Welcome to my monthly blog post where I highlight one of my inspiring clients. Everyone has their own unique reason for working to improve their health, and there is inspiration in every reason, every “why,” and on every path.

Join me in celebrating this month’s client inspiration, Jill.

Fitness transformations come in many different packages. We so often see weight loss side-by-side transformation images flooding fitness industry social media. But I have seen the greatest transformations in my clients that no photo can capture. Prioritizing your health and fitness can be life-changing for those experiencing pain or recovering from severe injury or illness, and Jill’s story is a great example of what such a transformation is like.

For many women over 40, the challenges of pain, fatigue, or setbacks like injury can feel overwhelming. It’s easy to think, “Is change even possible for me?” Jill’s story proves that not only is change possible—it’s life-changing.

Jill and I have actually known each other since the fifth grade. Life took us down different paths, and other than high school reunions and social media, we haven’t been the best at keeping in touch. When her doctor suggested she work with a personal trainer earlier this year, she reached out, and it has been so inspiring to be by her side, guiding her back to inner and outer strength as her coach.

“I was born with scoliosis and then fractured my vertebrae and had major back surgery at 16 years old. I have had to monitor and adjust almost everything I did after that, but I was able to do almost everything I wanted, such as martial arts, golf, scuba diving, and off-roading. When I hit my forties, I developed arthritis around the metal in my back, which caused severe pain. I got to the point that I could no longer stand for more than a few minutes at a time, let alone do normal daily activities. I was facing a life-altering back surgery as ‘my only hope to relieve the pain,’ and I was living on high-dosage anti-inflammatories and pain pills.

In March of 2024, I decided to try stem cell injections in my back in order to regenerate healthy cells to heal my back rather than have a spinal fusion surgery. After three months, I was off all medications, and after six months, I was healed enough to start working out. I decided to have Nicole help me get back into shape and healthy again, which has been LIFE CHANGING!! After three months of working with her, I am able to hike and golf again, and I now look forward to my workouts instead of dreading being in pain.”

From day one, Jill has stuck to her program. She has been consistent in her workouts and quickly progressed in her physical abilities to adding longer walks on most days of the week and, more recently, hiking.

“My physical and mental health have become THE MOST important things to me. Becoming and staying healthy and physically fit makes me feel better, proud of myself, and gives me a general feeling of happiness, which translates to every other aspect of my life and my relationships.”

In addition to workouts centered on building core strength, we made sure her nutrition was keeping up with her new, active lifestyle. She’s now getting creative with adding a variety of sources of protein to her diet so she can ensure she’s getting enough without getting bored. We also started tracking her hydration levels and increased where we needed, so now it’s a habit to drink more water throughout the day. Jill is not only feeling stronger and more confident in what her body can do, but she is also feeling more energized and is sleeping better throughout the night.

“Every experience with Nicole has been great. She is calm and personable, very knowledgeable, and intuitive to my needs. She is very encouraging and has helped me tremendously to not only reach my goals but to exceed them. I am truly thankful for her! I would highly recommend her for all the reasons I just listed and the fact that she brings a wealth of knowledge and variety to her workouts. She always keeps me on my toes.”

With the right guidance, personalized support, and a plan that fits your life, even the most daunting obstacles can be overcome. That’s what Jill’s journey shows us: it’s never too late to reclaim your strength and vitality.

Every transformation starts with a single step. Whether it’s taking a short walk, adding a new source of protein to your meals, or reaching out for help—small changes lead to big results over time. Jill’s transformation from a life filled with pain and fatigue into a strong, energized adventure is inspiring and motivating to me, and I hope for you as well.

Are you ready to take control of your health and discover what’s possible for your life? Whether you’re recovering from pain, looking to increase energy, or simply want to feel stronger, let’s work together to create your own transformation story. Schedule a free consultation today, and let’s get started!

 

Photo Credit: Jill’s Husband

About NickiFit

Since 2014, when NickiFit A to Z began, it has been my mission to make fitness accessible to all women. Many women feel uncomfortable in a standard gym setting. Many women have had horrible experiences with past trainers who did not provide the level of care they needed. I meet clients where they are at. I recognize that not everyone is comfortable in a gym or working out in groups so I coach clients in the comfort of their own home. I guide women through efficient, effective at home workouts and help them adjust their nutrition and their habits to support the life they want to live.