John Chang 
Age: 41
FIT member since: 10/2009
John’s goals starting his fitness program at FIT: I wanted to lose some pounds and inches. I also wanted to get stronger. In a word – get Fit!
John’s results: To date, I’ve lost 20 pounds of fat, definitely getting stronger – can actually see a muscle or two in my arms and shoulders! It’s amazing the difference in situps, push ups, assisted pull-ups (at least for now they are still assisted!). There is still a lot more to do…
Q. How did you feel about your fitness and physique before starting your exercise program at FIT? How do you feel about your fitness and physique now? I felt like I had let myself turn into a tub of goo. It was harder to compete in sports, my injuries took longer to heal and I’ve had some back and neck issues over the last few years. Now – I’ve lost 3 inches on my waist, 20 pounds of goo and have a lot more energy overall. I do feel stronger and look forward to continued progress!
Q. What obstacles, if any, did you have to overcome to maintain your commitment to fitness? I travel a fair amount for business – which means missed workouts and dinners with customers… I have to admit I’ve missed more than one wake up call for the 6:00am workout!
Q. What would you consider the keys to your fitness success? I think it’s been absolutely key to have workout partners. I don’t want to let Josh and Karen down by not showing up and going through the pain together! They keep me motivated, as does our great trainer, Jen. Jen keeps things interesting by mixing things up and pushing us. Lastly, commitment to making workouts a routine has made it easier. It’s finally getting to the point that I miss it when I don’t work out!
Q. Want motivates you through your workouts? And what motivates you to come back each day? The goal of getting healthier / my trainer / my partners. The results I’ve seen motivates me to keep on going. It’s amazing how many people have noticed – and I have to admit it’s nice to hear the compliments.
Q. Are there any exercises you enjoy: Squats, kettle bell work, slams, any kind of stretching
Q. Are there any exercises you dislike: Decline situps! Clean and jerk – haven’t figure that one out yet. That fourth set of rowing!
Q. What is your favorite healthy snack? Greek yogurt with blueberries and raspberries
Q. What is your favorite non-gym physical activity? Road cycling and volleyball. Does golf count as a physical activity? ☺
From John: I’ve really enjoyed the FIT community. The support from the various trainers and early morning regulars is great. We keep it going for each other. Thanks!
From his Trainer – Jen: If I remember correctly, after an initial invitation it took about 6-12 months for John to make the decision, or should I say commitment, to come to FIT. Around his birthday I received an email with all these overweight cartoon characters struggling to lift weights: he said he was ready to come in.
If you’re in the gym at 6am on Monday or Friday, you have met/heard John Chang! He is always joking around, laughing or yelling about whatever exercise is coming up next. Some would say we have way too much fun in that hour but Josh, John and Karen just make working hard as fun as it can possibly be. John is always ready for a challenge and I think what is most admirable is that he is always trying turn a weakness into one of his strengths. Whenever he comes to me with a new goal, it is not about improving something he is already good. Rather, it sometimes involves his least favorite exercises. It’s the things he sees value in improving and he is willing and ready to dive in and tackle them. John has a very busy lifestyle (as does the rest of his workout crew), however he has made his health and fitness a priority, and has made huge lifestyle changes that I truly feel are permanent. John is committed to his workouts and eating healthier in and outside of FIT and on and off the road. Congrats to John and all his hard work!!
