Considering hiring Erik [Archive]

kirstny

11-13-2008, 12:30 AM

If he'll have me!

I have about 5-10lbs. of fat to lose and I want to lose it and maintain. Possibly--not sure--do a comp in about a year. You may remember me on here before: I had planned to do a comp, but got down to the diet and did not feel good on it at all and decided it wasn't worth it.

My main goal now, really, is to LOOK more like what I am: a personal trainer!

Why I'm hesitating: the cost, the timing (it IS the holidays), and what I'd have to give up.
I generally eat pretty healthy, but I like to have the option to: have a drink, go out to eat, NOT have to plan and prepare ever single meal..

I would be MORE than happy losing this weight slowly. I just need to see it go.

Would you suggest I work with Erik? Not sure if I'm ready...?

I also have physical limitations when it comes to workouts, but I emailed with him and it sounds like we could work around them.

Feedback?
Thanks!:oops:

Oh, and I LOVE having an exercise program to follow and could do this party relatively easily. Nutrition is NOT as easy for me.
I also have had my RMR tested and a peak VO2 test done.

I'm considering hiring Erik or this: http://www.precisionnutrition.com/products/consultation-coaching/lean-eating-for-women

Cathie

11-13-2008, 12:35 AM

If you can afford it .... HIRE ERIK!

kirstny

11-13-2008, 12:36 AM

If you can afford it .... HIRE ERIK!

I can't really afford it, but I could make it work.

I'm just worried that I'll quit, lose motivation, find it TOO hard to follow (and maintain my life at the same time)...

Erik

11-13-2008, 12:42 AM

I'm just worried that I'll quit, lose motivation, find it TOO hard to follow (and maintain my life at the same time)...

Re: quitting - that's entirely within your control. If you're serious about what you say you want to achieve, you won't.

Re: losing motivation. Similar to the above. No one can really help you with motivation. Lasting motivation is going to come from you. Again, if you want to achieve a goal, you'll find a way to do it.

Re: too hard to follow. Recognize that everything worth achieving comes with a price. There IS a cost to getting in shape - what that cost is, can differ from person to person, but there IS a cost. If there weren't one, everyone would be in shape. Whether it's the cost of time, of saying no to crap, of having to plan better, of having to drink less, whatever.

Add to that - I believe it's only as hard as you believe it to be. There's something to be said for choosing to enjoy the process. If you dwell on everything you're giving up (hypothetically) or on any other negative, then yeah, you're not going to last because you're focusing on the wrong things.

Mindset, visualization, etc., is important.

kirstny

11-13-2008, 12:47 AM

Re: quitting - that's entirely within your control. If you're serious about what you say you want to achieve, you won't.

Re: losing motivation. Similar to the above. No one can really help you with motivation. Lasting motivation is going to come from you. Again, if you want to achieve a goal, you'll find a way to do it.

Re: too hard to follow. Recognize that everything worth achieving comes with a price. There IS a cost to getting in shape - what that cost is, can differ from person to person, but there IS a cost. If there weren't one, everyone would be in shape. Whether it's the cost of time, of saying no to crap, of having to plan better, of having to drink less, whatever.

Add to that - I believe it's only as hard as you believe it to be. There's something to be said for choosing to enjoy the process. If you dwell on everything you're giving up (hypothetically) or on any other negative, then yeah, you're not going to last because you're focusing on the wrong things.

Mindset, visualization, etc., is important.

Thanks for responding. I just have a hard time because I go back and forth between being satisfied with where I'm at and wanting to be better. And my husband is SO not into this stuff at all, which can make it hard to always be 100% on track. He eats whatever the hell he wants. But, he WILL eat most things I make for him..

Maybe I'm making excuses.

I sent you an email several months ago. I have a back condition (scheuermann's) that rules out any jumping, running, deadlifts, squats (any axial-load exercises).

Erik

11-13-2008, 12:52 AM

And my husband is SO not into this stuff at all, which can make it hard to always be 100% on track. He eats whatever the hell he wants. But, he WILL eat most things I make for him..

