Ellie's Story:
I took my first hit of Crack I was 19 in a Taco Bell parking lot. At this point I had already detoxed from heroin, but I needed something else...
It took me 6 years to finally put the pipe down. I now have one year clean!
When it was all said and done I not only had a mess, but a disaster. In those 6 years I did whatever it took looking for that same feeling I had in the Taco Bell parking lot. I lied, I stole, I gave up self respect and dignity. My days were filled with shame, guilt, misery and defeat.
The last time I took a hit I realized I wasn’t even getting high any more, but I couldn’t stop. I got to the place that there was no other choice than to admit that I was an addict and I hit rock bottom. Even Helen Keller could have noticed. What I didn’t realize was that as an addict I can take anything, even stuff that’s good, and pervert it. My new DOC: food.
I found myself using food the EXACT same way I used drugs. I would eat to numb. I ate because I was happy, sad and bored. I was a closet eater. I would eat fast food in my car alone and hide all evidence of it. Eat in the bathroom. It got so bad that I had to spray my food with dish soap before I threw it away so that I wouldn’t go back in the trash for it later. I had to admit that I was addicted to food before I could make the next step of doing something about it. That next step was this challenge. I could not cheat. One slip up could be my fall. This cannot be a diet. It has to be a lifestyle. The same way I cannot just do a diet from crack.
That’s not to say that I didn’t check the scale every day or body check. It’s biological to believe that external represents internal. I made good progress on the scale, but it pales in comparison to my progress mentally: I am strong I am persistent I am capable I am more than my feelings I am more than my cravings Instant gratification is truly only gratifying for an instant. I have come to realize that there’s nothing at the end of the pipe, nothing at the bottom of a plate, nothing in the shopping cart that is going to make me feel better. In Buddhism there’s a belief that anything that can bring misery cannot bring true happiness: money can run out, relationships can fail, material things can break and food can kill you if used inappropriately.
"Happiness has to start within." Thank you Ryan.
From Ryan:
When I received this message I was taken back. To be in the position Ellie was in feels hopeless. Nothing left but sorrow followed by a rock bottom moment. I was pulled right back to my battle with alcohol addiction many years ago. Remember you never know what someone is fighting.
What Ellie found in that moment is that no matter how hard things get, you can explode out with the right mindset. I am so proud and honored to see what she's achieved. She's an inspiration and congrats to year one of the rest of her life.
This story puts things into perspective and I am so grateful for moments like this to inspire us all.
Keep rocking Ellie! <3
]]>Something magical happens when you take life by the reigns and decide you will form your own rules. To be a team player is to be a winner. Amanda has helped drive the winning team that is RE Fitness. When I see her posts I light up with a smile. I’m certain many others do as well. Amanda is going to accomplish many, many great things, and I cannot wait to be by her side as she does it.
From Amanda:
I have been with RE Fitness for a little over a month and a half and besides the weight loss, I have become a stronger person all around. RE Fitness has made that switch in my head turn on and has made me realize that I CAN be the person I envisioned in my mind for so long. With the killer workouts, nutritional help from Ryan, and the RE Fitness Challenge Team always having my back, I was able to make that happen. The people in this Challenge Team have inspired me and motivated me more than anyone ever has in my life and that alone is so rewarding!!
Connect with Amanda | Facebook: facebook.com/amanda.mendez.37266136
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Daniel has overcome many things and in that process has become a true example of the power fitness can bring to your life. His approach of taking action has created many strong and reinforcing healthy habits. It goes to show the domino effect of making the right choices that will always propel you forward faster than anything else.
From Daniel:
A little over three years ago I was a pack a day cigarette smoker, drank often, wasn’t a healthy eater and honestly didn’t care about fitness. On my son's birthday three years ago I decided to make a lifestyle change. I quit smoking cigarettes and starting working out. I’ve been following RE Fitness for about two years. Then in July I decided to join my first challenge and it has taken my fitness to a whole new level.
