Robin Zwahlen with Washington County

Robin Zwahlen of Washington County is improving not only her own health but the health of her entire family. Incorporating dietary changes and exercise in her family’s lifestyle has benefitted them all.

Robin’s thoughts are focused on her kids. She wants them to be healthy and feel energetic when they’re at school. To ensure they don’t have a drop in energy before lunch time, Robin makes conscious, healthier choices when preparing their breakfasts. Making healthy substitutions with other meals has also helped, such as the use of olive oil instead of vegetable oil, crackers with cheese instead of chips, and fruit instead of candy.

Robin is finding that her energy levels are higher than they used to be as well. She is drinking more water in place of soda and is feeling the difference. She’s also eating more fruits and vegetables. These changes have given Robin the strength needed to set up the nursery for her new baby. She’s excited by her new lifestyle and not even dreading having to be awake with the new baby!

The changes Robin’s family has made since joining The Apple Program® have not only enhanced their health but also their bank account. “We ate out so much; we didn’t even realize how much it was costing us. Now we prepare dinners with the help and input of our kids.”

Robin said, “If it wasn’t for The Apple Program® we wouldn’t have begun making these changes. With the motivation of a helpful coach, my husband and I decided to buckle down and make this a family effort. We now go on family bike rides, walks, or swims.” If you want more energy, Robin suggests, “Take a second look at your menu and see where you can improvise and substitute.” Make it a family effort and you can succeed!

Kent Chauncey with DHI

Kent Chauncey of DHI has improved several aspects of his health since becoming a member of The Apple Program® in 2009. Not only has he lost 16 pounds, he has also lowered his blood glucose level, triglycerides, and total body-fat percentage. He’s no longer considered “high risk” with his health and attributes this to focusing on his short-term goals which were included getting his blood sugar and body-fat levels under control.

Kent’s desire to change came after his health assessment with The Apple Program. It was alerting to him that his blood sugar was at a level classified as diabetic. He’s grateful that he found out sooner rather than later in order to prevent serious health consequences. Through trial and error, Kent has learned about his strengths and weaknesses and is now able to work with (or around) them to accomplish his goals. His overall goal is to “be healthier next year than I am right now, in order to have a small measure of peace of mind.”

Kent said that much of his success is due to the influence of his Apple Health Coach™. “My coach helped me set reachable goals. She’s also been a good cheerleader by providing me encouragement. Up until now, my health goals were to avoid weight gain and get in good enough shape each year to play softball.” Now Kent has aimed even higher and is working toward improving his health for a lifetime.

His advice to others is to just focus on being healthy. “Losing weight was never my main goal- it came along with the changes I made. Decide what you want and what you’re willing to do to get there. For example, I wanted to lower my blood sugar, so I cut back on Pepsi and other unhealthy foods in my diet. I haven’t completely cut them out, but I’ve cut back. I’m a fan of setting and reaching goals you can consistently obtain. It’s like making extra payments to principal on a mortgage; money paid to principal early-on will have a larger affect than the same amount paid later on.”

Kay Kashanipour with Harmons

Reaching her weight loss goal is something Kay Kashanipour of Harmon’s has wanted to do for some time. After many battles with her weight, she is pleased to report that she is now well on her way to achieving her weight loss goal and has subsequently lowered her blood pressure. Kay says that the Apple Program® has been a big motivator in supporting her weight loss goals.

The program’s personalized wellness portal and one-on-one coaching have all been incredibly helpful and motivating for Kay. Her Apple Health Coach® has been a very positive influence for her in helping Kay improve her diet and design an exercise program. “She knows her stuff and gives me the support I need,” reports Kay. “Her suggestions for post workout meals have been great!”

Her coach has helped her set up short term goals in order for her to reach her long term weight loss goal by incorporating physical activity, whether using her WII Fit, treadmill, or stationary bike. She has also been adding strength training in her workouts by using resistance bands and other things. In addition to increasing her physical activity with cardo and strength-training, Kay has also focused on improving her diet by implementing ideal amounts of water and limiting late night snacking. She has found that filling her time in the evenings with reading and other activities keeps her from unnecessary eating.

“Getting to my ideal weight and staying there is something I’ve wanted to do all my life, says Kay. “I’ve lost weight in the past but have never been able to lose it and keep it off. This time, however, I feel like I have the support and education I need to keep it off. People I talk to are astounded that we have the opportunity to engage in a program like this at work. It really is great!”

Kay’s future goals include continuing in lowering her BMI and blood pressure as she continues in the Apple Program. She has a new grandbaby and would like to be able to be an active part of her life and to play with for years and years to come. Her advice to others is to delve right in to the Apple Program. “You can’t beat this program. Our company pays us to get healthier! You can’t beat that either. If I can do this, you can too!”