Perhaps an idea for a new post - how do people succeed in light of a partner/spouse that isn't living the same lifestyle, wanting to eat similar, etc.

Maybe I'm making excuses.

That you're even asking that ... might tell you something.

I sent you an email several months ago. I have a back condition (scheuermann's) that rules out any jumping, running, deadlifts, squats (any axial-load exercises).

I remember.

smuggie

11-13-2008, 12:52 AM

Cathie

11-13-2008, 12:58 AM

Thanks for responding. I just have a hard time because I go back and forth between being satisfied with where I'm at and wanting to be better. And my husband is SO not into this stuff at all, which can make it hard to always be 100% on track. He eats whatever the hell he wants. But, he WILL eat most things I make for him..
My husband is soooo not into eating well or even exercising for that matter. People can't even believe we're married because we are exact opposites on this. I cook two different meals every night. His and mine. I just choose to eat the way I want to eat for my goals.

Maybe I'm making excuses.
Sorry, but yes you are

I sent you an email several months ago. I have a back condition (scheuermann's) that rules out any jumping, running, deadlifts, squats (any axial-load exercises).

There are lots of people who exercise with physical limitations. You can always work around them.

kirstny

11-13-2008, 12:58 AM

Ok, ok, you guys got me. I'm making excuses. :p:whistling:

So, Erik, can I ask 2 more questions without driving you crazy?

1. Do you factor in RMR when you come up with meal plans?
2. Do you factor in heart rate when you do cardio plans?

And I know, from our earlier exchange, that you can work around my dumb back.

So, then, it's just up to me to decide...

jills

11-13-2008, 01:00 AM

you already know what i think. :wink:

kirstny

11-13-2008, 01:01 AM

you already know what i think. :wink:

Thanks!
:love:

I guess I'm... scared.
:wigging:

Erik

11-13-2008, 01:01 AM

Ok, ok, you guys got me. I'm making excuses. :p:whistling:

So, Erik, can I ask 2 more questions without driving you crazy?

1. Do you factor in RMR when you come up with meal plans?
2. Do you factor in heart rate when you do cardio plans?.

1. We can only guess at RMR - there is an assumption of where it should be, and then the reality of where it actually is. Basic outcome-based decision making makes it relatively simple to track down.

2. No. I really don't care about heart rate. Well, let me correct that. I might give a % of MHR for SS cardio, but that's not because I care what the actual heart rate is; it's just to ensure that a person isn't slacking off or working too hard.

kirstny

11-13-2008, 01:07 AM

1. We can only guess at RMR - there is an assumption of where it should be, and then the reality of where it actually is. Basic outcome-based decision making makes it relatively simple to track down.

2. No. I really don't care about heart rate. Well, let me correct that. I might give a % of MHR for SS cardio, but that's not because I care what the actual heart rate is; it's just to ensure that a person isn't slacking off or working too hard.

We actually do RMR testing at my gym with this company's equipment: http://newleaffitness.com/NewLeaf/NL_home.html

It's determined based on gas exchange.

Meechel

11-13-2008, 01:24 AM

Hiring Erik was the best investment I ever made.....he gave me to the tools but I had to use them....no one can stop me from my goals but me....my motivation comes from w/in and yes having support here helps and is awesome but at the end of the day I am the one that followed the plan to make my progress....over 52 inches lost with him and 50lbs in 10 months.

I plan on using him for my prep for my bb comp also! :lifter:

Alicrmt

11-13-2008, 01:24 AM

I guess I'm... scared.
:wigging:

What are you scared of? Not sticking to your plan and wasting your $$? It doesn't sound like you are getting there on your own, otherwise you would not be thinking about hiring Erik.

I think it comes down to how badly you want it. Correct me if I'm wrong but it sounds like you want to keep your current lifestyle, but you also want to lose the last 5 or 10 pounds :scratch: If that was possible, wouldn't you already be there?

Erik is worth the $$. Give it a shot, you have nothing to lose (aside from your extra fat, and maybe your $ if you don't stick to the plan, but it's a risk work taking IMO) :thumb:

kirstny

11-13-2008, 01:28 AM

Thanks, everyone, for your responses!

