AGE:  43

PROFESSION:  CEO, Biotechnology company

BACKGROUND:  I moved to California some four and half years ago (originally from the UK) and one of the things I loved about living in Santa Monica, other than the beautiful weather, was the fact that wherever you look you see ¨beautiful people¨ exercising and in great shape! All the motivation one would need to stay in shape right? Umm…in my case, not so much. In fact in a 12 month period in which I was hectic and busy in my work (that frequently heard excuse!), I put on 20 pounds and got in pretty awful shape. It was at that time I decided that things had to change and my girlfriend, a real Sonki advocate and past graduate, suggested that I give it a try. Needless to say the first session was an “experience,” but I have never looked back from that day. After 10 weeks of attendance, that I have thoroughly enjoyed, I have lost 15 pounds (fat mass down 35 lbs and lean mass up 20 lbs) and my body fat percentage has decreased 15% (32% to 17%). In addition, my push-ups and sit-ups both increased by over 60% (to 44 and 61 respectively) and the dreaded mile run time has decreased from 7:52 to 6:31. I am very happy!!

I can honestly say I feel like a transformed person, both mentally and physically. My energy level has increased out of all recognition, I feel MUCH happier in myself and my desire to keep going down the road of improvement is something I have never experienced before.

What is your current exercise routine?  My current routine is pretty much Sonki based – Mon, Wed, Fri mornings (the early 6.30am shift – I’m a “morning person”) and just for good measure Saturday’s at 9am. I have also been complementing Sonki’s class with running a couple of times a week, any distance from 4 to 8 miles, at an easy relaxed pace.

What is your motivation to stay in shape?  As I said, the “Sonki transformation” has really taken me from a period of pretty unhealthy living to one where I relish the morning boot camp classes, my energy level is completely elevated and I truly feel like a different person – a change that has radically changed my attitude in many ways and boosted my general feeling of well being. That’s really motivation enough for me!!  (Besides which, my wonderful girlfriend will dump me if I get out of shape again!! 😉

What is your greatest challenge to staying in shape?  My love of food and wine, combined with questionable self control!?

What is your key to success?  I have significantly increased my level of exercise, both frequency and type, and have also been seeing a dietitian who has really helped me with diet (ironically I have never eaten so much!). It’s a mind game and I needed help to start winning!

How long have you been doing Sonki Fitness Boot Camp?  I have now completed two 5-week sessions (10 weeks), and I can see it’s going to be a part of my everyday routine from here on…

What do you like about Sonki Fitness Boot Camp and how has it affected your life?  The results! I’m incredibly happy with what I’ve achieved in 10 weeks and feel there’s plenty more potential…however, I would have never achieved the results without the help of Sonki (Thanks!).

Firstly, Sonki himself – a fair, but pretty tough coach…there’s no hiding from his persuasive challenge, which is a good thing. I am, however, happy that the “up an inch, down an inch” nightmares have stopped now.  😉

Secondly, my fellow “boot camp warriors” – I never thought pain could be so much fun (?) and it’s a little worrying how much we smile when on the edge. My commitment to turning up and getting through the classes has very much been driven by the great camaraderie of all the enjoyable people in the group.

What advice would you give to others about fitness?  Don’t accept excuses from yourself. Take the plunge and get yourself into a regular training program that fits your daily life routine, and importantly that you enjoy. Combine this with attention to your diet and you have all the ingredients for sustained success.

Any other comments?  I would totally recommend Sonki Fitness to anyone who is seeking to get in shape. It’s been a pleasure!