-29 LBS (20 WEEKS)

ONLINE NUTRITIONAL COACHING

I was looking for a plan that was sustainable, but also realistic. I've done all sorts of plans/programs where great fat loss occurs, but the long term trajectory isn't sustainable. I had recently gained a large amount of weight after a broken bone and just felt very out of control in my own body. I coped during that time by indulging with food. I weighed more than ever and felt lost on how to create healthy, long term change. I've always loved food and have been able to eat fairly freely and move to keep everything in balance. However, as I've gotten into my 30s I noticed things aren't as they once were. I also wanted the opportunity to analyze my own relationship with food. I realize that it is a privilege to be able to take that time and look at how and why I do what I do. Marcus' program felt like a great way to invest in myself.

I had heard from several friends who did the program. They found great success and enjoyed the process.

We looked at my life holistically. We changed my thoughts on certain food groups and I realized how a lack of protein, front loaded and managed throughout the day, led to binging on not good options later into the evening. I learned to listen to my body and recognize signs of hunger vs a desire to fill a void. I learned the power of movement through walking. I did not appreciate walking prior to this program. To me movement had been lots of heavy weights resulting often in injury or fatigue from rigorous programs. Walking brought an hour a day where I found peace. It allowed me time to connect with friends; a great way to connect is to invite someone on a walk. I got to see new spaces in my city and reconnect with nature. We focused a lot on my digestion and noticing how my body was responding to certain foods. Within that, noticing foods that trigger bloating/unfavourable digestion responses. We also focused on sleep which truthfully is something I enjoy, but do not often prioritize. This program gave me permission to rest.

Weight loss for me, truthfully, was the initial goal. However, the biggest result was internal. I addressed some challenging narratives I've held with what I perceive health and wellness to be. Secondly, the biggest result was a complete shift in how I structure my meals. Looking at what I ate prior and how "healthy" I thought it was, I now understand what will fill me up and what balance actually looks like. I can eat fat and carbs in a balanced way. When I focus on good protein intake I am satiated and reaching less for things to snack on throughout the day. My meal prep and meals, prior, were ridiculously elaborate coupled with being calorically dense. I've really started enjoying simple meals with whole foods. It's also saved a massive amount of time in my week. Finally, I'm not going to lie that fitting into and finding some of my clothes being too big has been pretty great too!

I liked that Marcus was honest. He was diplomatic and factual. There is a cause and effect to everything we do. I appreciated the regular check ins and the accountability, for me, definitely made the biggest impact. My favourite line is we can have it all, but we can't have it all at the same time. So figuring out what I really wanted and how I wanted to feel was powerful. I could satisfy a short term craving, but needed to be aware of long term impacts. I also really enjoyed the podcasts. This is an additional layer of knowledge and explanation.

I wouldn’t change anything about Marcus’ coaching or program. I think if you'd asked me that during certain weeks, I'd have had more to say. However, those frustrations weren't with Marcus. When you are creating change there has to be growth and acknowledgement of certain habits. Our behaviours serves to meet our needs. However, sometimes we are serving wants as opposed to needs. Our minds want to minimize cognitive dissonance so I could sometimes fall into the trap of placing blame on external factors. Ultimately, I'm in charge of me and my decisions; therefore, there were growing pains internally when creating this change. Additionally, some weeks I lost more than others, that happens so recognizing that the number on the scale isn't the only tell factor in change.

I'd like the program to continue forever! Financially, if I could, I would work with Marcus forever.

Best decision and investment for personal growth I've ever made.

I was super suspicious at first and toyed with the program for months. If anyone is unsure, ask Marcus for my contact number and I'll talk you through it!