And thanks, Erik, for putting up with all my questions!

I'm definitely on the verge of making this commitment!

Off to bed and gonna think about it tomorrow.

Keep the responses coming!

Thanks again.
K.

Inatic

11-13-2008, 01:36 AM

I started my journey with 5 boys at home, hubby, teaching and a dream. It didnt deter me one bit because my house was full of all the things i chose not to eat and the separate meals i GLADLY cooked, in order to reach my goals. My hubby doesnt embrace the lifestyle like i do but he is very supportive of my journey.

And i'd never have reached my dreams if it werent for my work with Erik.. which currently runs over 2+yrs.

Ya Gotta Wanna.

Kristyn

11-13-2008, 01:42 AM

My husband is soooo not into eating well or even exercising for that matter. People can't even believe we're married because we are exact opposites on this. I cook two different meals every night. His and mine. I just choose to eat the way I want to eat for my goals.

me too! Jeff and I are WAY different. But we make it work. I just cook my meals and he is fine with what i eat. As long as your husband respects your goals, things should work out well.

And yea, the holidays are a hard time to start a diet/training program, so maybe wait until the first of the year? but then you are putting off time that could be spent working towards your goals. It all comes down to what your really want. short term gratification? or progress towards your longer term goals. But either way, if you are going to hire someone, hire Erik. That part should be no question.

mcv

11-13-2008, 01:50 PM

Just my 2 cents - my DH is not currently into lifting/eating well - he used to but started his own business a few years ago and is pretty focused there. So he eats and drinks and doesn't workout at all. BUT - he recognizes fully how important this whole fitness thing is to me, so he is fully supportive there. So no problems. :)

I say do it - really nothing to lose. If you hate it, if it starts screwing up your life - stop doing it. :lol:

sarahlou

11-13-2008, 04:26 PM

I will add my two cents. I worked with Erik for only a short period of time and I seriously regret leaving. I, too, was scared - scared of spending a lot of money and not seeing results, scared of not having the will power, determination to make it, and scared because I knew nothing about exercise and certainly not about weights. I wimped out and went to another coach who claimed to offer a kinder, gentler approach and who is highly regarded nationally. I had a horrible time but made it to the stage albeit a scrawny starved runt and I ended up having a horrid rebound. I came to my senses and found another coach who would take me and I am doing well - he's alot like Erik and that's what I have discovered over the last 5 months. I share all this to say don't throw it away kid! Go for it - hire Erik! As long as you are honest and upfront with your fears and communication is the key, I think you will find you get the info, training, and support you need and you will achieve your goals. I understand your fears and concerns but this is a great place to be and if you look at how the competitors here have done, how happy they are with their preps and their results I don't think you will find any finer. If the cost is the concern think of it as the best Xmas present you can give yourself and your spouse - a healthy you!

kirstny

11-13-2008, 07:57 PM

If you hate it, if it starts screwing up your life - stop doing it. :lol:

Kinda what I'm worried about...:sadface:

Would hate to waste the money.

But, that is MY CHOICE. I am.... I think... gonna do it!

Erik

11-13-2008, 08:22 PM

Kinda what I'm worried about...:sadface:

Would hate to waste the money.

But, that is MY CHOICE. I am.... I think... gonna do it!

You better be sure first.

kirstny

11-13-2008, 08:28 PM

You better be sure first.

Yeah, I know you're right.

I'm SURE I want to look and feel better.
I'm SURE that I'm not happy with where I'm at.
I'm SURE my husband is supportive.

I'm not sure I can do it. But, hell, guess I don't know if I don't try..?

sarahlou

11-13-2008, 08:38 PM

Did you read the post on Erik's blog? I think it might be a useful exercise for you to work though the questions at the end of the blog entry:

Everyday you must sit through and start the process all over again. Ask yourself these questions…

* What is my goal?
* What do I want?
* Who do I want to be?
* Why am I really doing this?
* Why do I really want this?
* How do I feel when I am winning at this?