Jennifer Pretorius with Harbor Medical

Harbor Medical’s Jennifer Pretorius has taken the path to get her health scores to optimum levels. She’s done so by working towards her weight loss goals and incorporating day-to-day changes like increasing her exercise and watching her portions.

Losing weight is something Jennifer’s wanted to do for a long time, but now, with the help of the Apple Program®, her goals have become reality. One key factor in her weight loss was changing the way she ate. Jennifer began lowering her portion sizes and limiting sweets. She says that she also enjoys preparing “anything with chicken.”

Walking on a regular basis has been another key factor in Jennifer’s success with her weight loss goals. She even enjoys participating in Martial Arts when she has a few extra minutes.

Jennifer reports that, “Having an Apple Health Coach® helps keep me on track. She’s referred me to great articles on various health issues that have been beneficial for me.” She says that her Apple Health Coach is her favorite thing about participating in the Apple Program.

Since making these changes she’s noticed that she’s not only lost weight but also improved her energy levels. Even people around her have noticed her increased energy, which makes Jennifer feel great!

Her future health goals include continuing to lose weight and lower her cholesterol. She is optimistic that the wellness program will continue to play a role in her success by keeping her up-to-date with health issues and suggestions.

Jennifer is grateful for the changes she has made with her health. Her advice to others is to, “Keep trying! If at first you don’t succeed, try again!”

Teri Brown with Equitable Life & Casualty

Teri Brown of Equitable Life & Casualty has learned tremendous tools since joining the Apple Program® that have helped her improve her health and well-being. The fitness tips and nutrition ideas her Apple Health Coach® has educated her with have given her the skills she needs to manage her diabetes. Since incorporating her new lifestyle, Teri has not only lost weight, she’s also controlling her diabetes and has noticed a great increase in her overall energy level.

“The things that have been most helpful since joining the program are the tips my coach has given me to help me fit diet and exercise into my busy schedule,” says Teri. “I have a Total Gym I use on nights that I don’t have school. When I have 15 minutes to spare in the evenings, I’ll do the Bender Ball workout. My coach also suggested exercise videos, which I bought and have helped mix up my routine, as they incorporate strength training and cardio. Aside from the exercise, I’m also focusing on improving my diet by eating more salads and protein, refraining from high end carbs like breads, and eating more fresh vegetables (not as much fruit because it tends to raise my blood sugar). Doing all these things have helped change my life.”

“I feel like I wouldn’t have made these achievements in my health without the Apple Program and especially my Apple Health Coach. She gives me a lot of encouragement. Checking in on my progress regularly helps a lot. The goals I’m working toward have been something I’ve wanted to do for a long time, but it’s finally starting to happen!”

The improvements Teri has made with her health have been apparent in fulfilling even small, day-to-day tasks. The area where she lives, for example, requires her to park a small distance from her home and now she appreciates the exercise she is getting walking to and from her car. She’s even taking the stairs more often at her workplace.

Her future goals are to get to her ideal weight and continue to live a healthier and happier lifestyle. Her advice to others is to, “Live day to day. If you look too far into the future it’s easy to get discouraged. It’s best to focus on what you can do that day to improve your lifestyle.”

Jeri Wayman of Taylor Electric

Jeri Wayman of Taylor Electric has, as she refers to it, “given away” 90 pounds this past year while on the Apple Program®. By taking hold of the things that are important to her, Jeri has made the changes with her health that she’s wanted to for a long time in order to be around for her children and grandchildren. Her motivation and determination to stick with her dietary and exercise routines have enabled her to not only shed weight, but also to improve her diabetic state to the point where she no longer has to take insulin.

Jeri decided to make changes in her life when her brother began losing weight. Her motivation has led her to sticking to her dietary goals 100%. She hasn’t cheated on her diet once this past year, even while on a cruise! She’s been following a program called Advanced Weight Loss® which involves the consumption of two protein bars, two protein drinks, and a soup on a daily basis. To ensure she’s nutritiously balanced, she also takes a multivitamin and omega 3 fish pill daily.

In addition to her new dietary habits, Jeri engages in physical activity by attending Curves Gym four times a week where she does all-over strength training. She also goes on walks three times a week and has recently begun incorporating the use of an at-home stationary bike. Jeri says that the exercise she gets is great for her brain!

Not long ago Jeri went in to see her diabetic doctor who was shocked by her new appearance. He complimented her changes and new lifestyle habits and reminded her that the older we get, the more exercise we need.

