Janette Amodeo
February 2012
Hi, my name is Janette Amodeo. I’m 47 years old and prior to coming to Exertec, most days I felt as though I was 80, a very old 80. I was obese, have rheumatoid arthritis and prone to stress fractures in my feet. To top it off, I had a fall from a ladder causing severe trauma to my right arm. Even two years after my fall, I still found it hard to do some daily activities such as scrubbing a pot or reaching behind me. I didn’t see how I could possibly exercise yet I knew I had to do something.
I looked into Exertec and found that the water exercise classes fit perfectly into my crazy work schedule so I decided to give them a try. My first day in the water, I learned that even the passive motion of the little waves moving against my arm and wrist caused me pain and I quickly threw in the towel.
I had signed up for the fresh start program and I chose Tricia as my trainer because I learned that she had experience working with persons that are rehabbing from injury. I spent my first few training sessions coming up with health and dieting questions so that Tricia would spend time with me in the classroom. Truth was that I was scared to work out. After a few sessions in the classroom, somehow Tricia convinced me to try some strength training. I couldn’t believe it but was actually able to use the machines she had me try. I continue seeing Tricia 2 to 3 times per week and with her encouragement she continues to get me to do things I never thought I was capable of. She helps me with cardio by working me on the elliptical, bike and the treadmill. We sometimes work on balance and she continue to mix up my strength training with all kinds of new exercises. I never know what to expect from Tricia except that I know I will get a good workout and she will not let me give up. She continues to encourage me and keeps me going.
So many wonderful things have happened since I've been working with Tricia. My joints feel much better now that I have lost 48 pounds, I am actually able to swim laps and jog on the treadmill. The best part is my self esteem has skyrocketed to the point that I have started dating after 7 years of being single. I am so excited to continue on this weight/loss healthy life style journey with Tricia as my coach.