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From Hesitant to Strong: How Guided Training Helped Renae Build Strength and Confidence
Renae Aguilar didn’t begin her PowerStrength journey lightly. A recent doctor’s appointment—and lab results she wasn’t happy with—pushed her to take action. She knew it was time to get healthier, get stronger, and feel better. But like many adults in their 40s, 50s, and 60s, she wasn’t sure where to start or how to train safely and effectively.
She knew walking wasn’t enough anymore. And she knew trying to do it alone wasn’t the answer.
“I didn’t join a regular gym because I didn’t know how to do the exercises properly, and I didn’t want to hurt myself,” she said.
That uncertainty, combined with back and hip pain, had held her back. But 8-months ago, she came across PowerStrength’s Personal Training Program on Facebook—and something clicked.
“When it said 40 and over, and the small classes, that’s what really interested me,” Renae said. “I knew I couldn’t afford just a personal trainer. But this was affordable, and it’s still like having a personal trainer.”
Today, Renae looks, moves, and feels like a different person.
FINDING THE RIGHT FIT
Like many who join PowerStrength, Renae arrived nervous—but hopeful. The weekend before her first session, she had back spasms bad enough to make her consider canceling.
“I was extra nervous,” she said. “But I reached out, and they said they could work around it. I had no trouble during my first workout, and a couple of weeks later, I’ve not had any back trouble since.”
From her very first sessions, she felt supported.
“The coaches are great. They help you if you have questions. You don’t feel like you can’t ask. And if you’re doing something wrong, they correct you and explain what you need to do very well.”
She felt the same connection with the other members training alongside her.
“It’s nice to be around people who have the same mindset,” she said. “Some of the women are quite a bit stronger than I am, and that’s inspiration. And then there are people who aren’t as far along, so you can help boost them up. It’s nice having the different levels.”
REAL RESULTS THAT SHOW UP EVERYWHERE
Renae came into the program already down some weight from walking, but she quickly noticed different changes once she started strength training.
“In less than a year, I’ve lost 45 pounds,” she said. “The muscle tone is what I noticed the most.”
She also gained strength that she can feel every day—especially at work.
“I work in an automotive parts warehouse. There are heavy parts out there, and just being able to pick up some of that stuff now—I see it there. When I’m working, I notice it a lot.”
Her back and hip pain, which had once been constant, are now gone.
“I was having spasms, and it was definitely a big deal,” she said. “It’s way better.”
Beyond the physical changes, the biggest shifts have been in her energy, routine, and overall outlook.
“Energy level, I definitely have more. I don’t like to sit still anymore,” she said. “I sleep better. I’m in a really good sleep routine now. Mentally, just happier. I feel good, physically and mentally.”
Family and friends have noticed the difference, too.
“One of my dad’s best friends has lifted weights his whole life, and he saw me after quite a while. His comment was, ‘Look at those arms—they’re almost as big as mine.’”
Asked how comments like that make her feel, she smiled.
“Good. It makes you want to do more.”
GUIDANCE, STRUCTURE, AND RESULTS
Renae joined the Personal Training Program for Adults in their 40s, 50s, and 60s because she wanted direction. What she found was a 100% coach-led system that gives clients individualized coaching in a small-group environment—1 to 6 people per session—with certified trainers who know how to modify movements, teach proper technique, and help each person progress at their own pace.
“You do get the one-on-one, but you get to work independently,” she said. “They come around, they check on you, they correct you if you need correcting. It’s a really, really good place to be—especially if you’ve not done it before and you don’t know how to do the stuff correctly.”
Her goals now are to lose another 5 to 10 pounds and continue building muscle. And she plans to keep pushing forward.
“PowerStrength is amazing,” she said.
A POWERFUL REMINDER
You don’t have to know how to train. You don’t need to feel confident when you start. You simply need to take the first step.
Renae did—and she gained strength, confidence, energy, and a healthier life she can feel every day.
For adults in their 40s, 50s, and 60s looking for guidance, accountability, and a program built for them, Renae’s experience shows exactly what’s possible.
READY TO MAKE YOUR NEXT 10 YEARS YOUR STRONGEST EVER?
Men and Women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s who want to get stronger and have more energy can join the Personal Training Program at PowerStrength at any time. No previous workout experience is required as each program is customized to the fitness and ability level of each individual.
Multiple personal training sessions are offered in the early morning, mid-morning, late afternoon, and evening. Find your nearest PowerStrength location – Alpine, Kentwood, Jenison, Plainfield, or Holland – with a new Byron Center location that just opened.
Click HERE to learn more program details and schedule your risk-free consultation.
