LORI GLIDDEN: ASF Central Athlete of the Month – June 2017

Lori is one of ASF’s newer clients. The 43 year old entrepreneur and business owner just joined our Central community in the beginning of April 2017. Not a stranger to being athletic but new to strength training specifically, Lori hopped right in and joined forces with coach Sierra and hasn’t looked back. “Lori has an amazing energy about her,” Sierra said, “I nominated her for athlete of the month because when she shows up she is ready to tackle any challenge and she brings an amazing energy with her.”

 

 

 

What do you do for work/ in your professional life?
Own and operate Taurus Irrigation.  We install, repair, and maintain irrigation systems both commercial and residential.

How long have you been working out at ASF?  
The first of April this year.

Why did you decide to join ASF?
I was working out at home, and dabbling in and out of trying different things from cycling to swimming.  I also wanted to be a part of something, to be connected and committed to other people in a group setting.  I know Krista and happened to stop in for a consult to talk about my weight lifting routine at home.  Before I knew it, I was signed up for sessions with Sierra that week and also for my first powerlifting meet.  I figured, what did I have to lose? Nothing.  All gain from here!

What were your goals when you started?  
My goal was to get in there and see what I was made of.  I wanted to see the progression of my strength starting from day one and to each week after.   I obviously wanted to cut some weight so I could look like Krista in a tank top and tights.

How close are you to meeting them?  
Each time I set foot into the gym, I am getting stronger.  My coach adds more weight and I take it without question. She knows how to read me, and trust is a big part of it.

What changes have you noticed in your body, mind, spirit since starting at ASF?  
Where do I start?!  So much has come into my life since then.  I stand taller.  I am confident.  I feel like I can tackle anything, do anything.  I start my day out there at 7am, and after I feel like a champion.  I think like one too, very focused and targeted.  My in body results were awesome just after 5 weeks.  Lost three pounds of body fat, and gained about that in muscle!  My clothes fit fantastically and I have to keep buying smaller sizes (NOT complaining!).  My spirits have been lifted because I feel like this is my family away from home.  I needed a place to belong to, to be a part of something more than the usual routine of work, sleep, eat.  The camaraderie, support, and love from everyone from clients to coaches fills this space.  Insert heart emoji.

What challenges have you had to overcome, if any, since starting out at ASF?
I have a tight glute/hamstring on the right side I am working through.  Once I get through it nothing will stop me.

Any surprises since starting at ASF?  
I know listen to Hip Hop music non stop!  It makes me feel pumped up outside of the gym.

Why do you like working out with Sierra?  
I have an immense amount of respect for my trainer/coach Sierra.  I could tell during our first training session she was highly skilled and knowledgeable in the sport, and as an athlete.   As a coach, she knows how to read her clients.  She knows how far you can really go, just when you think you can’t.  She believes in me, which helps me believe in myself.  Her focus, strength, and dedication inside and outside of the gym are admirable. I feel like I get to train with a future Olympian!  She is unbelievably strong, and can jump about as high as Kobe Bryant.  Follow her on instagram to see what all she can do!  

What is it about Sierra/ASF that keeps you coming back?  
EVERYTHING I mentioned previously about her and in the changes I have seen in my mind, body, spirit.  She’s also a mentor and friend.

What are your goals & plans for the future at ASF?  
My main focus is becoming a better, stronger athlete. Maybe a 300lb dead lift, maybe 15 pull ups.  As long as I keep growing stronger and getting leaner I will be happy. People keep asking me where I work out, and I hope they are inspired enough to join and grow this fabulous community.  We need more t-shirts so I can fill my day to day wardrobe sporting our logo around town 🙂

What is your favorite food?  
Bulletproof coffee blended with grass fed unsalted butter, Brain Octane Oil and Vital Protiens collagen powder.

Any advice you’d share with a newcomer to ASF?
Welcome to the Team!  You can do this!

Anything else you’d like to add about your experience at ASF or with Sierra?  
I’ve been on the cover of the NYTimes.  I’m in a recent 2017 calendar.   I’ve played in rock bands in front of thousands of people, have been in books, blogs, radio, etc.  I’ve directed films that have been in festivals.  And truly, none of those things, come close to being Austin Simply Fit’s athlete of the month.  This means so much to me in so many ways and I am honored.  From the bottom of my heart, thank you.