Challenge Update – 2 Months Later: Aaron Copeland

Recently, Aaron began to realize that he has gradually made compromises in the quality of his food choices. The exception had become more often the rule. “I was creating my own plateau,” says Aaron. “My exercise has been consistent and of high quality and intensity. However, I was holding around 275 pound.s” Since the start of the Challenge, Aaron has lot 35 pounds and 31 inches but is working on moving that needle further.*

For the last three weeks he has been using an old fashioned Stairmaster Stepmill for his cardio. He does three, five-minute sessions of speed intervals, which amounts to approximately 29 flights of stairs per five minute session. “Three of those and even my knuckles are sweating!”

“This week I’ve been refocusing my diet and being intentional about food selection,” Aaron concludes. “I’m getting back to the rules I know and am excited about the changes I’ll continue to see!”

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

Aaron Copeland is an independent sales Associate of Mannatech, Incorporated

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Challenge Update – 2 Months Later: Lois Gresiuk

Lois can commiserate with the struggles in life that Marlene refers to, but like Marlene, is persevering by staying on track with her healthy eating and exercise habits.

“It’s been a long time since I’ve carved my initials in a pan of brownies,” jokes Lois. “I did hit a plateau for a few weeks but I’ve recently begun to lose inches again.”  Lois has been doing a lot of yard work lately, which Ashly agrees can be just as good for you as a workout.  “Hard labor with your hands in the dirt can be a good way to clear your head and still burn calories on those days when you just can’t seem to face the gym or your regular exercise routine,” says Ashly.

Like Kim, Lois has also begun jogging recently and is enjoying an activity she hasn’t really done since her youth.  With 21 total inches lost, three of those since our last check-in with Lois, it’s clear that the exercise is paying off.*

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

Lois Gresiuk is an independent sales Associate of Mannatech, Incorporated

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Challenge Update – 2 Months Later: Marlene Copeland

Historically, Marlene has allowed the challenges that life often presents to sidetrack her fitness goals, but she’s happy to say that is no longer the case.  “I’ve been struggling with some other things outside of the OsoLean Challenge and when usually I would have given up, this time I haven’t.  If anything, I’m doing better than before and looking for ways to do more.”  Marlene is approaching healthy eating with renewed vigor, including more raw vegetables and nutritious snacks in her diet.

Since the start of the Challenge, Marlene has lost 23 pounds and 32.5 inches.*

“I feel like I’m in a whole new phase of the journey because I’m not sure that I’ve ever been in this place, mentally. You can know how to do everything that is right, but to put everything together mentally takes some work,” concludes Marlene.

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

Marlene Copeland  is an independent sales Associate of Mannatech, Incorporated

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Challenge Update – 2 Months Later: Ron Copeland

Ron realizes that the path to a leaner body does not follow a direct point-A-to-point-B course but is a journey with multiple stops along the way. “If I stop being unfaithful to the program, even for a day or two, it makes it that much easier to backslide into old habits and stop moving forward,” explains Ron. “Taking the OsoLean powder is the easy part; it’s the other things life throws at you that can be difficult.”

 Having lost 42 pounds and 37 inches, Ron is at the lowest weight he’s been in 18 years.* “I’m very proud of where I’ve come from,” he concludes. 

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

Ron Copeland is an independent sales Associate of Mannatech, Incorporated

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Challenge Update – 2 Months Later: Kim Finley

Two months after the conclusion of the Challenge, Kim is still working hard (and succeeding!) at maintaining the 34 pounds and 60 inches she’s lost since the OsoLean Challenge team started this journey way back in January!*

Part of what’s keeping her going these days is jogging “for real,” and not on a treadmill.

“It’s amazing how much more pain is involved when you’re actually out there pounding the pavement and not just walking on a treadmill!” Kim says.  “My thighs have been killing me, but I can definitely see more of a physical difference.”

Kim is still working at keeping a positive mindset and staying committed to the changes she’s made in her life because the results she’s seen have been worth it!

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

Kim Finley is an independent sales Associate of Mannatech, Incorporated

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Challenge Update – 1 Month Later: Ron Copeland

Like many of us, Ron has a busy work schedule that often includes travel. After the conclusion of the Challenge, he was experiencing a bit of a plateau. A review of his food diary with Ashly revealed on-the-road lunches to be the culprit.

“It’s harder to make good choices when you’re on the road,” explains Ron. “If you haven’t taken the time to pack a lunch it’s easy to slip up. My problem was not setting aside time specifically for lunch. You have to build it into your day, otherwise you’ll be zipping through a drive-through and wolfing the food down on the way to your next meeting.”

In addition to Ashly’s workouts, Ron has been putting the new elliptical machine he and Marlene recently purchased to good use. It’s Ron’s favorite exercise of the day.

Ron Copeland is an independent sales Associate of Mannatech, Incorporated

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Challenge Update -1 Month Later: Marlene Copeland

“I was having knee trouble, which slowed me down for a while, but after a visit to the doctor I feel like I’m finally getting unstuck,” says Marlene.

A friend looking to experience success similar to what she saw in Marlene is partly to thank for keeping Marlene moving forward.

“I have a friend who noticed the changes in me and asked if I could help her. She’s got to be ten years younger than me at least and when I described to her some of the exercises that Ashly taught us, she was in disbelief; ‘There’s no way I can do that!’ But, I explained to her that during the Challenge I’ve learned we can do a lot more than we think we can.”

While Marlene’s inches lost leveled out following the end of the Challenge, she’s remained faithful to the program including taking her OsoLean powder, eating right and exercising when possible. “Helping my friend out is a lot of responsibility but it’s going to be a big motivator because I will have someone depending upon me to get them in shape,” says Marlene. “Now I’ll know how Ashly feels!”

Marlene Copeland is an independent sales Associate of Mannatech, Incorporated

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Challenge Update – 1 Month Later:Kim Finley

“For the first time in a very long time, I worked out at an actual gym,” says Kim.

“It was only for five days as a guest at a friend’s gym, but I really liked it! Seeing all the other gym members working out brought out my competitive side and made me want to work harder. I was almost sold on the idea of joining. Then I went home after the trial membership expired and did one of Ashly’s workouts and it kicked my butt! I was sore for days. So, while I see the benefits of joining a gym, I think I’ll stick with Ashly’s routines for now.”

Kim continues to see success in numbers, both on the scales and in her clothes. She’s lost a total of 60 inches and 34 pounds since the start of the Challenge; that’s 6 inches and 9 pounds in the last month.* However, Kim still struggles with seeing the “old me” when she looks in the mirror. “It’s something I’m working at. I may not recognize the changes as much as everyone else, but I’m accepting them. The numbers don’t lie!”

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.
Kim Finley is an independent sales Associate of Mannatech, Incorporated

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Challenge Update – 1 Month Later: Aaron Copeland

“The other day, I was waiting for some friends to arrive at the mall. I happened to be near a suit store so figured that I would kill some time trying on a few jackets. When they brought out the size I typically wear, it was huge! I ended up going down three sizes until I found one that fit. In the end I didn’t get the suit, but it felt good to know that I could fit into a smaller size now.”

