Kurt

Age: 44

Lost 44 pounds

Completed Program July 2004

In October 2003 at nearly 280 pounds, I decided to start a low-carb diet, so I went to my doctor for a blood test to establish a baseline. Within a couple of days, he called me back for another blood test and then diagnosed me with not only high blood pressure and high cholesterol, but most alarmingly with Type II diabetes. He told me that the low-carb diet was out and wanted to start me immediately on medications for all three disorders. When I asked for an alternative, he gave me 30 days to make progress with diet and exercise.

At a friend’s suggestion, I attended the 20/20 Lifestyles introductory seminar. It was clear this was for me. I wanted to start that very minute, but with a planned vacation in December, I felt that starting in January would be best. Knowing that I had to make progress to avoid medication, I immediately began my own diet and exercise program prior to officially starting the 20/20 Lifestyles program.

Having already lost 40 pounds and avoiding medication, I thought I’d done pretty well. But I was totally blown away at how much further the 20/20 Lifestyles program took me. Even now, it amazes me when I look at the before and after photographs from the program. What I really learned was how to build a lifelong approach to proper diet and exercise.

Working with my dietitian, I learned the types of foods I should be eating, proper portion sizes, and approaches to handling difficult eating situations, such as parties. With my personal trainer, I learned the importance of cardiovascular training in the correct heart rate zone, proper form during strength training, and the importance of stretching.

I have always enjoyed the outdoors for hiking and backpacking. Like many people who grew up or have moved to this area, I was always captivated by Mount Rainier. As I began to get stronger and feel better and better, I asked my trainer if I’d be in good enough shape to climb Mount Rainier (elevation 14, 411 ft.) this season. She said, ‘Definitely!’ It was awesome to have such a goal to work towards. As part of my fitness routine, I began weekly hikes in the Cascade mountains east of Seattle. On June 17, 2004, I stood at the top of Mount Rainier and thanked everyone at 20/20 Lifestyles who had helped me achieve my goal. I have become addicted to climbing and am making plans for several other major climbs, including Mt. Kilimanjaro.”