Jeri says that the changes she has made have not only come because of her motivation to change, but also from the influence of the Apple Program and her Apple Health Coach®. “My coach helps me overcome any negative thoughts. She also helps me look at things from a clear perspective. Having to check in with her on a regular helps me stay focused,” Jeri said. “The Apple Program has been a big stepping stone in the direction I’m headed.” She is grateful that her company has offered this program to her and her coworkers.

The changes Jeri’s made have made all the difference in her life. “I’m a better person, I’m stronger, and I enjoy doing things more. Life is fun!” Jeri’s goals from here are to maintain the success she’s had by adding even more exercise. She wants to get to her ideal weight and stay there. “I want to feel good all the time,” states Jeri, “life’s too precious and too short not to feel good.”

Her advice to others is to, “Be dedicated with the decision you make. Let others around you inspire you, but remember no one can change for you.”

Pam Bair with Utah County

Pam Bair of Utah County has significantly improved her health and well-being with the assistance of the Apple Program®. She began making changes in her lifestyle by building upon the healthy habits she already enjoyed in her life.

Pam is an avid gardener who has harvested the benefits of it, as apparent in her new dietary lifestyle. Gardening has also allowed her to reap many health benefits because of the physical exertion needed to keep a thriving garden. By increasing her efforts in gardening, Pam has not only lost weight but has also greatly improved other aspects of her health profile; like lowering her blood pressure, for example.

Much of Pam’s success is due to her new mentality toward her eating habits. She refrains from stating that she’s on a diet to prevent her from experiencing feelings of deprivation; instead she sees it as a new and improved way of life. She makes sure to incorporate plenty of in-season produce like pomegranates, apples, oranges, watermelon, cantaloupe, tomatoes, carrot sticks, or cucumbers; anything fresh that she can add to her lunch.

Her new approach to eating has left her feeling more satisfied after meals and she no longer has sugar cravings. Aside from focusing on a balanced diet, Pam makes sure to get in some form of exercise- whether it’s playing racquetball with her daughter, doing a yoga video at home, or simply gardening. These activities help keep her relaxed and she experiences less joint and muscle pain. She also states that the changes she has made with her diet and exercise routines have given her more energy to deal with the stresses of life.

Pam says she’s been able to stay focused and determined with her goals due to the accountability features of the Apple Program. “Tracking my goals and talking with my coach regularly helps me stay focused. If ever I start to wander from my goals, my coach gives me the advice I need to get back on track.”

Pam’s changes have helped her get a grasp on events that have transpired in her life. “It’s the first time in a long time that I feel like I have the energy to cope with life’s stressors. I also feel like I have more balance in my life since making these changes with my health.”

Pam’s future goals include losing 25 more pounds so she will continue to have the energy and strength she needs to deal with life. She plans to lose the weight by continuing on with the things she’s been incorporating in her diet and exercise regimens.

Her advice to others is “Bloom where you are planted.” Pam reminds others that by sticking to the things you know are right for you, you too can have success with your goals.

Rina Roy from Utah County

Rina Roy of Utah County has lost 26 pounds since joining the Apple Program®! She has done so by completely changing her lifestyle. When she moved to her current home, she became more sedentary, and with the stress of school and work she gained 40 pounds. She soon decided to alter her life and began doing so by joining the Apple Program.

Since that time Rina has lost weight by becoming more aware of her food consumption and exercise habits. The design of the program has worked well for Rina. “Having an Apple Health Coach® to report to was a key piece in my change process,” reports Rina. “She was patient and explained things to me in detail. She was always encouraging me and cheering me on, even in the beginning when I had a hard time eating my veggies! She rejoiced with me in every pound I lost!”

The changes Rina has made have given her more energy, boosted her mood, helped her relax, and even upped her self-esteem. “When I eat healthy and exercise I feel better. It gives me a different perspective; I see life in positive ways, even if I sometimes don’t feel well physically; if I make it a point to be healthy and exercise, my brain gets the message that I care about my health, and it responds positively.”

The alterations Rina has made in her life since joining the program have helped her realize that there were certain foods that acted almost as poison to her body. “I’m glad I learned what my body needed and what it didn’t. I’m also glad that I can teach my kids how to eat healthy. I’ve learned creative things I can do to keep them healthy.”

Rina attributes her success to her determination to change, the Apple Program, her Apple Health Coach, Larissa, and her husband. Rina has said, “The Apple Program has given me the push I needed to change. The incentive my company offered also had an influential part.” Rina’s goals from this point are to put more focus on her exercise by spinning three days a week and doing pilates two days a week. She plans on losing another 20 pounds this year. Her advice to others is to, “Start now. It’s never too late to be healthy!”

