Newton Resident Sheds 25 Pounds at Oak Square YMCA

NEWTON, Mass. – Last year, Joshua Boardman of Newton didn’t feel comfortable in his body. His love of food and lack of fitness structure led him to live a more sedentary lifestyle. It wasn’t until he started working out regularly with his personal trainer, Miles Earl, at the Oak Square YMCA that he developed a new sense of self-confidence. As we enter 2018, the 31-year-old is committed to living a healthier lifestyle.

“Initially, I was hesitant to work with a personal trainer,” says Boardman. “I tried a number of diet and exercise regimens in the past those didn’t work for me.. At the time, I didn’t have the best self-confidence.”

Boardman joined the Oak Square YMCA in Sept. 2016 and started working with Earl after about six months of failed attempts of weight loss. He started slowly, focusing mainly on cardiovascular training. Now, he cross-trains, incorporating weights and strength training exercises. He also follows a nutrition plan that reduces the amount of carbs he consumes and increases his water intake daily. The results speak for themselves. In one year, Boardman has lost 25 pounds. His blood pressure is lower. He has more energy. His clothes fit better.

“Initially, my overall goal was to lose weight for a vacation I have planned this February, but my priorities have changed” says Boardman. “In the New Year, I am committed to living a healthier lifestyle to be the best version of myself for me.”

“The YMCA takes a holistic approach to health and fitness – it’s not just about increasing muscle size, but taking care of the mind and body with the programs they offer,” says Boardman. “I found it was key is to not try to change everything at one time. Rather, identify and ease into an exercise and nutrition plan that works best for me, so that I can develop a healthier lifestyle. I am proud of the results that I currently see, and will continue to achieve. I couldn’t have done this without the support of my trainer.”

The YMCA of Greater Boston is the state’s leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities. Every day the Y works with thousands of men, women, and children to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. For more than 165 years, the Y has been developing skills and emotional well-being through education and training, welcoming and connecting diverse populations, preventing chronic disease and building healthier communities through collaborations and policymakers. For more information about the YMCA of Greater Boston and its health, fitness and education programs, visit: http://ymcaboston.org.