Connect with Daniel | Instagram: @dashaffer720
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Strength. This is the first word that comes to mind when you see Rudy. Rudy has become a captain and leader in the challenge team. I look forward to his posts like I look forward to my coffee because it has the same effect. This is a guy who knows how to motivate, and I’ve witnessed him ignite a new fire- not only in himself but in others. #bossRudy
From Rudy:
I started my journey over two years ago. I tried heavy lifting and doing things my own way and it just wasn’t working. I also signed up for numerous fitness groups, but I was getting zero results.
I am so thankful to have come across Ryan Engel, who showed me I knew nothing about fitness. I remember Ryan saying, "It’s not gonna be easy, it won’t happen overnight, and you've got to put in a lot of work." No one wants to hear that ever but I was like "Why not? Sign me up."
Well, two challenges later and one 12 week plan later, I have lost around 26 pounds, gained 10 pounds of lean body mass, and also dropped my body fat by 8 percent. If you stick with this it truly works. I’m proof of that. My mom sees a huge difference and so does everyone around me . Not only has my body transformed but my confidence has greatly improved too. The best part however about this journey and finding RE Fitness has been the amazing people I have met in the group. I have gained teammates who are motivating and rooting each other along. We hold each other accountable. I’m better than yesterday and not nearly as good as I will be tomorrow. Making progress everyday. I am so ready to continue this fitness journey and the sky is the limit for me.
Connect with Rudy | Instagram: @Misplaced_texan26
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Robin is an experience. A personality and beauty that can never be ignored. She captivates you with her smile and has a way of always making you burst into laughter.
I’ve watched her become incredibly fit, both physically and mentally. Watch out, world…because this pretty lady is about to make some waves.
From Robin:
I had tried everything from diet pills to starving myself. Lost hope and gave up on myself. One day I came across RE fitness page and immediately fell in love with all of the motivation and positivity. After being in VIP for a few months I then came across an ad for an RE challenge. I was reluctant at first but thought, "What else do I have to lose at this point?" I was willing to try anything.
So I did! I have to say it was truly the best decision I have ever made! I have never seen results so quickly! After that I was addicted to the challenges. Couldn’t get enough of them. Not only have I lost weight, increased energy and stamina, but these amazing wildcard challenges within the challenge have made me come way out of my comfort zone. I have learned things about myself and found I actually have a lot of talent. I would have never thought all this possible if not for these challenges. Thank you so much Ryan. Your challenges are the holy grail!
Connect with Robin | Instagram: @bin_ebrahimi
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When this beautiful woman posts a video, everything stops. Her amazing smile is stunning and her mindset is inspiring. She has overcome so much and I am moved at just the sight of her. The definition of a strong and powerful woman.
From Wava:
When I “stumbled” upon RE fitness my mental health was at an all time low. I knew I couldn’t keep going fighting the inner battle of hating my body much longer. I also knew on the inside that my answer was out there and I had to keep going until I found it.
I have no doubt God directed me here to RE. The answer I’d been looking for is summed up in 3 things- a personalized plan from a professional (Ryan Engel), acceptance from others in the stage I was in (VIP and challenge groups), and ongoing support and accountability (my dear RE friends).
My weight has been all over from being 70 pounds overweight to being horribly underweight at 89 pounds. I believe I have found the balance here, physically and mentally which I could never achieve on my own.
I am forever grateful.
Connect with Wava | Instagram: Wava Raye
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A natural born leader and move-maker. I've had the pleasure of building multiple programs and taking this dominant athlete to the stage. His transformation is a complete showstopper.
A master of all things, he manages to train relentlessly while still being a devoted family man and business leader. I am proud to call this client a great friend as well.
