Evan Lowenstein

Tell me about your life before Vision?

I have always had body image issues being short and tubby and I was never athletic or good at sports whilst growing up. As I aged this didn't improve, I have a love of fine dining so my diet often included alcohol, cheeses and large quantities of food late at night. My circle of influence didn't help this situation, I constantly had work and social events which mainly revolved around wining and dining. I was always sluggish and had low energy, getting out of bed was always so difficult in the morning. This lifestyle not only had an adverse effect on my body shape but also my health. I was categorized by my Doctor as obese as well as suffering from high Blood Pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

I had a few experiences with Personal Trainers and gyms in the past but I hated exerting myself and would always look for excuses as to why I couldn't train. I never really stuck at anything longer than a month, it was always on and off and as such I never saw the results that I desired. It wasn't until I saw my friend Mark's amazing transformation that I heard about Vision Personal Training and though I better give this a go for myself.

What Results have you achieved?

I am currently the lightest I have been in over 7 years! I have lost 12kg so far and dropped several sizes in my clothes, so much so that I am no longer categorized as obese! My health has improved dramatically with my Blood Pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels all dropping. My energy has improved and I can now bounce out of bed rather than always snoozing my alarm. 

How has life changed for you?

The medical results as I previously mentioned have been amazing and I am no longer in serious danger health wise. My confidence has improved greatly and with that my social life, I am much more confident in having a conversation with people i don't know and my mindset is no longer that of a self conscious overweight person. People are now commenting and are actually jealous of my body which is unbelievable and something i could never have imagined ever happening. 

Exercise has now become a great form of stress release and I can honestly say for the first time ever that I enjoy it and don't dread it. I had never done much weight training previously so it's great to see the muscularity change in my body. I have confidence in my own body and strength now and love to challenge myself with my training whereas previously I would avoid anything remotely challenging all together. I do the little things now like taking the stairs instead of the elevator. 

Lastly the education has been a huge reason for my success, I know so much more about nutrition and I am better equipped to make good choices when I am out. I have also cut down my alcohol consumption which is a big step for me.

What is your favourite thing about training at Vision?

The comradery between everyone in the studio would have to be a standout for me, I have made new friends and have great rapport with everyone in the community. My Trainer Vinay, has been great, he has encouraged me a lot, giving me constant reinforcement and support. I have never had so much positivity in my life. Lastly the emphasis on nutrition here at the studio which has helped me create a balanced lifestyle which i can stick to ongoing.

What advice would you give someone in a similar situation to where you were, and is thinking about making a change?

Take a leap of faith but do it slowly, no need to heap pressure on yourself to be 100% from the get go. The first few weeks may be hard but finding a great routine is the most important thing to do. Once you are in a routine it becomes natural and easy to achieve. Focus on the nutrition as that is where the best results will come, be conscious of what you are putting in your mouth. Finally, low to moderate cardio is the key, no need to just smash yourself every workout, this was a big thing that helped me!