One year ago, at age 55, I was poised on the brink of a decline into an unhealthy and limiting old age. I was more than 40 lbs overweight, easily winded, and limping at every step from a meniscus tear in my knee. Neither my doctor nor the well-meaning but unqualified ‘trainers’ at my local gym could tell me authoritatively whether working out would hasten an operation or forestall it. Every day I became heavier, which caused me to experience more knee pain, which led to more comfort-seeking eating behavior and even less activity. Knowing I had little hope of correcting this spiral myself, I finally decided to seek professional help.
I am fortunate to have found Michael Karr’s Full House Fitness on the Internet. His impressive educational qualifications betokened a seriousness of purpose which was borne out when we met. As a no-nonsense, type-‘A’ business owner, I am reluctant to put myself in the hands of people who lack real expertise.
Mike’s M.S. degree in Kinesiology from the University of Michigan gave me confidence in his assertion that as long as I didn’t twist my knee, I couldn’t make the meniscus tear worse. Subsequent results have proved his advice to be trustworthy. Mike designed my program around the equipment that I already owned, and adjusted the workout to my increasing level of fitness. Our weekly meetings have alternated between workouts and nutrition consultations. Weigh-ins bring a level of accountability and ongoing motivation to the process.
Following sound and understandable principles, I lost 35 pounds, dropped from 33% to 20% body fat, and went from a 36 inch waist to 29 inch. My cholesterol levels fell – without drugs – to a point that my doctor found shocking and unprecedented - in a good way! My knee is no longer a limitation, and the need for pain relief or an operation has vanished. I have been able to incorporate enjoyable activities into my training that I never thought I’d return to; long, brisk walks with my dog and ridingmy bicycle for 50 miles at a stretch. Beyond all expectations and after decades away, I’ve even returned to my college sport, fencing.
This isn’t a quick fix, and having screwed it up so comprehensively in the past, I know that I have along way to go before I’m able to maintain fitness long term, through all the challenges of life. Is it inexpensive? No. Is it worth it? From the standpoint of an increased life span and greatly enhanced quality of life, absolutely.
Dave Solo, Chelsea, MI
[Feel free to contact me through Michael if you have questions)