From Izzy:
I started my journey on June 23rd, 2016. At the time I weighed 216 pounds, standing at 5’7” tall. Not really ideal for my height and body structure. The first 90 days, I lost 24 pounds and looked horrible. I lost mostly muscle mass due to starving myself with poor nutrition. For about 7 months I wandered aimlessly trying different things until I came across Ryan Engel's page on 4/12/2017. I saw all the amazing transformations from the March Madness challenge and said “I need this!”
Without hesitation, I jumped on the Summer Shred challenge in May and went from 190 pounds to 176 in 30 days while increasing my muscle mass! Since then I have been part of 5 challenges, and with each one have had new and great changes. Ryan also coached my for my first physique competition where I earned 2nd place in novice and 3rd place in open for my class.
Although he will never take the credit, I owe this man the world, simply because... he saved my life!!!!!
Connect with Izzy | Instagram: @Izzy_v2005
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Monica is a natural butterfly that I've had the honor to see grow and change in so many positive ways. She cultivates an air of confidence and pushes others through her day-to-day grind. I have no doubt Monica is on the road to greatness.
From Monica:
I had been watching in the background for some time, to see if this was worth even thinking about doing! Finally I thought, "Why not give it a try, I have spent money on worse in my life!"
Well, it was more than worth my money! RE Fitness has given me my life back! I've got my self-worth back, (which I am not sure I really ever had) and have gained friendships I truly appreciate! I have done a large part of my journey with other programs/diets, but I have found a true family with this amazing group! Along with HARD works, dedication, encouragement from all the members and my Family!
Ryan is fantastic. I never in my life thought he would ever pick me to be the second place winner in a challenge! CRAY CRAY! LOL
I thank everyone for playing apart in my push through for the July Challenge! I LOVE each and everyone of you!!!
Connect with Monica | Instagram: @queenqutie
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I can never see the word "champion" and not instantly think of Gaby. Her fitness prowess is evident in every way, including her washboard abs, but I can't begin to write this without mentioning her intellectual mastery.
Gaby has a way of motivating us on so many levels. You truly have to experience her for yourself. This leader is one I will take in my corner any day. #teamGaby
From Gaby:
I wasn't an athletic person...I never did any kind of workout in my life. I had eating disorders just because I wanted to look skinny. I came to RE Fitness because I wanted to learn how to eat healthy and change my body in the right way. Not in the way that I had been doing.. skipping meals or detoxing myself by not eating for a week. I knew I was wrong and because of that I hated the person who was in the mirror. I didn't like myself because I treated my body so badly just for appearance. It was the totally wrong mindset and I felt like crap because my family and kids don't deserve an unhealthy mom.
When I joined my first RE Fitness challenge my life started to change in many ways. My mentality was still changing and I wanted to prove to myself that I can change if I wanted to. And I wanted to change for a healthy life. Starting a 12week plan has helped me to keep changing and changing. I never quit. Nutrition was almost close to 100% the whole time because my desire to beat the old me was big.
I never thought I would win the May Summer Shred Challenge. I never won anything in my life and this recognition was the best thing that happened to me in my life. I discovered that fitness is my passion because of RE Fitness who gave me the tools to achieve my goals. I started to dream big when I decided to take my fitness journey to the next level and my dream came true joining a competition and having a dream body. I didn't win a medal, but a medal doesn't qualify me for all the hard work that I have done during the past months. I gained more than a medal- the discipline that I got for getting fit is the discipline I'll take everywhere as well as the strength I acquired is the strength I'll carry in my life. I beat the old me and that makes me a winner.
Connect with Gaby | Instagram: @Gabymiya
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Melissa is an absolute ray of sunshine. I have never met someone who is so positive.
True story- I almost killed her in Mexico on a dune buggy. We wrecked and though I was scared for my life, in that fleeting moment Melissa was still smiling.
An amazing transformation and person altogether, and I look forward to seeing not only her incredible posts daily but her amazing smile.
