Long time KnuckleUp member Karen Brier is moving to awe-inspiring vistas of Lake Tahoe for work and leaving us behind (color us jealous!). But, before she heads west, Karen agreed to sit down for some face time about the highlights of her time at KnuckleUp:
CJ: What initially brought you to KnuckleUp?
KB: I was about a month out from weight loss surgery and determined to ‘do it the right way,’ which for me meant getting more active. I set a goal for myself to try a new sport every month until I ran out of sports. It’s 18 months later and I still haven’t run out! A friend from work suggested I come to KnuckleUp Fitness, so kickboxing was one of the first things I tried. The ‘old Karen’ would never have considered it. I wanted to get out of my comfort zone in front of the table or the TV and get seriously physical.
CJ: Why did you choose KU over its competitors to help you lose the weight?
KB: Let me count the reasons: Stephen, Phillip, Moe, Gui, you. Face it, for me, a gym is just about a gym. But KU is the place where they know my name and care about what I’m doing and how I’m doing. I think everyone was just about as happy or me as I was.
CJ: How much weight have you lost since joining KU?
KB: Over 100 pounds.
CJ: How did KU help you achieve that level of weight loss?
KB: Kickboxing classes really helped, but it was the Biggest Loser challenges and the bootcamps with Stephen that really got me into high gear. I got lean and healthy – I’m not one of those people who look all pale and flabby after weight loss.
CJ: Did you have any initial fears about losing the weight with KU?
KB: I wasn’t sure I could do it. I was worried I would fail or that I would look like an idiot. I hate being embarrassed.
CJ: How do you feel about those initial fears now?
KB: They were a waste of my time and breath. No one cares what I look like or what I’m wearing at KU. They just care that I was trying my hardest and sweating my guts out like everyone else.
CJ: What are some of your favorite moments with KU on your weight loss journey?
KB: Stephen’s bootcamps by far! Winning 3rd place in the Biggest Loser Challenge was pretty wonderful too. Phillip’s 6:30 a.m. classes – but mainly cause he’s so cute.
CJ: What would you say about KU to someone who wants to lose weight?
KB: DO IT!! Do it now. And, do yourself a favor and sign up for the great 3-year deal – you’ll never be sorry. You’ll only be sorry if you don’t give it your all to be the most amazing athlete you can be. And, frankly, three years ago I would have never thought I’d call myself an athlete.
CJ: Why would you recommend KU to someone who wants to lose weight?
KB: You won’t be alone. You won’t be bored. You won’t fail.
CJ: What will you miss most about KU now that you’re moving out of state?
KB: Knowing that if I fall off the wagon, the team will be there and ready to give me a hand back up and on track. I’m going to come by and visit whenever I’m in town! Is there a KU in Lake Tahoe? If not, why not?!
There you have it, folks. A weight loss story from a real live KnuckleUp member that is as awe-inspiring as Lake Tahoe itself. Thanks for sharing Karen! We’ll miss you, and safe travels!