It only makes sense that Aaron would need a smaller jacket size given that he’s lost another 4 inches and 5 pounds since the Challenge ended a little over a month ago. In total, that brings Aaron to 31 inches and 34 pounds lost!*

Aaron has become a creature of habit when it comes to the gym and was unpleasantly surprised to find it closed for several days during the Easter holiday in Mexico. In those instances where he can’t get to a gym, Aaron still relies on Ashly’s at-home workouts. “Consistency is still key for me,” says Aaron. “I make my workouts happen regardless of whether I can get to the gym or not.”

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.
Aaron Copeland is an independent sales Associate of Mannatech, Incorporated.

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Challenge Update – 1 Month Later: Lois Gresiuk

We decided to check in with a few of our 2011 OsoLean Challenge team members from time to time see how they’re holding up following the Challenge.  Have they managed to stick to their healthy eating and workout plans? Are they still losing fat or have they hit a plateau?  Let’s find out!

Lois Gresiuk

Always looking to keep herself motivated and build upon her success during the challenge, Lois recently took over leading her coworkers in Wednesday workouts.

  “We started out with one of Ashly’s abdominal workouts and for the next week all I heard from the girls at the office was complaints about their abs being sore,” said Lois. “I told them that’s just their abs inviting them to do more work!”

Since the end of the Challenge, Lois has lost 4 inches and an additional pound of weight, bringing her grand totals to 18.75 inches and 14 pounds lost.*

 “One of the things that I continue to struggle with is recognizing and honoring my success thus far. I always want more.  So, I’m learning that it’s important to define how you rate success and find out if that’s an accurate measurement or not.  Don’t hold yourself to unrealistic standards.”

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

 

Lois Gresiuk is an independent sales Associate of Mannatech, Incorporated.

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In Conclusion: Poni Altvater

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In Conclusion: Ron Copeland

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In Conclusion: Marlene Copeland

Total Pounds Lost: 19*

Total Inches Lost: 32.5*

Regarding approaching a weight loss program, Marlene says, “If it’s not a lifestyle change, it’s probably not going to work. What I mean is, you can’t just pick one aspect to improve, like your eating; you have to look at all aspects.  For me, one of the biggest pluses was having Ashly’s support as a trainer. By the end of the program, I was doing things physically that I don’t think I would have even attempted before.  Ashly brought a whole new dimension to the program.”

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

Marlene Copeland is an independent sales Associate of Mannatech, Incorporated.

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In Conclusion: Kim Finley

“The OsoLean Challenge helped me to realize that I had to stop living with excuses,” said Kim. “Regardless of how real they may be, they were just holding me back. I had to realize that I am worth taking the steps necessary to move forward and to never give up.”

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

Kim Finley is an independent sales Associate of Mannatech, Incorporated.

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In Conclusion: Lois Gresiuk

“The accountability that the OsoLean Challenge provided was really important for me,” said Lois. “I think I had as much success as I did because I always had someone to rely on—mainly Ashly, but also my teammates and the folks at Mannatech. I’m so thankful I got to participate in this Challenge. It’s really taught me a lot about myself and what I can do. I’m so excited about what the future holds!”

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

Lois Gresiuk is an independent sales Associate of Mannatech, Incorporated.

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In Conclusion: Aaron Copeland

Total Pounds Lost: 29*   Total Inches Lost: 27*

“One of my biggest takeaways was learning to really read food labels,” says Aaron. “Something can be presented as healthy without actually being good for you.  For example, I used to grab one of those pre-made meal replacement shakes on the way to or from the gym, thinking I was making a healthy choice.  But, if you read the label, it’s a different story.  Some of those shakes may have two or three servings and you can easily down 400 calories without even noticing. You have to be an educated consumer.”

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period. Aaron Copeland is an independent sales Associate of Mannatech, Incorporated.

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Challenge Conclusion

Like all good things, the 2011 OsoLean Challenge has come to an end.  The last crunch has been crunched, the last inch measured and the bit of OsoLean powder scooped from the bottom of the canister.  Actually, we should be clearer.  That list of “lasts” only applies within the bounds of the Challenge, because if there’s one thing we’re sure of, it’s that all of our team members plan to carry on the healthy lifestyle habits that they learned during the Challenge for the rest of their lives.

It wasn’t always easy and it wasn’t always fun, but what we have heard unanimously from our Challenge team is that it was certainly worth it.  We’ve very much enjoyed getting to know this great group of people over the last three months and thanks to their openness, we feel like we’ve been able to share in their incredible journey every step of the way.

Until next time…..let’s check in with some of our Team members.

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Ashly’s Trainer Tip #10: Consistency

Consistency is the most important key to achieving your fitness goals.  Fad diets and exercise gadgets that promise a “quick fix” do not promote consistency.  Show up for your workout, eat a balanced diet that includes OsoLean® powder and you will reach you goal!

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Challenge Update: The Home Stretch

As we approach the final stretch of the Challenge, we’re checking in once more with our team members to see how far they’ve come, how they feel now that their three months are coming to a close, and what they have planned for their futures.  We’ll have one more wrap-up post in a couple of weeks that provides everyone’s pounds and inches lost, so be sure to check back with us for that.  And now, let’s see how the team’s doing!

Marlene

“I’m really glad to have been a part of the OsoLean Challenge because I feel like I was in a place where I  couldn’t quite turn things around like I could when I was younger,” says Marlene. “I needed something extra.”  Nineteen pounds lighter and 32 inches smaller, Marlene seems to have found that “something extra.”*

Having worked with the other members of the Challenge team, and especially Ashly, for the last three months, Marlene feels like it’s opened her mind to a new way of thinking about her health and fitness—beyond dieting.  “I’ve adopted what I’ve learned during the Challenge as a lifestyle. It’s how I plan to live from here on out and that’s a place I’ve never been able to get to before.”

Ron

Down 35 pounds and 30 inches, Ron is viewing what he’ s learned during the Challenge as a life choice: “I need to eat for my health and not out of habit; it’s a way of life.”*  Ron describes an example of this lifestyle change recently at MannaFest℠ 2011.  “Marlene, Aaron and I went down to the gym in our hotel twice and worked out.  Usually, we would have used any down time at events like this to rest up—maybe take a nap or watch some television.  This time, even though we were tired, we made a concerted effort to get to the gym and we were very proud of that.”

 “Working with Ashly has been a great experience,” says Ron, “because she tailors the workout for our needs and then adds more and more challenges.  Some of these things I thought I’d never be able to do and some I’m still working on, but I feel like I’ve accomplished a lot.”