From Melissa:
I started in the March challenge not knowing what to expect. I was 192 pounds and just depressed . I am a single mom, and nurse during the day. I had never taken time to do something for me. From the moment I got connected in the group I felt the overwhelming love and support that I wasn’t completely alone. I saw numerous success stories and knew I wanted the same even if that meant giving up soda and the fast food lifestyle.
On my first RE fitness challenge I dropped a lot of weight and of course decided then to get a 12 week. I have continued the challenges and finished my 12 week, and I am down over 30 pounds and definitely lost inches. I was a size 16/14, now I can fit in a size 8.
I feel that even with my crazy schedule that has me feeling like I am pulled in every direction, I can make time and I keep remembering my why!! Now my kids try to keep up with me. I've started working on running and will do a 5k next month. New goals everyday. Love this group!!!
Connect with Melissa | Instagram: @Sunshinegal1980
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What an amazing transformation. It's truly jaw-dropping to see what Gary has achieved.
I strongly encourage reading what Gary has written. It's impossible to say it any better.
From Gary:
For years I’ve been going to the gym as I wanted to look good and feel strong as I aged, but could never figure out the proper way to achieve a goal of mine to lean down and actually see those infamous abs you would see on a fitness magazine. Luckily, I happened to run across a 31 day fitness challenge by Re Fitness on Facebook which seemed to be legit, and decided what the heck, let’s give it a try. I had no real expectations other than hoping to up my fitness level and learn more about proper nutrition.
To my surprise, with the guidance of Ryan Engel’s customized fat loss nutrition plan combined with High Intensity Interval Training & intermittent fasting, I was able to see an amazing transformation of my body in only 31 days which far exceeded by expectations.. It was not easy- you have to be motivated, disciplined and stick to your plan to see results. Having a group of people like the Re Family who want the same thing as you helps to hold you accountable & keeps you motivated….the group is amazing!
To all you middle-aged folks out there, it is possible to get into the best shape of your life even if you’re over 50yo like me! Yes, 50 & strong, and proud of it! This is the best my physique has looked in all my life, so it is possible and never too late to start. What a great feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment this has given me, not to mention a nice ego boost when I now go to the gym and have guys half my age asking my secret because I inspire them with my transformation.
Re Fitness is the real deal and well worth your investment in yourself and in your health!
Connect with Gary | FB: Gary Marchy
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Mel has been absolute force to reckon with! It's rare I see someone as motivated and supremely dedicated.
Many RE Challengers & friends have started their fitness journey solely by witnessing Mel's electric personality and vigor for incredible success!
We're are always looking forward to a Mel vid!!! #truemotivator
From Mel:
I’ve achieved a lot as I look back....
I found RE in Nov of 2017. Since then I’ve lost 55 lbs., I’ve gained confidence and I’ve also gained a family! I’ve transformed mentally and emotionally! I’ve struggled but I never quit!
Connect with Mel | Instagram: @Ercvt76
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It's an honor to have seen Doug become an incredible leader. I'll never forget what a high school coach drilled into me early on in life. "Ryan, being the best is never about yourself - it's about being the player that makes the whole team better."
Doug is a living example of this as even the tough days you can count on Doug with his motivation.
From Doug:
I feel like a new person thanks to my 12 Week Custom by Ryan Engel and the Challenges!
The support in this group and the challenge group is amazing.
Mentally and physically I am changing! I am a forever project but the best change is that I love who I am. I am no longer that guy that hates himself or is never good enough. I no longer want to be someone else.
I love who I am and will continue to be the best me. Investing in myself is the best thing I have ever done! I was my own road block!
RE Fitness has taught me that once you get your head right and get out of your own way anything is possible! Ryan provided the knowledge and the how. My Nutrition and workout plan was laid out for me, all I had to do is find my why and put in the work. It is not easy but its worth it! I am better today than yesterday and tomorrow I will be better than today! Fitness is absolutely more than just a physical change!
Connect with Doug | Instagram: @doug.wright.38
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