"Once I realized how badly I wanted it, I noticed my body changing fast!"
How many months’ progress do your pictures represent? What were your stats for each picture?
1 year and 9 months
Weight: 157lbs to 123lbs
Body fat: 33% to 24.5%
What has happened so far on the program?
Working out wasn’t an issue, but being disciplined and not eating whatever you want everyday was tough. It was a lifestyle change and took me a solid 3 months to really make the permanent change.
After having 2 children, my core strength was nonexistent.
Deadlift: 60 lbs to 115 lbs
Squat: 50 lbs to 95 lbs
Bench press: got up to 50lbs
Military press: got up to 45lbs
What workout split from the book did you use?
The 5 day split worked perfectly for me. Then I did my cardio on the weekends.
What, if anything, almost kept you from buying the book or starting the program?
My friend and long distance fitness coach pushed me into buying your book. He told me that if I’d follow the Thinner Leaner Stronger 1 year workout program, I’d be extremely happy with the results.
He said it wasn’t complicated but I had to have the motivation and willingness to work hard. I am grateful for my friend’s constant push towards purchasing Mike Matthew’s book!
I was happy to try out a post-pregnancy program from someone who has had the same pregnancy and post-pregnancy struggles. Once I was comfortable with general workouts and being at the gym 5 days a week, I decided to buy TLS.
What do you like most about the program?
I like the way the phases are broken down into 8 weeks. I get to master those specific exercises and hopefully add more weight toward the end of the phase.
It took me some time to get into the rhythm of things. Once I realized how badly I wanted to lose weight and gain core strength, I noticed my body changing fast.
I also liked the warm up sets, then only doing 3 sets with 4 to 6 reps. The heavy weight lifting is making me feel good and I do see results pretty fast.
Another thing I like is how he breaks down every exercise and shows you the proper form.
How does this program compare with others you’ve tried?
I’ve only tried one other program besides TLS. I do enjoy the diet that Mike Matthews has written up in this book. It was a little shock to my system, especially the calorie counting.
Once I’ve calculated a few breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, it wasn’t so hard. Being a chef, I love to cook with butter. Now I bake or steam everything. I still enjoy my cheat meals once in a while.
How has what you’ve achieved with your body changed other areas of your life?
I am definitely more confident. I’m able to show my daughters that staying healthy and being strong is important in more ways than one. I have more energy which is great for work and I’m able to keep up with my kids after work.
This workout program has improved my physical and mental health. I’ve even had the courage to sign up for a Spartan Race this summer!!
Who would you recommend this program to and why?
I’d recommend it to anyone who is skeptical about working out. I’ve never been a gym person, and Mike Matthews made it accessible and fun at times, hihi. 😛
I saw results immediately and that made me push harder to achieve my goals and make new ones.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Read the book, then reread it and take notes. Create a list of simple goals you’d like to achieve. Then set more goals.
“No excuses! If you want it badly enough, you’ll make it happen.” My friend and long distance coach would tell me that ALL THE TIME!
If you don’t have anyone to physically be next to you during this journey, email or text a friend that will keep you on track. Do check ins once a week. It made a big difference for me.
Did you use any Legion supplements?
No, I just used New Zealand Perfect Whey Protein.