Supportive environment encourages lifestyle change
Trainer: Michelle Jeeninga
Recently retired from a thriving dental practice she co-founded with husband, Tom, Kathy Couston jumped at the change to join this year's Fittest Loser Challenge.
With time now available, she felt confident in achieving her goals of living a healthier lifestyle.
"The big difference for me was the opportunity to work with fitness professionals," says Couston, who's thrilled to have been part of the Push Fitness program.
Kathy seldom felt athletic, but embraced this chance to become a fitness competitor.
"I've tried to lose weight in the past with limited success," Couston shares. "The workouts at Push Fitness are intense, and I learned I needed this level of vigorous exercise along with continually telling myself I could do it."
Kathy credits trainer, Michelle Jeeninga, with helping her stay the course at Push Fitness Studio.
"Michelle challenged and motivated me in a nice, but firm manner. Having her as my trainer has made a big difference with my results," Kathy says. She worked hard at every session to focus and listen to Michelle, even when her trainer tossed the bananas and chocolate covered nuts from Kathy's protein shake!
Friends at her Jazzercise studio followed Kathy's progress, and on Monday mornings, posted the Daily Herald Health and Fitness section at the front desk. "They have been so supportive, always complimenting me on my weight loss and giving me encouragement," says Couston.
Over 12 weeks of the Fittest Loser contest, with serious grit and determination, Kathy lost an impressive 43 pounds. "My strongest supporter has been my husband, Tom," Couston says. "I train daily and he works out four days a week. Tom joins me on walks, we plan meals together and he's been so helpful with stretching."
The entire Couston family continues to be on board with the new food choices, both dining at home and stepping out.
"Tom is great with the grill," Kathy says.
Things have changed in their lives - improved health and a reduced grocery bills feel great to the Coustons. "We now take a pass on alcoholic beverages, desserts and don't miss the junk food."
Kathy remains solidly committed to their new lifestyle and talks about her long-term goal.
"Now that I have succeeded in losing significant weight with the Fittest Loser contest, I will continue moving forward to becoming a healthier person overall."
- Annie Overboe
Kathy Couston, 57, Schaumburg
Height: 5'2"
Starting weight: 206
Final weight: 163
Pounds lost: 43
Percent lost: 20.87
Starting BMI: 37.7
Final BMI: 29.8
Waistline inches lost: 7