My journey with THRIVE began in June 2024 during the 6-Week Summer Shred program. I had a pretty lousy track record when it came to consistency, but with the stakes as high as a longterm free membership, I made the steadfast decision that I was GOING to win this challenge.
I knew the two most crucial factors in winning would be showing up to workouts, and eating right. I also knew that my body was better at gaining muscle than it was at losing fat, so I focused on using heavier weights in class and making sure I consumed enough protein each day.
Above all, my mindset had to shift in order to win. I took this challenge seriously, and every decision I made about what I ate and how I worked out would determine whether I won or lost. I knew there would be sacrifices (like the sugary, creamy coffees I love so much) and that I had to put in real effort (like waking up early for the 7am class because there was no other time in my schedule). But in reality, 6 weeks wasn’t that long. I could do this.
SHOWING UP
I attended 4-5 classes a week. Which wasn’t easy. I hated waking up early to get to class, but I knew if I didn’t, I would lose. The great thing about just showing up is that once I walked through the door, I didn’t have to think or plan anything. The expert team at THRIVE had every workout scheduled, and they kept an eye on me to make sure I made the most of my time without aggravating any injuries. I loved the class format and how workouts were different every day.
What surprised me the most was how much I loved working out with the other members. It didn’t take long to feel included within the THRIVE community. Everyone was so positive and encouraging when they didn’t even need to be. That energy was something I wanted to be around, which made it easier to keep showing up.
EATING RIGHT
I immediately took advantage of the free consult with THRIVE’s Registered Dietitian, Whitney. One conversation with her was so incredibly valuable, and she was great about checking in with me and answering questions along the way.
I used MyFitnessPal to track my meals and count macros, making sure I consumed 100-120g of protein and at least 64oz of water each day. I kept calories to net 1500/day or less.
I drank coconut water on my way to the gym in the morning, and a protein shake with creatine on my way home. I also ate a lot of salmon, hardboiled eggs, sourdough avocado toast, raw nuts, blackberries, seeds, mixed green salads, chickpeas, clean protein bars, quinoa, and multicolored vegetables.
By the end of 6 weeks, I had lost 8 lbs, gained 2% muscle, and lost 2% fat. But I had also found an amazing community that literally cheered for me when I won, and a gym that actually worked for me. (Veronika Reinert)
