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"Making Tyler a FIT CITY one step, one bite and one health-conscious decision at a time" |
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TYLER (KYTX) - Many East Texans are resolving to lose weight and get healthy in this first week of the New Year. The tough part is sticking to that plan. 2 East Texans have found Fit City Success by staying committed for more than 3 years now.
With rare exceptions, Carolyn Harris and Debby Hubley hit the gym twice a week to workout with their trainer. The ladies say keeping that commitment hasn't always been easy, but they now have each other to stay motivated.
A little more than 3 years ago, 64 year old Carolyn Harris and 56 year old Debby Hubley were strangers, both wanting to lose weight, gain muscle and feel energized.
"My grown kids came home one day and said mom you need to get back into the gym," says Carolyn Harris. "I'd been active all my life and I laid off and got lazy."
"I said to myself. I need to do something now," says Debby Hubley. "I really wish I'd done something when my children were younger so I wouldn't have to work so hard now."
Trainer, Emily Mariani, with Blue Orchid Fitness brought them together and she's witnessed remarkable changes.
"I've seen them become stronger, become more confident and be able to lift more than I can," says Emily Mariani, Blue Orchid Fitness.
That strength training they do twice a week at UT Tyler's Patriot Center is paying off.
"Health wise, I was able to cut my blood pressure medicines and the antacids when you start to eat right, you don't need those anymore. I had an arthritic knee. Now I feel like I can do anything," says Harris.
They say the consistent exercise is not just fuel for their bodies, but their minds as well.
"I feel good about myself. I have self confidence and I can accomplish a whole lot more than before I started this program," says Hubley.
Carolyn has dropped more than 20 pounds with a goal of taking off 10 more. Debby is down 15. And, they've gained a friend and motivator in the process.
"If you can find a partner. It's more fun that way. Text each other. If you're sore, tired and don't really want to go," says Harris.
Their trainer says her biggest piece of advice to staying with a program is finding a trainer or workout partner that you relate to and can trust.
"Someone you look forward to seeing that makes you want to go next week."
Emily Mariani says about March, the crowds in the gym usually begin to drop. She suggests staying with your fitness and healthy eating routine until then and by that time it usually has become a habit.
