At the Y, we are always excited to support our members along their quest to embrace a healthy lifestyle. For Morris Community YMCA member Jennifer Brown, personal training at the Y has played a significant role in her weight loss journey.

“My recent inspiration came from my daughter. She told me a year ago that she was getting married and I said to myself that I didn’t want to look the way I did then for the wedding,” Jennifer said. “I was hoping to lose 100 pounds by the time of the wedding, which is this month, and I hit that goal in July!”

Jennifer started training with Morris Community YMCA Health and Wellness Director Ro Petersen in January and has enjoyed the teamwork involved in the process.

“Ro has provided great support and advice. I think she was more thrilled about seeing me lose 100 pounds than I was. She’s been there and she’s able to share her experience and you feel a sense of camaraderie because of that,” Jennifer said.

A key aspect of Jennifer’s journey was breaking down her big picture goal into smaller segments. 

“It’s too easy to get discouraged when you’ve got a big goal so you have to take it month by month and even week by week at times. I would set smaller goals to make sure that there was some progression. As long as I consistently kept going, I knew I would be fine,” she said.

Jennifer said she is often at the Y before and after work and enjoys her experience having learned new exercises. 

“I really enjoy going down to the weightroom and actually knowing what I’m doing. I feel confident when I do it and I love that feeling,” she said.

The result has been a healthier and happier lifestyle.

“Recently, we went to Dollywood in Tennessee and I was able to get on the roller coasters with my kids. We did a lot of walking and even some hiking and in the past my knees would be killing me and I probably wouldn’t have been able to make it because of shortness of breath. Being able to participate in things like that felt great,” Jennifer said.

Moving forward, Jennifer said she would like to lose another 55 pounds and that she is confident she can take the steps to reach that goal because of the support of the Y. 

“I love the Y because there is a sense of community. I’ve seen all shapes and sizes come through the doors. There are different fitness levels, but everyone is treated the same.  Everybody knows everybody and everyone is supportive,” she said. 

On behalf of the YMCA, we’d like to congratulate Jennifer on this amazing accomplishment! We are so excited to be a part of your health and wellness journey.

Whether you’re just starting a fitness routine or looking to add a little variety to your exercise program, a YMCA personal trainer can help you to achieve your wellness goals. One-on-one or small group coaching enables our certified personal trainers to interact with members in creating a fitness program that meets their needs and offers direction, education, motivation and support every step of the way.

First-time personal training clients can purchase 3 sessions for $99. For more information about personal training at the YMCA, stop by your local branch today.