Kristal's Transformation Story
Kristal’s story and transformation after going through EmpowerHer Coaching:
What was your biggest concern before you started working with Devon?
My biggest concern before starting with Devon was that she wouldn't understand my needs as a recent vertical sleeve gastrectomy recipient. I had previously worked with a trainer who was adamantly against the decision, although the trainer prior posed many valid and understandable view points, I felt in my life the surgery was something I needed and wanted and would benefit my life for a healthier, happier lifestyle. The vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) decision was not an easy one to make because by no means is it an easy way out of dealing with food issues or creating healthy workout habits. I knew i needed a trainer who was non-judgmental in my decision and someone who would guide me to make healthy choices.
What did you struggle with the most before this program and how did Devon help you overcome it?
Prior to working with Devon through EmpowerHer, I had a lot of challenges staying consistent with my workouts. Either I felt I wasn't doing enough or I felt burnt out because I would do too much. I had tried one on one personal training, group programs, and workout programs I would find online, attempting to do them on my own. All of which weren’t successful or satisfying or beneficial. With Devon's program, I know she was giving me workouts that suited me and MY needs, especially with all the changes my body was going through with my surgery.
Not only did I struggle with workouts, but food was a challenge. Staying consistent about eating protein and vegetables was a true struggle for me. With Devon, having weekly follow ups, truly changed my accountability with food and I was finally able to stay consistent with my eating habits. Just because I received a VSG surgery it did not fix my relationship with food, but working with Devon and learning her approach about mindfulness was a concept that helped me tremendsouly reframe the way I felt about food. I never ever felt an ounce of judgement by what or how i was eating with Devon, she simply just helped me reflect on my eating habits and how I could improve.
What was your favorite part about working with Devon?
My favorite part about working with Devon was our consistent communication. I worked with several trainers in the past, constantly attempting to stick to something only to fail and then to feel like I failed them and myself. Devon on the other hand, made me feel empowered, unashamed, unapologetic, and taught me to learn from my mistakes rather chastise myself for it. When I was looking for a trainer I wanted both a friend and a leader, someone who could support me in personal life, yet call me out on my bullshit. Devon provided exactly what I was looking for.
What is one life-altering lesson you learned through this program?
The one life-altering lesson I learned through this program is that I’m human. Life is messy. I will go through ups and downs and there’s no need to be hard on myself or shame myself for the errors I make. Making mistakes is ok—in fact, it’s necessary—it allows me to see what’s not working and what needs changed so that I can better my life. I’m beyond grateful for Devon's guidance.