Aaron

Aaron was lucky enough to return to the states from Mexico to attend MannaFest℠ and to spend a week with his family and friends back in Arkansas.  Those two weeks out of his normal routine got his workouts off track a bit, but he’s still lost over 30 pounds since the start of the Challenge and is plowing ahead.*

“I have seen a significant, noticeable change in a relatively quick period of time, so I’m very pleased,” says Aaron.  “Looking back, three months comes and goes so quickly. So often we keep doing the same things we’ve always done out of habit and we use up another month or three months or a year without knowing where the time has gone. I’d rather have something to show for it—to look back and see improvements that I made happen.”

Joelnell

Some women dream of buying a whole new wardrobe.  Joelnell, who has lost 35 pounds, is discovering the reality of that dream isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.*  “It’s frustrating!” she says.  “My body has changed so much that the sizes that used to fit me, don’t.  That’s a good thing, but it makes shopping more difficult.  I can’t just walk into a store and pick up a pair of pants, knowing that will fit.  I have to try everything on now!”

The last month of the Challenge has been hardest for Joelnell as she has been barraged with work responsibilities, her son’s school projects, her own classes and personal life.  “During finals week there were a couple of times where I felt like breaking down,” says Joelnell.  “That’s what I feel is the hardest part; not starting out, but keeping yourself going.  You can be doing really well and then hit a plateau and burn out.  If I could give one piece of advice, it would be to set reasonable goals and to not take on more than you can handle.  Look at your priorities and figure out what can be pushed down the list and realize that sometimes, you’ll just have to let things go in order to make time for yourself.”

Kim

As Kim says, “I didn’t lose the weight, I threw it away!”  Twenty-five pounds and 49 ½ inches so far, to be exact.*   Kim was able to get rid of several clothes that had become too baggy and didn’t fit, but she’s holding off on buying a new wardrobe .  “I’m not done, yet!  I bought a few new items out of necessity, but I’ve not reached my final goal. There’s no going back, because I don’t have any clothes to grow back into!”

Kim plans to continue her workouts and has even enlisted the help of her husband with strength training.  “I’ve learned a lot about myself and that I’m worth it,” says Kim.  “No more excuses.  I’m going to live every day to the fullest and not worry about every little thing.  If I take care of myself, God will take care of the rest.” 

Lois

The Challenge has been “wonderfully successful” for Lois in many ways, the least of which is the 16 pounds she’s lost so far.*  She’s also down two pant sizes, is a smarter consumer of food and has a more positive outlook on life in general.  “I think if you asked my kids, they’d say I’m more pleasant to be around,” laughs Lois.

“I’m most proud of my increased ability to work out,” says Lois. “I’ve been able to do things I never thought I’d be able to do.  As soon as the weather warms up and the snow melts off, I plan on getting outside more and walking, in addition to continuing the workouts that Ashly designed for us.  I will really miss the accountability that Ashly provided.”  Fortunately, a member of Lois’ upline has agreed to help out Lois as an accountability partner and provide support in her continuing fitness goals.

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

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MannaFest Round-Up

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Ashly’s Trainer Tip #9: Write it Down!

The most successful way to change eating behaviors is to keep a food journal.  Write down every food that goes into your mouth.  If you choose to write it in a notebook, follow this format:

• Time you ate
• What you ate
• Quantity you ate
• Did it feed muscle or fat?
• How you feel afterwards? (i.e. full of energy, sluggish, bloated, etc.)

Reflect on your food journal at the end of the week and see what changes can be made easily.  The fun thing about this strategy is that no one is telling you what to eat or what not to eat except your own body. That will make a much larger impact on your long term success.

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Ashly’s Trainer Tip #8: Variety!

Get the most out of your workout by making these changes to your current program:

1. Be unstable: When doing exercises, try standing on one foot or use a balance board, balance disk or exercise ball. Forcing your body to maintain balance engages whole muscle groups and amplifies your workout.

2. Add resistance: Use your body weight, add dumbbells or elastic resistance bands to your exercise routine to increase exertion.

3. Use intervals: Alternate between different short bursts of activity.  For example, do 30 seconds of body squats followed by 30 seconds of jumping jacks. Repeat this set 3 times with a 10-second break between exercises.  Take a 2 minute break before beginning the next set of interval exercises.

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Challenge Update: Jin Park

Jin Park

After initial success, Jin’s weight loss has leveled out some and a conversation with Ashly revealed that almonds may be partly to blame!  While almonds and many nuts are healthy, they are only so in the right portions.  At 100 almonds a day, Jin had been getting too much of a good thing!  Ashly advises that nuts should not be eaten on an everyday basis and when they are eaten, it should be no more than a single serving of 15 almonds.  She suggests alternating nuts with seeds to provide balance.  

Jin has continued to take his OsoLean powder regularly and is working out as often as possible.  With continued guidance from Ashly and his own hard work and determination, we hope to hear about great results from Jin!

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

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Challenge Update: Joelnell Hawkins & Dane Luvaas

Joelnell Hawkins

So far Joelnell has lost 28 pounds but she’s waiting until the end of February to measure her inches lost.* She set a target weight that she wants to reach by the end of February and as of her last weigh-in is very close. Ashly has been helping Joelnell focus on controlling her portions and monitoring her carb intake and says she’s doing very well with remaining active during the day, even when she doesn’t get to work out. We’re looking forward to hearing from Joelnell soon and reporting on her success!

Dane Luvaas

After a few setbacks early on in the Challenge including a nasty cold and some serious soreness from Ashly’s workouts, Dane says he’s back on the horse.  “I’ve added bananas into some of my drinks in an attempt to up my potassium levels and combat cramping as I get my muscles whipped back into life.”

Dane has been mixing OsoLean powder with EM∙PACT® drink mix which he feels helps him more quickly recover after a workout.†  Regarding Ashly’s workouts, Dane says, “I have to take some of the exercises a little slower since I feel like I lost the momentum that I had going before, but overall I’m getting a good burn and sweat going again.”

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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Challenge Update: The Copelands

Ron Copeland 

One of the biggest challenges that Ron has learned to overcome is temptation.  He provides us with an example of a recent shopping trip to WalMart to buy groceries.  He and Marlene were still at home, out of the essentials and very hungry.  They were faced with the option of either putting together a meal with what they had available or heading out the door and facing the lure of “burger row” or reckless grocery shopping. “Marlene piped up and said it would be smarter for us to eat first at home so we wouldn’t be tempted and possibly make a bad decision while we were out,” says Ron. “Our change in eating habits not only makes me feel better physically, but it makes my checkbook feel better too since we’re not wasting money on fast food.” 

Ron tells us that recently, he’s been doing a lot of “shopping” in his own closet, trying on clothes that he hasn’t been able to wear in years. Since he’s down 28 pounds and 26 inches since the start of the Challenge, we see why!* 

Marlene Copeland 

A big “A-Ha!” moment for Marlene came with the realization that she no longer views the healthy eating and exercise of the OsoLean Challenge as a diet, but as a lifestyle.  “That’s been a big shift in my thinking,” says Marlene, “being able to cross over that barrier.”  Another realization Marlene has come to is that it’s important not to beat herself up over the “should-have’s”.  Marlene explains; “When something comes up from preventing me from completing my workout or if I just don’t have the energy one day to make it through all the exercises, I don’t get discouraged.  I think to myself that I have done more today than I normally would have and even if it’s not everything I intended to do, it is something, and that counts.” 

