How I helped a friend lose 4 dress sizes

"You can have everything in life you want, if you just help other people get what they want." Zig Ziglar 

For years I've been interested in the concept of a "frainer." This completely made-up word means a friend who trains you. I've been interested in the concept because I couldn't afford a trainer when I started working out. I did take the initial assessment the gym offered me. I think I did those same exercises for at least 5 years. 

I felt stuck. I needed help and I thought, "Wouldn't it be nice if one of my friends could train me?" The problem was, the people in my life were not into fitness. Back to the drawing board. 

Time passed and I became a distance runner. During those years, I learned a lot from friends and certified running coaches in our running group. Some of my greatest learnings came from "frainers" who came along and helped me become better. 

Recently I encouraged a friend to exercise again. A casual conversation in a group setting turned into occasional check-ins. The truth is, encouraging words are like seeds: they produce fruit either now or later.

A friend of mine who is a health professional planted some great seeds in my life 12 years ago. I did listen to her advice and took notes. 

I never forgot what she said. Her advice is so solid, I am applying it and getting great results from it today. I'm glad she took the time to listen to me and give me solid health advice and encouragement. I did the same thing to that group of people: I offered encouragement. 

This week I learned one person is down 4 dress sizes. I always say, "You did all the work!" Which is so true. 

I believe that for every diet and exercise method, there is a real person who puts in the work. 

Real people make a decision to change. 

Real people look for a solution to reach their desired goal. 

Real people work hard day after day, in the reality of their circumstances, and real people get results. 

I give this friend all the credit for being four sizes down. Hard work really paid off. 

This entire thing has inspired the daylights out of me. 

I'm always looking for inspiration on my health journey. I also know that inspiration without action is empty so here is what I decided to do:

• Remain accountable for my exercise and nutrition goals. I contacted one of my trainers and I shared my specific goal. I also shared my timeline. 

I can say that this simple act gave me the boost I needed to continue to invest in my wellness. 

I'm not sure if you feel stuck. If you need some help and direction to accomplish your goals, please let me know if I can help you. 

* I am not a medical or fitness professional. This post is for inspiration purposes only.