TEACHK

11-13-2008, 08:39 PM

I worked with Erik for about 6 months and only stopped as I was having surgery and needed time to recover.
1. It was well worth EVERY penny.
2. It's not easy but it's simple...that is, Erik's plans are great and you get out what you put in.
3. I'm doing it on my own now and miss the accountabilitly and feedback. I can't wait til I can afford to work with him again (kid in college full time now so my funds have been diverted!)
4. Uhh, as the saying goes...JUST DO IT!

kirstny

11-13-2008, 08:43 PM

Ok, I'm IN!

:wigging::dumbbells::love:

kirstny

11-13-2008, 08:48 PM

Just filled out the questionnaire at the website.

Yay! Excited and nervous! Wheeee!

:lifter:

mackie

11-13-2008, 08:59 PM

My main goal now, really, is to LOOK more like what I am: a personal trainer!

Why I'm hesitating: the cost, the timing (it IS the holidays), and what I'd have to give up.
I generally eat pretty healthy, but I like to have the option to: have a drink, go out to eat, NOT have to plan and prepare ever single meal..

Hi, kirstny.
Just wondering how you advise your clients, when they make these types of comments to you.

Don't get me wrong. I have trouble with diet, myself. Perhaps more than most. I've gone (on more than one ocassion) extended periods of time practicing little-to-no dietary discipline/focus whatsoever. And the results have never been good. :sad:

I find it interesting that you seem to be more concerned with what you'd "have to give up" than what you could achieve. And I am really curious about what you might tell clients when they have this mindset.

kirstny

11-13-2008, 09:06 PM

Hi, kirstny.
Just wondering how you advise your clients, when they make these types of comments to you.

Don't get me wrong. I have trouble with diet, myself. Perhaps more than most. I've gone (on more than one ocassion) extended periods of time practicing little-to-no dietary discipline/focus whatsoever. And the results have never been good. :sad:

I find it interesting that you seem to be more concerned with what you'd "have to give up" than what you could achieve. And I am really curious about what you might tell clients when they have this mindset.

Oh, it's much easier to advise others than it is to keep myself on track! :p I definitely have them focus on the rewards. If I could do this for myself, I wouldn't even consider hiring someone to help me. But I have definitely helped my clients achieve great things. And I've worked out consistently since I was 17 (I'm 33) and maintained a healthy weight. I just need to take it to the next step for my body and goals.

I'm excited!

mackie

11-13-2008, 09:08 PM

Oh, it's much easier to advise others than it is to keep myself on track! :p
:lol: :lol: I suppose it would be!

Congrats on your decision! and enjoy!!!

kirstny

11-13-2008, 09:19 PM

Ok, I'm IN!

:wigging::dumbbells::love:

Er.. I'm in if he takes me on.
:blondmoment:

Anca

11-17-2008, 08:45 PM

Er.. I'm in if he takes me on.
:blondmoment:

So did he? :p
When are you starting?

kirstny

11-17-2008, 11:15 PM

So did he? :p
When are you starting?

Yup! Sending my foodlog and pics in tonite! :shakeithappy::shakeithappy::shakeithappy:

Anca

11-18-2008, 09:34 PM

Yup! Sending my foodlog and pics in tonite! :shakeithappy::shakeithappy::shakeithappy:

:thumb:

kirstny

11-18-2008, 10:05 PM

:thumb:
I can't wait!
I was nervous and scared to make the commitment, but now I'm just so eager! Yay!
:oops::yayconfetti:

arouss4

12-03-2008, 05:29 PM

Er.. I'm in if he takes me on.
:blondmoment:

let me know how it goes. i am planning to work with him also, but money has been real tight for me right now. one more semester then i am done with school and hopefully a "real job". But i really wish I could start working with him now.

good luck and stay motivated towards your goal. always be positive!!

Lyn

12-03-2008, 07:28 PM

I can't wait!
I was nervous and scared to make the commitment, but now I'm just so eager! Yay!
:oops::yayconfetti:

I was like that too. I still remember how it felt when I got my first plan. :yippee: Even in the following months you'll get excited when you get updates.

Meechel

12-03-2008, 07:47 PM

I was like that too. I still remember how it felt when I got my first plan. :yippee: Even in the following months you'll get excited when you get updates.