So far Marlene has lost 17 pounds and 30.25 total inches.* She’s very proud of her progress and so are we! 

Aaron Copeland 

Aaron is finally getting settled in Mexico, having found an apartment and recently joining a gym. “That’s been the best thing for me,” says Aaron, “the consistency that a gym provides, seeing the same people at the same time of day.  Even though you may not actually be working out with them, you’re all working out at the same time and you’re there for the same reason.”  

Aaron continues, “I used to have a home gym that I purchased and worked out pretty steadily for six months.  But then the weather changed; it got cold and I could find a million reasons not to work out.  Even though it was the most prominent thing in my room, and I practically had to walk around it to get out of bed, the most use it got was as a place to hang my dress shirts!” 

In addition to his workouts, Aaron says his diet has greatly improved.  Besides closely monitoring his sugar intake he has recently started trying to eliminate grains from his diet. So far Aaron has lost 19 pounds and 3 inches in his stomach!* Aaron advises that you should “set a very specific goal and focus on that. Break it down into manageable portions. The end goal might be far off, but if you make just one good choice that leads to another good choice and suddenly you’ve had a day of successes.  That’s a victory.  It’s cumulative.”

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

 

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Challenge Update: Poni Altvater & Kari Muniz

Poni Altvater

Like some of our other Challenge team members, Poni hit her “set point” which she has trouble moving beyond.  “It’s like my body decides it’s fine with where we’re at, but I say we’re really not!” laughs Poni. Poni modifies the workouts she receives from Ashly with the assistance of her husband who is also very into working out and physical fitness.  “My personal goal is to burn 500 calories with each cardio workout.  I’ve found a particular elliptical machine at my gym that allows me to adjust intensity levels and intervals so I can do this,” says Poni.  While she’s still traveling quite a bit with the Mexico launch, Poni does her best to stay on top of her eating and workouts.  So far Poni has lost 22 pounds!* 

When asked if she’s had to go out and buy new clothes yet, Poni says that “there will be a shopping spree at some point in the future, just not right now.  I’ve still got more weight to lose so what would be the point!?”  Luckily, Poni has various sizes of clothing from her past that will get her through this “in-between” time.  On her upcoming trip back to Mexico, there won’t be access to a gym so Poni and her husband are going to tackle outdoor activities like walking and volleyball to stay in shape.  “You have to be resourceful with what’s available to you,” says Poni.  “Don’t give up just because you don’t have access to a gym or are out of your normal workout-comfort zone.  Always find an alternative!”

Kari Muniz

Unfortunately for us, this will be the last update we provide from Kari as she is withdrawing from the Challenge.  She recently told us that she just doesn’t think she can lose any more weight, and we agree with her.   That’s because she’s pregnant!!  Our well-wishes go out to the Muniz family from all of us here at Mannatech and from the OsoLean Challenge team.  As of her latest weigh-in, Kari had lost nine pounds and she says that OsoLean powder is “definitely something I will use to shed that baby weight later!”  Maybe we’ll see her in the next Challenge?  Congrats, Kari!

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

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Challenge Update: Kim Finley & Lois Gresiuk

Kim Finley

The past few weeks have brought both challenge and huge success for Kim. After week three of the Challenge, Kim hit a plateau. Even though she was being very meticulous about her exercise and eating habits, she just couldn’t get that little arrow on the scale to budge. At one point she felt like giving up and even quit working out for a couple of days. Maybe that little break was just what she needed, because when she jumped back on the wagon she did so with full force and within the last week has reached a very special milestone for her.

Kim has never weighed less than 240 pounds since she had her second child, 15 years ago. As of her most recent weigh-in, Kim is now at 233 pounds and has lost 22 inches! *

Kim has also reached a new comfort level with her eating habits. “I can allow myself room for one cookie and eat it slowly and enjoy it. I can have one piece of chocolate or 10 M&M’s and it’s still satisfying.”

Kim tells others who may hit a plateau like she did, “Don’t give up and don’t get discouraged. It’s okay to be upset, just allow yourself the freedom to not feel like it’s the end of the world. Stay the course no matter what your scales or your clothes say, just stick with it.”

Lois Gresiuk

The biggest challenge that Lois continues to face is more external than internal.  Like many of us, Lois has a very busy life including two teenagers who she chauffeurs around to practices, social events and school functions. It’s hard carving out 60 minutes, 5 times a week to exercise.  “I set my alarm early and get it done in the morning so I can move on with my day,” says Lois. She has managed to lose 10 pounds and 8.2 inches so far!*

What Lois is finding most helpful is the accountability that the Challenge provides.  “Don’t put something in your mouth if you don’t want to write it down or tell Ashly about it!” she says.  “In my case it’s Ashly, but it could be your friend, brother, or even your journal.”

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

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Ashly’s Trainer Tip #7: Eliminate the Negative

Ban negative self talk.  Just because something’s not spoken aloud doesn’t mean it isn’t powerful.  Sometimes our inner voices are our worst enemies. Negative self talk will only sabotage your efforts to achieve your goal. Believe in yourself and your ability to succeed. Be your own cheerleader and pump yourself up; you CAN do this! Dig deep, there is more in you than you think.

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Ashly’s Trainer Tip #6: Quench Your Hunger

Did you know that thirst is often mistaken for hunger? Just because your stomach growls does not mean you need to eat! Try this the next time you think you’re hungry; drink a glass of water. See if you feel satisfied and then decide if you need to reach for food.

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Challenge Update: Joelnell Hawkins

“You don’t notice something until it’s changed,” says Joelnell, “which is why people are noticing now.” This is a piece of advice Joelnell shared with a fellow Challenge teammate, but one which applies to her as well.  Joelnell has lost about 20 pounds since the start of the Challenge.* “I’m putting off buying new pants until I get below my goal weight, but I’m already definitely down one pant size and my shirts are fitting more loosely,” says Joelnell.

As the youngest member of our team, Joelnell describes unique challenges that young people who are overweight face.  “It’s definitely harder to buy stylish clothes when you are larger,” says Joelnell, “and forget finding something that fits on a clearance rack.  Also, people expect that because you are younger, it’s easier for you to lose weight, which isn’t necessarily true.”

Joelnell loves to take her OsoLean powder with coffee in the morning and hot green tea at night and like many of her fellow teammates, has discovered how invaluable keeping a food diary can be.  “People think that cutting out bad foods is hard, and it may be at first, but after a certain point, your body doesn’t even crave them anymore,” says Joelnell.  Joelnell’s musical tastes lean more towards classical music when she’s working out because she loves the fast pace and rhythm.

