I got Pat’s name from an old friend that I had run into during the holidays, at the end of 2007. Like me, he always “battled the bulge “. I was staring at 50 years old – overweight (5’ 10”, 301 lbs.), out of shape, and truly concerned that I would not be able to continue with my business, or enjoy the latter years with my family and friends. I was not going to make it! On January 7, 2008 that all changed. I met Pat and I signed on to take my body back. Now, don’t get me wrong, I had tried a lot of different “diets” in my 49 years. I was successful sometimes, but always gained more weight back when I could not stay with the “program”. I fell into a big rut. The energy and chemistry I felt when we met compelled me to give it a try. I’ll have to admit, the first few weeks were a major adjustment in my life. But I was committed to becoming fit. I did not want to just lose weight. I WANTED TO BE FIT!
Almost a year and a half later, I was competing in my first sprint triathlon! Sixteen months ago cutting the grass, trimming the weeds, and blowing the grass off the sidewalks was a triathlon. After that, I was done for the day. Today I am still 5’ 10”, but that is the only statistic that is the same. I weigh 220lbs. My body fat is 10% – I started at 30%. So, I didn’t just lose “weight”, I BURNED THE FAT OFF MY BODY. I’ve learned from Pat how to keep my lean body tissue (muscle) intact while shedding that killer fat. I’ve taken ten inches off my waistline. I was taking four meds for blood pressure and cholesterol, now I’m on one- soon to be off. I use a breathing apparatus (cpap) for my sleep apnea and will be off that soon as well. I go to the gym, swim, bike and run regularly. My energy level is amazing. And, now when I put on a pair of jeans, they slide on. YEE HAA!! I eat clean as much as possible, but still go to great restaurants and enjoy great wine with my wife Robin, who’s now following our plan to get healthy and stay fit.
The best part of what I have learned from Pat is that I can and will follow his plan-now my plan too, for the rest of my life. The changes I made required discipline and planning, but now it’s routine. My food is delicious, because I make it that way. And I get to eat all day long. People ask me all the time – “how are you getting more fit every time I see you, you’re always eating something!?” But, unless they are really ready, they don’t listen to my answer. Oh, and by the way, every time I hear that, I’m good for another 20 miles on the bike. I’ve always believed that to be successful at something follow someone who’s already there. Imitation is certainly the most sincere form of flattery. With Pat’s help, I’m a new man. It’s the best example I can set for my family. Along with being my mentor and coach, Pat Grieco has become a good friend. Even with his busy schedule, he’s there for me. We never know where life will take us. I’m grateful that life took me to Pat’s door. Being fit for probably the first time in my life has resonated to every aspect of me. It’s the balance in my life that eluded me for so long.