Member Q&A with Stephen

Say hello to Stephen – one of our most committed and enthusiastic members. 

After overcoming his initial fear of not being fit enough, and finding a style of training that he loves (that's us 😉), Stephen has completely overhauled his sedentary lifestyle – and now spends lots of his free time going on awesome fitness adventures. 

Can you tell us more about your health and fitness journey - where you were and where you are now?

My health and fitness journey has been a transformative experience. I started from a point where I wasn't prioritising my well-being or mental health, and over time, I've adopted a more balanced lifestyle, incorporating regular exercise, mindful eating, and stress management. When we arrived back in NZ in 2017, I was 122kg and living a very sedentary lifestyle. At the start of 2024, I was down to 103kgs, going to the gym 3 days a week and running 2 days per week, while doing some type of event each month.

Before joining Ascend Fit, what made you hesitant or scared about joining a gym?

Before joining Ascend Fit, I was hesitant because I felt self-conscious about my fitness level.

How did you overcome those fears?

I realized that everyone starts somewhere, and the gym is a place for personal growth. So, I focus on my own progress rather than comparing myself to others.

What advice would you give to people who might be battling with the same fears?

My advice to anyone facing fears is to start small, set realistic goals, and focus on personal progress rather than comparing yourself to others.

What does being healthy mean to you?

Being healthy to me means achieving a balance between physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It's about feeling strong, confident, energetic, and content.

What motivates you to work on your health and fitness?

My motivation is to live a fulfilling life, both now and in the long term. I want to have the energy to pursue my passions, reduce the risk of health issues, and simply feel good in my own skin. This year, I want to compete in 4 OCR events, some trail running events, and maybe a Hyrox.

What’s been your proudest accomplishment so far on your health and fitness journey?

My proudest accomplishment so far has been consistently sticking to a workout routine and making healthier lifestyle choices – while working on my weaknesses.

Do you have any goals you’re working towards right now?

Right now, I'm working towards improving my strength and flexibility. Setting specific, measurable goals helps me stay focused and motivated, it has become part of my every day.

How has Ascend Fit helped you on your health and fitness journey?

Ascend Fit has played a crucial role in my journey by providing a supportive community, professional guidance, and a variety of fitness options. The structured programming and knowledgeable trainers have contributed significantly to my progress.

What keeps you committed to your health and fitness?

What gets me out of bed every day is the understanding that investing in my health is an investment in my overall quality of life. Knowing that every effort counts and seeing positive changes in my body and mindset keeps me committed to my health and fitness journey. Consistency is key, and having a routine that I enjoy makes it easier to stay committed. Additionally, seeing and feeling the positive changes reinforces my dedication to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.