I joined LifeStart a couple of years ago at 205 N Michigan. There, I really enjoyed the environment, classes and had awesome trainers like Jamie and Kelly, but like many I started to work from home and eventually got laid off so I couldn’t go there anymore. I eventually found a new job and to my luck and surprise my new building had a LifeStart gym as well!

Then, one year ago, I had just turned thirty, I was just in a really dark place, unhealthy and overall, I wasn't happy with how I looked and who I was. I decided to do something about it and focus on my physical and mental health, so I started to train with Joel Hollingsworth at Thrive on 8. Joel's energy, positivity, constant encouragement, and accountability made it easy for me to enjoy the process and most importantly stick with it, which had been hard for me in the past.

Joel says that he believes that proper exercise can change your body, mind, and soul, and it totally did for me. With Joel's help with setting my goals (short and long term), his knowledge in picking the right exercises and routines that work for me and making them fun and challenging, not only have I lost 60 lbs., but I have gained my confidence back and I’m happier than ever before.

Thank you, Joel, and thank you LifeStart!