Brandon Russell - A 360° Fit Success Story

• What motivated you to make changes?

  My wife is a runner, and throughout our entire marriage we have tried to run together. I never lost any serious weight and had concluded that I would just be a fat guy that runs. The CLEARLINK weight loss contest of 2008-09 required a financial commitment of $350 dollars. Being someone that doesn't like to give away money, initially I found myself really motivated by the thought of losing money. Eventually the motivation of just being healthier for my family and me superseded the financial commitment.

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  What changes physically/mentally/emotionally have you noticed?

  I have a lot more energy and I actively seek out physical activities that are challenging. I don't feel so "blah" when it comes to my mental state. I honestly feel that my brain is clicking at a higher rate, even if it is not. This might sound cliché, but emotionally I feel a lot more confident. I don't feel like my appearance is aligned with the stereotypical male that is 32, married for 10 years, and has three kids.

  What are you doing for your exercise and nutrition program?

  I work out five days a week interchanging between running, soccer, basketball, the elliptical, and P90X. This might sound crazy, but running is the exercise I enjoy the most. I have to force myself to do the other activities for the sake of promoting muscle confusion. I have ran 2 marathons, multiple half marathons, 10Ks, and a lot of 5Ks because I get so caught up in setting personal time records. Food is still my weakness, especially anything that includes ice cream and chocolate.

• I just try to keep my portion sizes realistic and not eat late at night. I can now tell when I overeat so I try to adjust down the next day to make up for my indulgence.

  How did the Corporate Wellness Program help you?

  Peer pressure was critical to my success. I really enjoy my co-workers, but there are a few people I don't want to lose to. The program now helps me continue to set goals and keep my health a priority. My health coach and I set a goal to run three half marathons this year, and I already have one under my belt. It really helps each month to have a conversation about healthy living. I always walk away feeling rededicated to a healthy lifestyle.