The 3 Factors that Changed his Life...
And none of them were his diet!
23 July 2022 By Coach Amanda Basek
Reading Time: < 7 Minutes
July holds a special patriotic place in many hearts. We celebrate our freedom as a Nation on the 4th with fireworks and BBQ’s. We wave our Flag and show a little more gratitude to those who serve(ed) our country. If you who know me personally, I divide my occupational passion between patriotism and wellness by doing two things:
- Working with U.S. Military veterans and Law Enforcement Officers
- Helping people to lead healthier lives.
Today I’d like to highlight someone that covers both! Allow me to introduce you to Petty Officer 2nd Class Tommy Aguon, a culinary specialist at Coast Guard Station Cleveland Harbor.
Looking at his physique today, you’d never know Tommy was once nearly 300 lb. and battling depression.
- Like so many people, Tommy experienced an injury that led to weight gain. In his case, the tear of his Achilles that led to surgery and the arduous task of relearning how to walk.
- Like so many servicemembers serving their country, Tommy was away at times, serving on a boat with the Coast Guard.
- And like all of us, the Pandemic took its toll. Not only did it lead to further isolation, but his father fell into a coma from COVID…
Tommy’s experience is not unconventional or unique. In many ways, though exacerbated by COVID, Tommy simply experienced the challenges of life that we all face and like so many of us, it led to depression and weight gain.
Yet today, Tommy is a 210(ish), lean and mean body building competitor making his way through the sport, recently earning a 3rd Place Finish, and hoping to earn his pro-card one day!!!
What kept Tommy going?
- His Father: Tommy knew that his dad would tell him to never give up!
- His Daughters: Tommy wanted to be a better role model for his two young daughters
- His Money: Tommy invested in a trainer and simply put, parting with his hard-earned money kept him accountable.
The lesson here?
“When the why is Powerful, the how is simple.”
So, with the “why” in place, how did he actually do it? When explaining it, Tommy broke it down into three distinct elements:
- Strength & Cardio Training 6x Per Week
- A Spartan Diet (lots of protein & veggies, some carbs & a little fat)
- Rest & Recovery days that included indulging his sweet tooth with a slice of cheesecake!
Throw in a few self-care rituals like Epsom salt baths and chiropractic adjustments, and Tommy feels a new freedom (not punishment) to be a happier, healthier version of himself!
What’s next for Tommy?
He’s got competitions in August and October and hopes to earn his pro card while continuing to share his experience with shipmates seeking similar self-improvement. All the while he’s studying for his bachelors in Sports & Exercise Science.
And his Advice?
Tommy’s advice to anyone beginning their wellness journey is simple: Get a support system in place! Perhaps start with a coach; but, definitely involve family!
Tommy’s story is inspiring on many levels. Whether you are a veteran struggling with PTSD, or a civilian dealing with mental health issues, or just someone looking to live the best version of his or her life, Tommy’s story is a good reminder that you’re not along in your struggle, and that YOU can do the same thing too!
Clean up some of those unhealthy habits, be patient with your body, have a plan (and do your best to stick to it), involve experts where possible, establish a support system (preferably in family), and make sure you clearly define your powerful “why”!
And for those of you wondering how Tommy’s dad is doing…he’s ok! Not quite able to do things at the pace he used to; but like us, able to use his son’s example as evidence that with the right elements in place, we are all capable of discovering our best selves!
Thanks Tommy!
-Coach Amanda