First Struggle- Getting Started, Coach Kevin Tamte

Getting started can feel overwhelming—even terrifying. For me, it was both. I knew my lack of confidence, dissatisfaction with my body image, and constant aches and pains needed to change. But where do you begin when the options seem endless and the path forward feels uncertain? Instead of taking action, I avoided it altogether—for far too long.

My journey began with a simple step: an elliptical machine my parents gave me. It wasn’t much, but it was a start. I approached it with hesitation, unsure of what to expect. I didn’t have a structured plan, only a single goal: to lose weight. At first, I used the elliptical for just 15 to 30 minutes, two to three times a week. Even that small effort felt monumental. Progress came slowly. After all, the weight didn’t appear overnight, and rebuilding my energy and cardiovascular health wouldn’t happen overnight either.

Gradually, I improved. Over time, those short sessions turned into an hour on the elliptical every night. That consistency became my first major victory. It taught me an important lesson: small, consistent steps—no matter how insignificant they might seem—add up to big wins over time.

Around the same time, I began focusing on my nutrition. One of my first realizations was that I was drinking a six-pack of soda every day—and no water. That had to change. Swapping soda for plain water was incredibly challenging at first. Plain water? With nothing in it? It felt like an impossible adjustment. Most of us can easily down sugary or alcoholic drinks in a few hours, yet struggle to drink eight glasses of water in an entire day. But I committed to the change, one glass at a time.

My beginning wasn’t flashy. There were no grand plans or overnight transformations. But those small steps—getting on the elliptical and drinking more water—laid the groundwork for what would become a life-changing journey.

Stay tuned for the next post, where I’ll share how the nutrition changes I made played a pivotal role in transforming my health. Let’s continue this journey together!

Contact me here: https://ohptfw.lpages.co/coach-kevin

From Struggle to Strength: Transform Your Life

Our bodies are our whole world. They carry us through life, enabling us to move, play, and experience joy. But what happens when your body feels more like a burden than a blessing? Are you tired of living every day in pain, unable to enjoy simple activities like playing with your kids or grandkids? Are you missing out on your favorite hobbies because your body won’t cooperate? And what about your confidence—do you find it hard to hold your head high?

I’ve been there. Let me share my story.

In 2016, I was at my heaviest, weighing 260 pounds. I felt trapped in a body that hurt with every move. My self-image was at an all-time low, and I lacked the confidence to truly enjoy life. Everyday tasks felt like challenges, and I knew I needed a change. So, I started small. I worked on the elliptical and began paying closer attention to my nutrition. Those initial steps helped, but eventually, I hit a plateau.

Coach & Trainer: Kevin Tamte, CPT, TFW Level 2

That’s when I decided to take a leap and join a local gym. It was my first time ever stepping into a gym, and I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t overwhelming. I was searching for progress but didn’t know where to begin. Thankfully, I hired a trainer who took me under his wing. He guided me, not just in losing weight but in developing a passion for improving my body and life.

Fast forward to today, and I’ve learned something important: this journey isn’t a sprint—it’s a marathon. There are going to be ups and downs, but the beauty of it all is that setbacks aren’t failures as long as you choose to rise again. Each stumble is a chance to learn, grow, and keep moving forward.

Through years of training—both myself and others—I’ve discovered how incredible it feels to live a life without physical limitations. The confidence I’ve gained doesn’t just come from how I look but from what I’ve overcome. And I want you to experience that same transformation.

If you’re ready to reclaim your life but not sure where to start and feeling overwhelmed with everything, I’m here to help. Let’s take that first step together. Because you deserve to move better, feel better, and live with unshakable confidence.

Stay tuned for continued posts about my journey from struggling to strength. I’ll share more insights, challenges, and triumphs to inspire you on your path to transformation.

Contact me if you are ready to take a step towards a better way of living at https://ohptfw.lpages.co/coach-kevin

Why some men don't strength train?

Author: Brian Waldo MS CSCS CES PN WLS FNS MATjs, TFW

In over 30 years of working in the health and fitness industry, one thing I have realized is that getting yourself to the gym is difficult mentally for many men and women alike. Some of the reasons may be similar, yet for men I believe it is even a little more challenging at times. Specifically when it comes to strength training, which by the way is the fountain if youth if there is one, many men often just don't get engaged and stay engaged.

There are several reasons why some men may choose not to engage in strength training. Here are five common factors:

1. Lack of Time: Many men feel that their schedules are too busy, making it difficult to find time for regular strength training sessions. Work, family responsibilities, and other commitments can take precedence over fitness.

2. Intimidation or Lack of Knowledge: The gym environment can be intimidating, especially for those who are new to strength training. Men may feel unsure about how to use equipment correctly or worry about being judged by others, leading to avoidance.

3. Perceived Complexity: Some men may believe that strength training is too complicated or requires a specific program, equipment, or expertise that they do not possess. This perception can deter them from starting or engaging in a consistent routine.

4. Preference for Other Activities: Many men may prefer cardiovascular exercises, sports, or other physical activities that they find more enjoyable. They might prioritize activities like running, cycling, or team sports over strength training.

5. Fear of Injury: Concerns about injury can be a significant deterrent. Men may worry that they might hurt themselves while lifting weights or performing exercises, particularly if they lack proper guidance or experience.

Addressing these concerns through education, support, and creating a welcoming environment can encourage more men to incorporate strength training into their fitness routines. We have a course for men that is 12 weeks long and instructed by Coach Kevin Tamte! If you are curious about this group course or 1\1 training to get started contact Coach Kevin here at https://ohptfw.lpages.co/mens-12-week-2