

Here’s a quite inspiritational story!

Two years ago, Tim Lenczowski dreaded walking from the parking lot into his office.

Weighing 335 pounds, Lenczowski suffered constantly from pain in his knees and ankles. Everyday activities such as walking and even traveling on an airplane had become difficult.

At the age of 39, he was diagnosed with a heart condition and hypertension (high blood pressure). He knew it was time to make a change and his doctor agreed.

“It was a chore to get to work. I had to park and then walk,” says Lenczowski. “By the time I got to work I was sweating and I would have to time things so I could cool off before I had a meeting.”

The extra weight not only took a toll on his physical health, but also was chipping away at his self-esteem. Lenczowski, who worked as a fundraiser for a nonprofit health organization, felt like a hypocrite.

“People would see me then … they didn’t respect me,” remembers Lenczowski. “How could I ask for money to support [the foundation] without practicing what I preached?”

Achieving various fitness goals was a tremendous boost to Lenczowski’s self-confidence. The physical accomplishments began to have a positive affect on other aspects of his life as he realized he could do anything he set his mind to. Since losing weight, he’s become more outgoing, happier, moved closer to a park, changed jobs and become a fitness instructor. He recently bought his own boot camp franchise.

“I encourage people to take that first step. I know it’s hard, but you have to find the right program,” Lenczowski says.

The dramatic weight loss and healthier lifestyle has also improved Lenczowski’s physical health. He’s no longer on heart medication and his doctor has greatly reduced his blood pressure medicines.

Lenczowski says the biggest key to his success was his network of support from friends, doctors and fitness instructors. As he approaches his goal weight, he’s set a new goal of passing his experience on to others who want to lose weight.

“I meet new people and they don’t look at the old Tim. They look at the person sitting here now — more confident, funny, loves to give back and that’s what I want to be remembered for.”

Here’s another article about weight loss.

weight loss, boot camp, health

weight loss, boot camp, health