I started training at DNA in late January of 2015. I come from a fairly athletic background. I played sports and exercised in a traditional gym setting for about seven years, and was frustrated due to the lack of results that I saw. I had run up to 30 miles a week and restricting my calorie intake for years. I was not a client that came in overweight or completely out of shape. I ate fairly healthy but I did not have muscle definition, or a level of leanness that I desired. My body and my fitness were at a stand still.
Before & After – 90 days
I was extremely hesitant at first and I worried that I would gain weight, as David had told me to cut my running down by at least half. This concept was terrifying to me, I was afraid that if I didn’t burn the extra calories running, it would equate to extra fat. David reassured me that if I [gave] the DNA fitness and nutrition program 100% for 6 months, I would be in the best shape of my life. Still hesitant, I gave it a shot.
Within 3 months I saw serious results. I was exercising for less time and eating more than I ever have in my entire life. Much to my surprise, my body fat percentage dropped drastically. I went from 19% to 14% body fat in about 4 months. I felt stronger, more confident and more energetic. My body completely transformed into something I spent years trying to attain through calorie restriction and endless cardio.
Before & After
I trained 4-5 days a week at DNA for 5 months. The trainers at DNA spent countless sessions teaching me proper form and technique. At times I was impatient, I wanted to go faster, heavier, etc., but the trainers made sure that I learned the proper form and technique for all the movements incorporated in DNA training. I am incredibly grateful for the time and dedication that the staff spends on teaching clients the correct way to exercise.
Perhaps the most eye-opening aspect of DNA’s personal training and fitness program was the nutritional aspect. I thought that I was doomed to fail. I restricted my calories for years and spent so much time and money on fad diets but nothing seemed to work long-term.
The nutrition plan at DNA had the opposite effect on me. I found myself eating more and getting the results that I wanted! After a while, I stopped calling it a diet and realized that I had adopted a new lifestyle. For me, a diet now means something temporary or short-term. A diet is something that works for a little while. The nutrition plan at DNA is a lifestyle change that is satiating, realistic, and effective. It is the ideal nutrition for active people who seek a healthy lifestyle!
After 5 short months at DNA I was set to move to Portland, Oregon to attend law school. In the short time that I was at DNA, I developed close bonds with the trainers and staff members and it was truly saddening to leave. I was nervous about finding a new gym; especially since crossfit gyms can vary in quality, training, and effectiveness. As soon as I arrived in Portland I began the tireless search of finding a new box.
Kahlia Increased her Strength & Fitness level to her personal highest, in 90 days!
I went to several gyms and picked the brains of the coaches, I have not been able to duplicate the experience that I had at DNA but I have had the pleasure of finding a similar sense of community and belonging.
The box that I am currently at is for experienced crossfitters. I learned hard and fast that I was among elite athletes in the Portland metro area. The WODs are jam-packed with advanced Olympic lifts and they tend to move at a quick pace.
I no longer have the experts at DNA to guide me through all the workouts and help perfect my form, but I have the knowledge and training that was passed on to me. I can confidently train with crossfit athletes that compete in regional competitions (and win!) with my DNA skills set. I’ve been pushed to limits that I did not know existed and my foundational training as a member of DNA has given me the strength, endurance, and perseverance to succeed. I’ve been able to train at a competitive and advanced level in Portland, thanks to David and his team of trainers. I’m looking forward to competing in my first crossfit competition in a couple of months and I owe all of my abilities to my home gym, DNA!
Related
If you have learned lifting technique at DNA, you have doubtless been encouraged to push your limits and build your strength. One critical point in strength building is that part of a lift where you GET STUCK. Your deadlift is near the top but not quite there, and it doesn’t want to move, or you’re near the top of a pull-up and feel like you just want to drop off the bar and curl up into a little ball on the floor.
In the past I have struggled with my weight constantly going up and down and staying healthy. I’ve always lost weight by taking in less calories and increasing my activity. It was difficult because I would be hungry and tired all of the time.