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

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Challenge Update: The Copelands

Ron Copeland

One of the more descriptive responses we’ve received when asking our Challenge team members for a personal success story comes from Ron. “One of my proudest achievements is being able to run through the Valley of Carbs at the grocery store and not be tempted!” I think most of us know what he’s referring to. “I no longer make impulse buys,” he says.

This aversion to impulse buying has had a secondary affect on his diet in that he and Marlene now have room in their budget for more fresh fruit, vegetables and organic foods. “I never would have thought I could eat kale and like it!” Ron says with a laugh.

Ron has lost an amazing 20 pounds and 12 inches since the start of the challenge.* “It’s a change in behavior and in mindset,” explains Ron.  “It takes being truly honest with yourself about your condition; no excuses or lying.”  While working out, Ron likes to listen to Michael J. Smith and Latin music while doing cardio.

Marlene Copeland

Marlene has been keeping pace with Ron as they face the Challenge together and while she works out at the same time as Ron, sometimes she does so in a separate room so she can focus on her specifically tailored routine. Marlene also partners with Ron for meal planning and grocery shopping but has her own unique challenges to overcome.  “She has had to really focus on perfecting her eating habits because she’s the type of person who can go all day without eating then eat a large dinner,” says Ashly.  As Marlene is learning, that’s counter-productive to fat loss. 

Marlene shared on a recent team call that one of the most powerful things she’s received from the Challenge has been the support of her teammates. “I just wouldn’t be able to do it without all of you,” she said, “It’s been a very touching experience.”

Aaron Copeland

Aaron is also actively involved in the Mexico launch and has been in Guadalajara for two weeks. Like Poni, Aaron has had to adjust his eating habits and workouts to fit life in Mexico.  “Even though I’ve been so busy with the launch that I missed a couple of workouts, I’m still walking three to five miles a day since that’s one of the main modes of transportation here,” says Aaron. “I didn’t do that back home!”  Aaron has been making it to the gym though, and has gained a lot of accountability from working out with teammate Poni and her husband, Tim. “I get a much better workout when I have a partner,” says Aaron.

“Being in Mexico has actually been great for my eating habits,” explains Aaron.  “There are tons of healthy, fresh foods available from street vendors that are good choices. There are Walmarts here too, so it’s not like we’re that limited on shopping choices.” Aaron advises to shop the perimeter of the grocery store where the fresh, unprocessed items are usually found and to avoid the middle aisles as much as possible. Interestingly, Aaron has noticed, “the bad food choices are more expensive here!  For example, a half gallon of Blue Bell ice cream is $9.95.  I compared other junk foods that I used to buy and found that they are all more expensive as well.  So, not only is easy to eat healthy here, it’s easier on my wallet!”

Aaron reports that he has lost inches and that his clothes are fitting more loosely now. Lately, when Aaron works out he’s been watching the tennis players at the Australian Open to keep him motivated.

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

 

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Ashly’s Trainer Tip #5: Breaking the Cycle

Have you ever wondered why you crave unhealthy foods? Sugar, fat and salt have high hedonic values, which means they give you pleasure. This pleasure reinforces you to return to your favorite foods time and time again. 

Use this clever trick to eliminate those unhealthy foods from your diet.  It’s a mind trick and one that works GREAT!  When you start to reach for one of those sugary, salty or fatty foods, ask yourself:

• Will those calories “feed the muscle or feed the fat”?
• Is this food essential fuel for my active lifestyle or is it just filler that will make me feel sluggish?
• Will that food taste better than being healthy and looking great feels?

This mantra helps to break the pleasure-seeking cycle with foods that are bad for you.

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Challenge Update: Kim Finley & Lois Gresiuk

Kim Finley 

In the past, Kim has been an emotional eater.  “I don’t necessarily eat when I’m hungry, and I can actually go a long time without eating.  That’s not good for your metabolism either, as I’m learning,” says Kim.  “Through the Challenge, I’m learning not to feed the emotions whenever life gets difficult and to stay away from junk food.” 

 Kim’s husband recently surprised her with an olive oil atomizer.  “It allows you to use your own olive oil and creates a fine mist to use during cooking.  This way I can spray a pan or vegetables to prevent burning and add flavor without adding a ton of unnecessary oil or butter.” 

 Kim lost two pounds during her third week of the Challenge bringing her total loss to 10 pounds and 14 inches.* 

 “I was actually getting comfortable with trainer Ashly’s workouts and then she went and changed them up!   I’m using some of the exercises I’m more comfortable with from weeks one and two as a warm up to the new, more difficult exercises,” says Kim. 

Kim works out to the worship music that her children listen to including Eddie James, which is more hip-hop / R&B flavored. 

 

Lois Gresiuk

Nothing like a minor fender-bender to knock you off your workout regimen! Unfortunately, that was one of the big challenges Lois had to overcome since we last spoke.  After taking a few days off from working out in order to recover, she was right back at it. “Three chiropractor trips a week definitely cuts into your routine, but the doctor said not to let this stop me!” exclaimed Lois.  Her determination seems to be working. 

 “Myscale has dipped to a number that it has never dipped before,” says Lois.  Without revealing her weight, Lois says, “Numbers that end in zero are always significant, whether it’s your age or your weight, so this was a big one for me.”

Lois credits several factors to her success including closely monitoring her food intake, portion control and accountability.  “Accountability is huge,” she says.  “I didn’t have accountability until Ashly stepped in.  I recommend tackling this with a buddy, because the accountability definitely helps.” 

Lois’ husband gave her an i Pod for Christmas and she had her teenage sons upload music to it for her.  So, her workout tunes consists of a mix of her kids’ favorites and some of her own favorites—anything with a good beat. 

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

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Challenge Update: Poni Altvater & Kari Muniz

Poni Altvater

When last we checked in with Poni she was busy with travel to and from Mexico in preparation for the Mannatech launch there.   On eating healthy while traveling, Poni advises, “Always bring your own snacks, like roasted almonds, or instead of candy try dried ginger—it’s really good!”  It’s also important to be able to balance a particular country’s customs with your own health goals.  “It would be rude to show up as a guest to dinner and then not eat anything on your plate.  You can modify any meal to make it work.  For example, when I’m served tacos, I’ll eat the meat and veggies but not the tortillas.  This helps me save calories while still respecting my host’s culture,” says Poni.

Poni is already setting fitness goals beyond the OsoLean Challenge to keep herself motivated and inspired.  “I’m planning on participating in a mud run in June at Camp Pendleton and a ladies-only challenge race in September which consists of a half-mile swim, 12 mile bike ride and a 5K run.”

Poni has continued to lose an average of three pounds per week and has lost exactly 19 pounds so far.*

 This week we’ve been asking our Challenge Team what music they use to keep them moving during their workouts and Poni listens to a variety. “Anything with a fast beat” works for her including Billy Idol, Christina Aguilera, Michael Jackson, and even Def Leppard! Rock on, Poni!

Kari Muniz

Unfortunately, cold and flu season recently visited the Muniz’s home with every member of the family falling ill in the same week! Who got to play nurse but Mamma Kari, of course! However, Kari went above and beyond with some light treadmill workouts while still managing to take care of sick kids and  herself.

 “I knew it wouldn’t be healthy to push myself too hard, but it also felt good to get up and get moving,” says Kari.

Being sick doesn’t really lend itself to eating healthy or working out, but Kari says that “everyone is better now and I’m so ready to get back on my routine!” Kari has lost seven pounds since the start of the Challenge.* Kari listens to ChristianRock.net, an online music station while working out or Air One, a nationwide Christian Rock station.  Looks like we’ve got some rockers here on the Challenge Team!

*Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

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Ashly’s Trainer Tip #4: Visualization

Never forget the power of visualization. Visualize the accomplishment of your goals each and every day. Experience the feel of success and taste of sweet satisfaction. Believe in yourself. Know with conviction that you CAN accomplish your goals. Seeing is believing and believing is doing!

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Ashly’s Trainer Tip #3: Warm-Up

 

The purpose of the pre-workout warm up is to gradually heat your muscles and joints up for easy movement throughout the workout. It should include stretching exercises that take the body through the full range of motion along with cardio exercises that increase heart rate and breathing.  How do you know you’re fully warmed up? Easily enough; breaking out in a sweat lets you know that your body is ready.

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Ashly’s Trainer Tip #2: Breakfast

Start each day with a healthy breakfast!  This important meal should be a balance of carbohydrates, protein and fat to get your metabolism going strong. Avoid sugar during this time so that you’re breaking the fast with wholesome, healthy foods.

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Challenge Update: Kim Finley, Jin Park

Kim Finley

According to Kim, the hardest part of the Challenge, and a sentiment you will hear echoed by many of our team members, has simply been finding the time.  “I’ve always been a really involved mom,” says Kim.  Even though her three kids are nearly grown and out of the house, she still gets up each morning at five to cook them breakfast and pack a lunch for her husband before sending them all out the door.  “I would usually go back to bed for an hour or so after that, to catch up on my sleep.”  Not anymore—now that’s when Kim fits in her workouts.

Kim has been focusing on portion control through diligent measurement.  With the addition of OsoLean powder into her meal planning, she finds that she’s less hungry throughout the day and certainly not ravenous at the end of the day like she used to be. “I love chocolate, so I’ve found that when I mix my OsoLean powder with almond milk, crushed ice and a couple teaspoons of light chocolate syrup, it really helps to satisfy that craving for ice cream or other junk I used to eat during the day.”

When advising  busy mothers like her who might put the needs of others before their own personal fitness, Kim says,  “It’s easier than you think to put ourselves in the mix of husbands and children instead of at the bottom of the barrel.  We can’t fix everyone else if we’re falling apart.”  Well said!

Jin Park

Though we were unable to catch up with Jin ourselves, trainer Ashly reports that Jin has been diligent about getting in all of his workouts and doing cardio on the off days.  Jin already has a step up on the competition in that he and his mother both cook and share very healthy meals, and she is serving as his support and accountability system at home 

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Challenge Update: Poni Altvater, Kari Muniz

Poni Altvater

Being heavily involved in the upcoming Mexico launch, Poni has had to work around a hectic travel schedule.  Though she’s highly self-motivated and determined, extended stays in unfamiliar countries can present workout challenges.  “A lot of the gyms there aren’t open early and don’t stay open late and going for long runs outside isn’t really an option like it is back home,” says Poni.  “Plus, wise meal choices aren’t as easy when the most popular menu items are tacos and margaritas!”

To overcome this, OsoLean Challenge trainer Ashly Torian devised a workout plan that is still challenging but can be done entirely in Poni’s hotel room.  Additionally, Poni has begun building her own personal workout “book” that consists of articles and workouts she finds in women’s magazines that will support her during the Challenge.

Since Poni has started using OsoLean powder, working out and eating healthy, she has lost an average of three pounds per week—an amazing start!^†  We can’t wait to see what more she will accomplish.

 

Kari Muniz

With four children to home-school and her Mannatech® business to manage, Kari feels  that one of her biggest struggles since starting the Challenge has been finding  enough time.  She counsels, “Don’t feel guilty about taking time for yourself; you’re not being selfish. If you don’t take care of you it’s hard to take care of everyone else!”

Kari fits workouts in to her busy schedule either early in the morning before everyone is up or late at night after everyone else has gone to bed.

The Challenge has meant a lifestyle change for the whole family, because after all, “I prepare the meals, so they eat what I eat!”   When she feels the urge to grab an unnecessary snack, she heeds the advice of her trainer Ashly, “Don’t feed the fat. You just have to ask yourself what you really want and listen to your inner voice.  What’s more important, to feed the fat or meet your goals?”

Luckily, Kari has a very supportive family including kids who ask her every morning if she’s taken her OsoLean powder!  “I like to mix mine with sugar-free apple juice and find that it mixes a little easier if the apple juice is room temperature instead of straight out of the fridge,” says Kari.

Even though it’s early on in the Challenge, Kari has been able to fit into a pair of jeans that she couldn’t a month ago. We can’t wait to see what else is in store for her!

†Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

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Challenge Update: Joelnell Hawkins, Dane Luvaas

Joelnell Hawkins

A young mother, Joelnell faces many of the same challenges shared by other team members, particularly a shortage of hours in the day.  But Joelnell is using technology to her advantage by logging her meals via her smart phone so that she can monitor her food on-the-go and has been completing her cardio sessions at the local YMCA.  Joelnell prefers to take her OsoLean powder in the mornings with coffee, much like one would use a creamer and has been checking in with Challenge team member and fellow Tacoma resident Dane Luvaas to compare notes and encourage each other.

Dane Luvaas

A competitive soccer player until a knee injury slowed him down, Dane’s primary goal has been to get back into “playing shape.” 

“I’ve had to modify a few of the workouts to accommodate for some old sports injuries, but I’m excited about getting back into the active lifestyle,” says Dane. “Having been an athlete for so long, I wasn’t really concerned with Ashly’s workouts, but the first few kicked my can—they were brutal! I’ve been using muscles I forgot that I had.”

While our resident athlete is the only one officially enrolled in the Challenge, he’s recruited his wife for more than support! “He and his wife are working out together, and he’s worked out every day of the Challenge so far,” reports trainer Ashly. 

For those looking to incorporate OsoLean powder into their diet, Dane advises that the most important thing is to figure out what works for you.  He used to take OsoLean powder with plain orange juice, but since sugar reduction is a goal, Dane has been preparing his OsoLean powder with a mixture of half OJ, half water in the mornings and saves calories by using almond milk in the evenings.  “Take it, take it consistently, and keep your butt moving!” says Dane.

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Challenge Update: Lois Gresiuk

Lois Gresiuk

“There is life after extreme stiffness!” says Lois. “After my first Ashly workout I was so stiff that any and all movement using my glutes or thighs hurt, but the stiffness eased off as I continued to work out.”

Through the Challenge, Lois is learning to know her limits, when to push them, and when to respect them. “In a desire to see quick results and impress my trainer, I started with a bang but didn’t really treat my first workout wisely.  My challenge is to steadily move forward while staying within my boundaries,” explains Lois.

While most of our team started the Challenge after the food frenzy that typically plagues us during the holiday season, Lois is unique in that her husband’s family is Ukrainian and they celebrate their Christmas during the first week of January. Like most family and holiday traditions, food plays a central role. “It surprised me that although Ashly was kind enough to give me time off from tracking calories and sugar grams, I already didn’t desire the portion sizes I would have in previous years. I didn’t step away from the table feeling bloated and overly full.”

That sounds like an important step in the right direction which we all could learn from.

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Challenge Update: The Copelands

Marlene Copeland

Starting the OsoLean Challenge has been somewhat of an eye-opening experience for Marlene.  She has tried to lose weight before but never realized until now just how many factors are involved in being successful.

 By logging her daily food intake, Marlene has discovered how difficult it is to make healthy choices when dining out. 

A trip to the local diner has shown Marlene that preparing your own meals at home allows you more control over fat and calories and it’s easier on your pocketbook. “The last time we went I made what I thought was a healthy decision by ordering the garden omelet instead of pancakes.  When I logged the meal into our online tracking program, I was amazed at how much fat and salt were in the omelet! It was still a better choice than the pancakes, but not by much!” 

In the first week, Marlene has lost an amazing 7.6 pounds and 13.5 combined inches!^†  “It takes a commitment on your own part, but it’s also extremely helpful to have an accountability partner. When things are hard, it helps to know that I will have someone checking up on me to make sure I’m on the right track.”  It sounds to us like Marlene is definitely on the right track.

Ron Copeland

Unfortunately, we didn’t get the chance to talk to Ron, but we did hear great things from his wife Marlene and trainer Ashly.  The whole Copeland family is “…wonderful, motivating and supporting each other,” according to Ashly.  Ron and Marlene have been holding each other accountable to their diet and workouts and are tackling the Challenge as a couple.

Aaron Copeland

Aaron, son to Marlene and Ron Copeland, is also involved in Mannatech’s upcoming Mexico launch, but that hasn’t stopped him from diligently working out and logging his food intake. 

“One thing I’ve found very useful has been the daily food log.  At first I didn’t give it much value, but I’m really seeing how foods are connected.  The biggest surprise was the amount of sugar and calories we can easily drink and never count,” says Aaron.

Ashly has been working with Aaron on ways to reduce sodium and sugar, but is also helping him to realize that getting enough calories is essential to fat loss.  Cutting out too many calories from your diet can leave you lethargic and is actually counter-productive. 

Before the challenge, Aaron had been working out with weights at home fairly regularly so he was surprised at how sore he was after just a few of Ashly’s  workouts.  “I am reminded that it is easier to maintain momentum than to stop and start numerous times.  I’m working on it,” says Aaron, “and soon, I’ll get everything in sync.”

†Individual results may vary. Participants in a preliminary open-label study conducted by Mannatech, Incorporated lost an average of 5.5 pounds and 2.5 inches over an 8-week period.

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OsoLean Challenge Team Updates are Coming!

One of the great things about our new blog is that we can give you an inside look at what it’s like to actually participate in the OsoLean Challenge.  We will be checking in regularly with our team members to get first-person accounts of their trials, tribulations, milestones and successes.  With the honesty and heart that this year’s team displays, you can be guaranteed that there will be a few tears and a lot of laughter along the way.  Check back often for updates from the team!

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Ashly’s Trainer Tip #1: Five Easy Steps

Have you decided that you are ready to get fit and healthy?  Are you ready to take time for yourself and to make your health a priority? Are you ready to do what needs to be done so you may live your life the way it was intended? 

Below are 5 simple steps that everyone should follow when beginning a new fitness regimen of regular exercise and healthy eating habits:

1. Exercise for 45–60 minutes, 5 days per week.  I recommend High Intensity Interval Training  and feel it’s more effective than extended periods of monotonous cardio
2. Eat real foods…NOT processed ones
3. Get 7–9 hours of sleep per night
4. Drink 8–10 glasses of water per day
5. Reduce sugar in your daily diet. A healthy amount of sugar per day is 30 grams, which is equal to approximately 2.5 servings of fruit.

Keep in mind, the key to success is to take small steps which will lead you to BIG changes! Implement 1 action step at a time, then each week add a new step—before you know it you are living all 5 steps!

Want to learn more about Ashly? Read her bio here

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Meet the Team

Poni Altvater – Fallbrook, CA

After launching a career in plus-size modeling, Poni’s agent asked her to do something many of us would never consider—to gain weight. Why? She wasn’t big enough for some of the jobs! “I had never struggled with weight issues and I always felt really bad for people around me who did because they looked too unhappy,” she wrote.  So she gained the weight, booked the jobs…and became the unhappy one.

“Things felt suddenly very out of control.”

Now Poni is committed to making a change. “I am ready and have been implementing transformation in my life,” she wrote.  “I am back on the fast track to success.”

 

 

 

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Ron Copeland – Searcy, AR

The diet of a 250-pound college football player is considerably different than that of an average person’s.  With all that hard work on the field, they need the additional calories!  However, when it comes time to leave the helmet and pads behind and the diet doesn’t adjust accordingly, there could be trouble.  At 59, Ron realized he’d been eating his entire life like the college football player he once was—and had the additional pounds and inches to prove it.

“It’s been showing for years, I just overlooked and ignored it and pretended to be happy with it,” said Ron.  “I have a wife, three children, son-in law and three grandchildren and if I don’t face reality, I won’t be around to see my grandchildren graduate from high school.  I won’t be around to enjoy retirement with my wife.  I won’t be able to share and give back. There will be unknown missed opportunities if I choose not to change reality and take personal responsibility,” says Ron.

But that’s the past.  Now Ron is “…ready and willing to make a difference.”

 

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Marlene Copeland – Searcy, AR

“Some people decide to change their course when they get a wake-up call.  I really don’t want to wait for that.”

Marlene has struggled with unwanted weight since childhood.  Starting and stopping various minimally successful diets over the years has left Marlene frustrated.  Any weight lost usually came back and  “I never, ever have come close to goal weight,” says Marlene

Aiming to change that, she looks forward to the support and structure that the OsoLean Challenge will provide.  With three grandchildren to keep up with, Marlene hopes to be the active, fit grandma that is the exception to the rule.

 

 

 

 

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Aaron Copeland – Searcy, AR

Do you know what 48% body fat looks like?  Thanks to an encounter with a scanner that measures body composition, Aaron Copeland does, and it was an eye-opening experience.  The fun-loving lifestyle and poor diet choices of college quickly turned his “freshman fifteen” into 188 pounds of extra fat.

After deciding to change his ways, Aaron lost a significant amount of weight, but has since yo-yoed back and forth with the same 15-20 pounds and still feels he has more pounds to lose.

“I’m so very tired of the roller coaster!  I’m tired of ill-fitting clothes. I’m tired of shouldering the extra weight,” Aaron says.  “I have made major changes, yet I haven’t made the commitment I’m capable of making.  It has to become my lifestyle change.”

 

 

 

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Kimberly Finley – St. Petersburg, FL

Kimberly’s struggle with unwanted weight began in the third grade, saddled with an extra 90 pounds and low self-esteem to boot.  Not one to bemoan her troubles, Kimberly slaps a lopsided grin on her situation by pointing out that she can proudly claim to have maintained a steady weight for the past 15 years!  The only problem is that weight is well above where she would like to be or what can even be considered healthy.

“Not a lot to be proud of,” quips Kimberly.

Encouraged by the Challenge, Kimberly is expecting great results .  “I decided that if I wanted to change my life and build a business around this product I would have to do something different. I want to have a story that I can share and that people can SEE and believe!”

 

 

 

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Lois Gresiuk – Steinbach, Manitoba Canada

Being a happily married wife of 21 years and mother to two teenagers can be very rewarding, but sometimes a wife and mother’s personal fitness becomes lower priority to other family matters.  Lois, a former Registered Nurse, recently found herself 30 pounds overweight and the methods she had used in the past to lose baby weight weren’t working.  “While I am grateful for the small amount of weight and bulk I have lost, I am frustrated. I haven’t lost enough, firmed up or had my clothes become baggy,” explains Lois.

“I am entering the OsoLean Challenge as a way to motivate myself to continue working at this fat reduction project, to inspire myself to stick to it…and work with much-needed accountability partners,” says Lois.

 

 

 

 

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Joelnell Hawkins – Tacoma, WA

Joelnell describes herself as a 26 year old trapped in a 35 year old body.  A young mother to an active son, Joelnell has done everything to try and lose weight.  From a well-balanced diet and exercise to extremes like low calorie, low-carbohydrate diets and working out three hours a day. A recent weight loss challenge at work was the last straw. “It frustrated me that coworkers would only cut out eating fast food from five days a week down to three and still lose weight.  They smoked, ate poorly and didn’t exercise.   It made me feel like I do everything right and get little to no results,” explained Joelnell.

“I admit I have lost an inch or two, but I still have such a long way to go. It seems almost hopeless.  I want to be at a healthy weight and I want my child to not describe me as the fat lady anymore.”

 

 

 

 

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Dane Luvaas – Tacoma, WA

Even the fittest and most athletic of us can be brought down by a knee injury.  Not being able to use an essential body part makes training difficult, yet not exercising can cause weight gain, making the strain on the injury worse and a vicious cycle ensues.

This is where Dane, formerly a very fit and active soccer player found himself after a torn meniscus and ACL.   “During the years since the injury and surgeries, it has been increasingly more difficult to rid my body of the additional weight gain,” says Dane.   “It would be great to learn how to train properly to get back to full fitness and truly be a visible testimony of what I already know Mannatech, its mission and its products to be about. I can’t wait to get back on the soccer pitch and I know that OsoLean powder can help me get there!”

 

 

 

 

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Kari Muniz – Odessa, TX

Like most stay-at-home mothers, Kari often feels that “there is always something else more important to deal with.”  With four kids to home school, a house to keep up and a husband to take care of, Kari’s own desire to lose weight often gets pushed aside.

“I feel guilty whenever I spend money on myself and so this is a way for me to be able to get the products I love with the training I need and support that will help me lose the weight I so desperately want to lose,” says Kari. “I know that thinner, beautiful young lady is in there somewhere and I KNOW OsoLean can help me find her again!”

 

 

 

 

 

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Jin Park – Edison, NJ

Part of being young is believing you will always be young and healthy and that you can eat and drink whatever you want.  That’s what Jin thought, eating “greasy food and beers at every turn.”

“As I tried to relieve my stress through binge drinking and fast food, my body grew tired and restless,” explained Jin.  Having tried numerous diets to lose weight, he found his efforts fruitless and as time went by, Jin gave up.  However, he sees Mannatech and the OsoLean Challenge as a way of getting back on track.

“It gives me confidence and a will to go on.”

+All team Mannatech Members are also Independent Associates of Mannatech, Inc.

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Meet the Trainer: Ashly Torian

The OsoLean® Team would not be complete without a personal trainer! Introducing Ashly Torian!

Ashly has been a personal trainer for more than 20 years. She founded her personal training business in 1991 and has since written thousands of exercise programs for home, gym, group and boot-camp use. Ashly is also very involved in her community, promoting an active lifestyle among children’s groups, churches and senior adult groups. In addition, she’s a Team Mannatech^SM member.

Ashly obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Adult Corporate Fitness from Abilene Christian University and is a certified personal trainer through the American Council on Exercise. She is also recognized as an IDEA Elite personal trainer and has earned special recognition from IDEA as a senior fitness instructor, mind and body fitness trainer and a weight management facilitator.

We are very excited to have Ashly as part and partner of the OsoLean Team.

⁺ Ashly Torian is an independent Mannatech Associate and a personal training consultant to Mannatech.

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2011 OsoLean Challenge

2011 OsoLean Challenge Winners Announced!

Mannatech is proud to announce the members of our 2011 OsoLean® Challenge team.  Hailing from across the US and Canada and comprised of young mothers, ex-athletes and even a family of three, our Challenge team members share one thing in common; the desire to improve their wellness through a dedication to exercise, healthy eating and proper supplementation.

Meet your 2011 OsoLean Challenge Team!

• Poni Altvater—Fallbrook, CA
• Aaron Copeland—Searcy, AR
• Ron Copeland—Searcy, AR
• Marlene Copeland—Searcy, AR
• Kimberly Finley—St. Petersburg, FL
• Lois Gresiuk—Steinbach, Manitoba, CANADA
• Joelnell Hawkins—Tacoma, WA
• Dane Luvaas—Tacoma, WA
• Kari Muniz—Odessa, TX
• Jin Park—Edison, NJ

The OsoLean Challenge team members were chosen based upon several criteria, including the submission of a personal story explaining their challenges with weight and why they are now ready to make a change.  Selection as a Challenge team member means a free three-month supply of OsoLean powder and one-on-one coaching from personal trainer and Team Mannatech℠ member Ashly Torian.

We invite you to follow the progress of the 2011 OsoLean Challenge team at MannatechOsoLean.com, currently undergoing a site redesign. When the newly improved site debuts in early January 2011, it will feature photos, bios and regular blog posts describing the Challenge and discussing general fitness topics. Be sure to check back often for updates.

Once again, congratulations to our 2011 OsoLean Challenge team members!

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