In 2015, I weighed almost 300 pounds, struggled with addiction, and lacked a trajectory. For some, “what do you want to be when you grow up?” is much easier to answer. And for the rest of us, it takes a while. I was able to turn my struggles into my strengths. I want to help you start consciously choosing to be happier and healthier with little changes daily, that amount to major change. It’s taken me nearly a decade, and I wish I would have started sooner.
Life in the early years-
I grew up living an active life. We were always camping, moving cattle, snowmobiling, or exploring the outdoors. My parents always wanted us involved, and active. We participated in 4-H and FFA, we helped out on the ranch, and we went to school. A pretty average childhood. And like most people I dealt with a lot of self confidence issues, mainly stemming from my weight. I was a heavier kid growing up, as was my dad. My family has some pretty big guys in it, so I am predisposed like most people in the US to obesity and other health related issues. This made it hard for me to make friends, be involved with school activities, and hindered my motivation.
In 2013 I graduated high school, and went to Colorado Mesa University to study biology. I changed my degree a few times, and couldn’t figure out what I wanted to do. However, I had decided that partying and making friends was more important at the time. I began to make a series of poor choices that would lead to me transferring to West Texas A&M University to study marketing and political science ( I should add an important event, my shoulder surgery in 2015). When I moved to Texas I was 287.8 pounds. I will never forget the embarrassment, I was 23 years old. I had sleep apnea and used a CPAP, I was on high blood pressure medication, and I was struggling with addiction. I joined a CrossFit gym shortly after moving and to this day it is my favorite gym, my gym home, and the place I started learning to love myself (a life-long pursuit). The coaches there were open minded, and so eager to help educate me. They knew the importance of physical and mental health, and taking care of yourself. I went to the 8am “Mommy” class with most of the parents before they went to work. A physician, biochemist, a psychology student, and an incredible coach helped me change my life. I lost over 150 pounds from my heaviest to my lightest. I began to blossom, and when life challenged me I was ready.
Transformative Change in Life-
My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018, and I moved to Denver so I could be closer to her while she was going through treatment. While my mom was strong and battling cancer I learned the importance of health for the long haul. During this time I was hired on at a corporate gym in Cherry Creek, and was able to truly be exposed to the fitness industry for the first time in my life. I learned that fitness is different for everyone, and what works for me might not work for you. This environment was instrumental in shaping my love for the human body, and helping people live healthier lives.
In 2022 my father was diagnosed with advanced cancer, and began radiation. This was a shock on the coattail of my moms diagnosis. Another huge realization of morbidity, I started to struggle with my emotions again as I watched my dad fight cancer. This inspired me to get into yoga as a form of mental health release. It was around this time I was offered an internal scholarship for my NASM certification. At the time I hadn’t began to think about future careers, so I went for it. I became a NASM-CPT and started learning about personal training and was it a steep curve. I had NO idea what I was doing, until one day I did. Like anything, it just takes practice, repetition, and consistency.
Last year, my father unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. This shattered my world. I left my corporate job, moved home and tried to figure out life. I didn’t know how easily everything could change. Everything I was sure of was changed. I continued to believe my calling was to help people find their way to a happier and healthier life, so I began Lehmann Training Co. I want to be able to make the decisions about my business the way I want, and serve my clients how I want to. With Lehmann Training Co., I aim to help people find their confidence and prioritize their health and happiness. By making education about the human body more accessible, I want to guide others on their journey of growth, both mentally and physically. The gym is not just a place to work out—it’s a space for self-discovery, and I want to inspire curiosity and exploration in every client I work with.
Next Steps and the Future-
I met an amazing man and moved back to Grand Junction. I enrolled in Colorado Mesa University again to pursue my degree in Exercise Science and Business Administration. Although life changes, and I sit here healing my broken heart, I am excited to be learning more about the human body, mental health, health advocacy and helping my clients. With Lehmann Training Co I want to help connect people to their confidence, and encourage them to make the conscious choice to choose their health and happiness. I am a full time student, and I work for a nonprofit health education center. I have dedicated my life to helping people become healthier in hopes of families not having to experiencing what mine went through. I want to make education about the human body more accessible and digestible to everyone. I believe that the gym is a space for growth and self development. I want to help encourage people to be curious and explore their bodies and minds.
The only two constants in life are change, and you. By learning more about your body and your mental health, you can lead not only a better life, but a happier one. I’m excited to share my journey and help you make small, impactful changes in your own life. None of us are perfect, but showing up for yourself every day leads to real change. Bet on yourself today. Whether it’s hiring a personal trainer to help guide you or simply starting a new routine, remember: someday is today, and tomorrow is not guaranteed.
Comments