Kenny Farnsworth with Rhodes Bake-N-Serv

Kenny Farnsworth of Rhodes Bake-N-Serv has maintained optimal health with the assistance of the Apple Program®. Having an Apple Health Coach® to report to on a regular basis has helped Kenny remain focused with his short and long-term health and fitness goals. Also, the new Apple Portal Website® has made tracking his efforts a much easier and more easily accessible.

Kenny has been in great shape throughout his life, however, he chose to take part in the Apple Program to improve his odds of being healthy for years to come. Although he wasn’t required to, Kenny chose to be linked with an Apple Health Coach so he had someone to be accountable to. His coach inspired him to set reasonable, obtainable goals in regards to diet and exercise. He took that challenge by setting goals to exercise six days a week and to strive to eat the recommended servings of fruits and vegetables. He has been able to meet his goals by participating in yoga, cycling, and kite boarding. Because kite boarding requires high levels of fitness to be successful, he has to make sure he’s meeting his exercise goals to ensure he can continue to participate in the highly intense sport.

To ensure he’s meeting his fitness goals, he makes sure he schedules time six days a week for exercise. Kenny also eats plenty of bananas and apples and has a serving of fruit before eating anything else at a meal to meet his dietary goal. He has come to learn that it takes planning ahead in both areas to be certain his goals are met.

Since taking part in the Apple Program, Kenny has noticed that he’s in better shape and has more energy to get his tasks accomplished. As one who wants to stay active the rest of his life, so he can participate in the sports and activities he loves, he’s constantly striving to get in better shape by focusing on reaching his short and long-term goals.

Kenny wishes he could communicate how much better a person’s life would be if they would take the time to exercise. He recommends finding an exercise that you enjoy, that’s fun, and to strive to do it every day! If you do, you can increase your odds of having a happier and more successful lifestyle for years and years to come.

Lynda Labrum with Stores Online

Lynda Labrum with Stores Online has lost over 25 pounds due to her focus and determination on improving her health and lifestyle. Not only does she feel better since making changes to her exercise and nutrition regimens, she’s also happy that her health is headed in the direction that will enable her to be around to play with and live to see her 10 grandchildren be married.

Lynda began making alterations to her lifestyle so she could be a better example of health to her family. Her long term goal was ultimately to lose weight and keep it off, which she’s done by focusing on short-term goals like limiting sweets, drinking ample amounts of water, consuming smaller portions, and sticking to an exercise routine. She’s also incorporated a daily routine of mixing two tablespoons of flaxseed into half a cup of milk. These things have led to her shedding weight and improving her cholesterol levels.

Lynda admits when she first joined the Apple Program® she felt it was just another thing she had to do, but she says, “As I got to know my Apple Health Coach® I really came to enjoy the program. Without the program I probably wouldn’t have seen the results I have. The program, along with a gym pass, has made all the difference.”

One of the most helpful things her coach suggested was to divide up her lunch, instead of eating it all at the same time. “I now eat my lunch throughout the day. I have fruits, vegetables, and a sandwich, but I eat some in the morning, some during lunch, then I have an afternoon snack. It helps curb my appetite, and I’ve found that I’m now no longer eating late at night.”

“The goals I had, as far as weight loss, were more like a dream and idea I had. Losing weight isn’t easy when you enjoying cooking, but it’s all worked out. Having a supportive husband has helped,” says Lynda. She continues, “Although at the beginning of all this, the money and discount on our insurance premium motivated me, I now find that I just want to be healthy and I see that I can. I know that losing weight will help repair and prevent future health problems.”

Lynda attributes much of her success to her Apple Health Coach, Bobbie, who’s been patient, kind, and professional. Her high stress level also motivated her to make changes. She wanted to find something that would reduce it, and has found that an improved diet combined with exercise has reduced her stress. “Life has stress,” says Lynda, “but I’ve learned you can’t get rid of it all together; but you can learn things and find ways to deal with it.” Through the winter, she’s remained constant with her exercise goal by working out at home on a stationery bike.

Her hard work has paid off, as she’s lost two dress sizes and has gained a feeling of success in an area she says she’s struggled with. “My family is all very proud of me, and I get a lot of encouragement from them, which helps. I feel better, and I enjoy the little things like being able to sit cross-legged and crawl on the floor with my grandkids! I also feel better in my head!” Her future goals are to maintain her weight loss by continuing to incorporate the changes she’s made in her life as well as continuing to improve her BMI.

Lynda’s advice to others is, “Don’t stop! If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again! Talk to people, talk to a friend that exercises or talk to a coach! Picture the goal in your mind, and see in your mind what you’re wishing. Wishes really do come true with a little help and a lot of hard work!”