“Despite being 65 years old and having survived a heart attack, I can confidently say that I am currently in the best shape of my life.”
Goals:
- Long-term overall health and fitness
- Improve cardiovascular function
- Prehab and injury prevention
- Six days a week training
Age Group: 65-69
Challenges: Finding the time to work out while running a business and needing to travel for work
Training Plan: Following a heart attack, Randy’s independent training program has focused on improving his cardiovascular function and ensuring he remains injury-free. He follows a plan that prioritizes five phases of cardio training: base, build, taper, peak, and recovery. These five training phases have been utilized for decades by athletes who compete in endurance sports like running, cycling, triathlon, cross-country skiing, and open-water swimming. Randy’s workouts include detailed warm-up instructions, cardio duration, distance, pace, and targeted heart rates for higher exertion and recovery efforts.
Using Monarch Fitness Coaching’s training software, Randy provides feedback, including duration, distance, average heart rate, max heart rate, time in each training zone, speed, pace, and recovery time. Thanks to his commitment and the support he receives from Coach Heather, at Randy’s annual physical, his doctor said that Randy is healthier than he has ever seen him in over 20 years.
Q and A with Randy
What brought you to train with Monarch Fitness Coaching?
I decided to train with Monarch Fitness Coaching because my previous experiences with trainers were only average at best. Being in the fitness industry for half of my career and working with renowned trainers, I felt a disconnect between their level of fitness and my own. Despite playing high-level soccer, I struggled to maintain fitness as I aged and often injured myself during exercise.
After training with Coach Heather, I realized that the root of these problems was an incorrect foundation, from walking to standing. I never trained those muscles and structures to move correctly. I embraced the idea of following a system that works, and I committed to the Monarch Method to address these issues.
What motivated you to prioritize and invest more effort into your training with Monarch Fitness Coaching?
I experienced health issues during a business trip to Hong Kong and China. I had chest pain, which I thought might be cardiac-related. I contacted a group of top Chinese doctors I had worked with for advice, and they recommended seeking medical attention outside of China because of healthcare quality concerns. Upon returning to Chicago, I visited the ER and discovered that I had suffered a heart attack a few weeks prior, with several major arteries significantly blocked. I am grateful that I had been following my Monarch Fitness Coaching program before my heart attack. I don’t know if I would have had the same outcome had I not been dedicated to the training.
After undergoing stent placement and making significant dietary changes, I engaged in cardiac rehab and continued working closely with my Fitness Coaching Team. I took my training even more seriously and focused on following the details of my program. Today, I very rarely miss a workout.
I’ve not only lost weight, but I have also significantly improved my cardiovascular endurance, strength, and overall well-being. I now work out six days a week, incorporating prescribed cardio and strength exercises, and I no longer experience the pain and limitations I once had.
What changes have you noticed since prioritizing your training and overall wellness?
I have noticed significant changes in my overall well-being. I am 65 years old and in the best shape of my life. About 90 percent of this transformation can be attributed to the teachings and practices instilled by Coach Heather. My cardiologist called me his “Gold Star” patient, saying, “I only have a handful of patients who eat properly, exercise, and build heart muscle—Great work!”
Additionally, engaging in stress-relieving workouts has allowed me to effectively manage the immense stress I’ve experienced in recent years. Overall, I feel fortunate, blessed, and grateful for the guidance and support I receive from Heather.
What advice do you have for people considering training with Monarch Fitness Coaching?
My advice for future clients is to embrace the journey of prioritizing their fitness and well-being. Through my own experience, I have discovered a newfound sense of freedom and joy in living a fit and active life. It’s not about being extraordinary or achieving perfection, but about feeling empowered and in tune with one’s body.
Remember that the key is to be present in the moment and enjoy the process. Stay committed to your workouts and appreciate the guidance and support of a dedicated coaching team who can help you progress and celebrate your accomplishments.
