It was on April 8th 2006, when my life changed. I was a 250 lb. 49 year-old man who had struggled with weight most of my life. Every year, with good intentions I made a resolution to drop that ‘extra baggage.’ But nothing ever really worked– workout tapes were repetitive and gyms proved to be an isolated bored. Then, my wife saw an ad for “Extreme Boot Camp ™,” a six-week, intense, military-based fitness program, and she convinced me to give it a shot.

Well 9 months later, I’m floored with the results. I’ve lost 40 lbs. and a total of 25 inches, dropped 6% body fat, and went from a 10:54 mile run to a 7:15. And there are other benefits– my legs don’t go numb from standing, I don’t snore anymore, I lowered my LDL cholesterol 35 points and my self-esteem is through the roof.

Making the decision to join “Extreme Boot Camp™” was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Now don’t kid yourself, Boot Camp takes a commitment like no other. But Linda Taix has created a program that has great variety and is always challenging at whatever your own fitness level may be. She has great instructors who make sure your form is good, while having fun cracking corny jokes. But the most fun is the camaraderie that develops during the whole process— fellow boot campers are always there giving support and encouragement— real friends that just happen to be sweaty.

So here’s to Linda Taix, to “The Extreme Boot Camp™” instructors, to my friends in the 5:30 a.m. Extreme class, and to my wife Victoria for being on ‘Team Doug’ and giving me the opportunity to be healthy and happy.

Here’s to being Fit, Fabulous and 50!