:nod: and I am re-hiring Erik and start Jan 1 and I am so fricking excited I can't wait :yahoo: :bunny: :yippee:

kirstny

12-03-2008, 08:16 PM

:nod: and I am re-hiring Erik and start Jan 1 and I am so fricking excited I can't wait :yahoo: :bunny: :yippee:

Glad I'm not the only one who gets stupid-excited about this!
:lol:

And glad to hear the people who HAVE worked with Erik are still that excited!
:lol::whipped:

I should get my plan today! Or, tomorrow at the latest. Via email, right?

Lyn

12-03-2008, 08:25 PM

Glad I'm not the only one who gets stupid-excited about this!
:lol:

And glad to hear the people who HAVE worked with Erik are still that excited!
:lol::whipped:

I should get my plan today! Or, tomorrow at the latest. Via email, right?

Yep by email. You mean you're not stalking your inbox yet? I stalked mine for about two weeks before I got my first one. :lol:

kirstny

12-03-2008, 08:30 PM

Yep by email. You mean you're not stalking your inbox yet? I stalked mine for about two weeks before I got my first one. :lol:

I'm checking it every chance I get. I paid on Monday morning. He said it would get to me "within 3 business days." I'm not sure if that includes Monday or not..
:shakeithappy::eh:

Lyn

12-03-2008, 08:34 PM

I'm checking it every chance I get. I paid on Monday morning. He said it would get to me "within 3 business days." I'm not sure if that includes Monday or not..
:shakeithappy::eh:

I'm sure you'll get it soon. It's worth the wait. The first one has a lot of information so be sure to read everything carefully. I remember the first time I did my workouts I misread and thought the warm up was my actual workout. Imagine when I turned the page and saw the real one. :crying:

:dry:

mackie

12-03-2008, 08:39 PM

I'm sure you'll get it soon. It's worth the wait. The first one has a lot of information so be sure to read everything carefully. I remember the first time I did my workouts I misread and thought the warm up was my actual workout. Imagine when I turned the page and saw the real one. :crying:

:dry:I remember that. :lol:

Inatic

12-03-2008, 08:45 PM

Lyn

12-03-2008, 08:54 PM

:funny: i can see your face as you tell this lol...

I STILL get ansy even 2.5yrs later when i know a new program is coming. :bannana:

:ban: You should have seen my face at the gym. :dry: Actually that was one of my first of many plan-related gym faces. :lol3:

Meechel

12-03-2008, 08:56 PM

Cara

12-03-2008, 09:19 PM

smuggie

12-03-2008, 09:32 PM

Lyn, why don't you tell Kirstin (I think that's her name.) about a certain math-related mishap you had with your first plan. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v614/montagnu/smiles%20and%20laughter%20smilies/whistlinggirl.gif

kirstny

12-03-2008, 11:10 PM

smuggie

12-03-2008, 11:25 PM

Do tell!
:p

Nah, I'll let Lyn have the honors. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v614/montagnu/smiles%20and%20laughter%20smilies/mooselol.gif

Erik

12-03-2008, 11:44 PM

I never laughed so hard as when you showed me your version of burpees, too. OMG! That was too funny. :laugh:

Burpees? Or Mountain Climbers?

kirstny

12-04-2008, 12:09 AM

Burpees? Or Mountain Climbers?

:wave:

Have I mentioned I'm excited?
:shakeithappy::laugh:

smuggie

12-04-2008, 12:14 AM

:wave:

Have I mentioned I'm excited?
:shakeithappy::laugh:

Not at all.

Patricia

12-04-2008, 12:28 AM

:wave:

Have I mentioned I'm excited?
:shakeithappy::laugh:

who's excited? :uhuh:

:)

Lyn

12-04-2008, 02:00 AM

I never laughed so hard as when you showed me your version of burpees, too. OMG! That was too funny. :laugh:

It was Mountain Climbers dork, get it right. :finger: I don't think I ever had burpees. If I did I skipped them. :hehe: Burpees just have "bad situation for Lyn" written all over them. :sad: