Hi Lori! Please tell us about yourself.
Hi guys, my name is Lori McEahern, and I have been married to my husband Jim for 27 years now. As many of you may know, I have one child, Rachael, who is also a member of FF. When Rachael was about four years old, my employer gave me the opportunity to relocate to another state. Jim and I took them up on this adventure and chose Alaska. We have been here ever since. I would not have wanted to raise Rachael anywhere else.
I still work for the same company that brought me to Alaska. Insurance work. I handle workers compensation claims. I enjoy reading, my dogs and working out. I look forward to becoming a Grandma within the next 2-3 years.
How long have you worked with FF, and what motivated you to seek us out?
Rachael has been with FF for 2-3 years now, I believe. I really loved seeing the changes she was making, both physically and mentally working with you guys. She was in great shape and was having fun. I wanted some of that. I started out as a semi-regular attendee at Saturdays “Boot Camp for a Cause” and did that for several months prior to formally joining FF in late November/early December 2015. It was one of the best things I have ever done for myself.
What are 3 of the most positive changes you’ve made in your life over the last 12 months?
I quit smoking on July 28, 2015. Almost a year ago. That is the most positive change I have made in the past 12 months. I have quit smoking several times in the past and normally gain 15-20 pounds in the process. The weight gain, not fitting into my clothes and total bitchiness is usually why I started smoking again. My smoking starvation diet kept me at what I thought was a good weight.
I participated in the 2016 Winter Transformation Challenge and learned so much about nutrition and exercise. Little did I know that you can actually eat and lose inches. Meal planning was and is still a struggle, although I do enjoy counting my macros. I had never done a work out like this before. I could only do “girl” push-ups, and not many of them at that. This was totally out of my comfort zone. I am learning how to push myself harder (although I do need to be reminded of this) and to trust myself that I can do it- whatever “it” may be.
How has your approach to your nutrition changed since starting with us? Any tips?
I don’t think I ever really thought about nutrition prior to starting with FF. Now I track what I eat in MFP and read labels when I go grocery shopping. I never really connected eating healthy to feeling good. Changing my eating habits have had a tremendous impact on how I feel both mentally physically.
What are a few of your favorite things about FF Boot Camp classes?
My favorite thing about FF Boot Camp classes are the coaches. You guys know what you are doing and go out of your way to help everyone. This includes helping with goals, meals/macros, exercises & stretching, talking Gu, Salt & Water, or just listening. Initially I was a little intimidated to go to boot camp without Rachael, but everyone at FF is so friendly, helpful and caring, that this fear was short lived. I also love that every workout is different, I never know what to expect, but I always get a good work out.
How about a few of your favorite exercises?
My favorite exercise is anything to do with the TRX, like inverted row. I also like Lifting weights, which surprises me. I am even starting to like some of the exercises that initially intimidated me. I like seeing the change in my body and strength.
You just signed up to be a part of the FF Lost Lake team. What inspired you to want to participate in this event?
Rachael inspired me to participate in the FF Lost Lake team. She thought it would be fun if we all (Jim, Chase, Rach and I) could do it. I have never been much of a hiker. This is a new FF thing I am learning. I have been able to participate in 5-6 of the training hikes so far this summer and they have been a blast. Getting inexperienced hikers some experience (before Lost Lake) is going above and beyond. Something very unique to FF. “Team building,” as Steph put it today.
We just started the FF Summer Transformation Challenge this week. What are your three goals for the next 6 weeks and why are they so important to you?
My goals are a little different this time around. First off, I wanted to see if I could eliminate chocolate from my diet for 6 weeks. Recently, I have been consuming chocolate on a daily basis. So far, two weeks into the challenge, I have had no chocolate. I need to learn how to practice things in moderation.
My second goal was to try to get back into practicing Yoga 2-3 times a week along with Boot Camp 3-4 times a week. I have tried a couple of less intense 6am Yoga classes and I am able to do both Yoga and Boot Camp in the same day.
I also want to learn how to meditate. I am currently reading books recommended to me on the power of mindfulness and breathe. I am trying to learn how to breathe. I tend to stress myself out and have heard that meditation is a great way to de-stress.
My third goal is to lose 3% body fat. I gained back some body fat in between the Winter and Summer Transformation Challenges. I knew it when I got measured and was not surprised when I had gained an inch or so back in my waist. I don’t weigh myself much but rather judge things by how I fit in clothes. Things were getting a little tight around the middle. I need to get back into good nutrition and counting my macros. I definitely feel better when I eat better.
What motivates you on a daily basis?
Trying to do the right thing in any given situation and getting the best result I can. I have found that cutting corners tends to make things easier, but doesn’t necessarily mean I have done the right thing. Not giving up. Being the best me I can be.
Any advice for someone who wants to get in shape? What have you learned about the process, so far?
My advice to someone that wants to get into shape is to listen to people who know what they are talking about. People who have walked the walk. It is not an easy process. Take it in baby steps until you can take bigger steps. This is a lifestyle change, a new journey.