Sara is one awesome human.  Read on for a hilarious, honest, and very humble account of this woman’s journey to fitness.   This is Sara Felten’s story and you’re going to love it.

What do you do for a living?

I am a Senior Statistical Program Analyst within Computational Genomics at Mayo Clinic.

What’s your favorite thing to do outside of the gym?

I enjoy anything involving activity, really. I don’t like to sit still.  Some of my favorite things would be outdoor concerts, get-togethers with friends, interior decorating or landscaping, and traveling.

What made you decide to try Progression?

A friend nagged me for over 2 years before I eventually gave in and went to a friends and family day with her.  I’m glad she was persistent.

How long have you been at Progression?

It will be 2 years this December.

What was your experience with fitness like prior to joining Progression?

I’ve played sports ever since I was a little kid and always had a competitive drive; however, my cardio/endurance needed serious work.

What was your biggest fear when you started at Progression?

That I would not be able to keep up.  When I first started, I couldn’t run 200 meters without needing to stop and catch my breath… or avoid dying.

Favorite cheat day meal?

Even though I would never officially call pizza a “cheat meal”, ah Pizza!  And if you’re calling me a cheater, you might as well throw in a good Hefeweizen to wash it down with.

What goal(s) are you currently chasing?

Pull ups! And improving my cleans and snatches.  I haven’t quite figured out how to utilize my hips… yet!

What’s the hardest part about your fitness journey right now?

Learning that it is completely OK, (nobody is judging you… ever) to modify movements for any reason.

What’s one thing your fellow CFP’ers would be surprised to learn about you?

I have an extreme fear of public speaking.

What’s your favorite piece of advice you’ve gotten from a coach at Progression?

That it’s MY workout.

How has your outlook on health/fitness changed since starting at Progression?

Progression to me was a game changer.  Close to 3 years ago, I weighed around 100 pounds more than I do today.  Although I will not stand on a soap box and say Progression saved me, I will say that I attribute most of my focus and drive for a healthier lifestyle to the Progression community, as a whole.  Personally, I thrive on accountability and people pushing (mostly yelling at) me to be better.

What has been your fondest memory during your time at Progression?

Most definitely Friday Night Lights.

Why do you think you’ve stuck with Progression?

The Progression community and coaches are insanely incredible.

What would be your one piece of advice for someone who’s just joining Progression?

There may be times when you don’t feel it, or you’re simply having an off day.  A day where you’d like nothing better than to go home and plop yourself in front of the TV with a big bowl of (insert your go-to indulgence here); DON’T DO IT!  Instead of going in with the mindset of “I can’t”, go in with “I’ll try.”  Trust me, you will feel so much better if you just push through the can’t(s).