Gary Chabala, 62, Electrician and Musician, Bridgeville, PA.
How much weight have you lost? 40 pounds
What prompted your weight loss? The desire to be a competitive runner
How did you lose the weight? By eating healthier and training to run races from 5K’s to half marathons
How long did it take? The weight loss took about two years.
How many races have you participated in? About 40 a year for 15 years…at least 700 in total.
How many medals have you won? I probably placed in the top three for my age group at least 500 times.
What was the hardest part? The hardest part was to endure sore legs and various running injuries.
Most fun part of your weight loss? To feel so much better and have more energy
Most rewarding experience? Anytime I placed first, second or third in my age group in a race
Who/what inspires you when you feel like quitting? Other great runners that I compete against inspire me to do better.
How has this weight loss changed you life? I have more confidence and stamina in everything I do.
Have any advice for others who’d like to lose weight? Find an activity you enjoy and do it every chance you get.
Your must-have fitness equipment. Treadmill
Favorite training song: Anything by Tom Petty
Favorite healthy food: Salad
Favorite not-so-healthy food: Pizza
Funniest /weirdest/most awkward experience during your weight loss journey: During a half marathon at mile three, they were holding out Popsicle sticks with power-gel on them. I popped one into my mouth; it wasn’t power-gel, it was Vaseline!
Future goals: To win my age group in a half marathon
Gary, what an inspiration you are! Anyone at any age has the ability to exercise, especially if you’re doing something you love. Thank you for sharing your incredible story; I’m sure your accomplishments will motivate others to pursue fitness and get on the track to a healthier lifestyle. Keep up the great work! Fitz and the entire team at Fitzness.com!
