top of page

Member Spotlight: Jeff Gehris


Newport News Weight Gym Joe

We believe our members are the heartbeat of our great community and provide amazing inspiration to others overcoming their own challenges.

MEET JEFF:

1. When and Why did you first start coming to Coastal Strength & Fitness?

I recognize I need inspiration and encouragement to obtain a fitness goal. I needed to find a team that would inspire motivation for a healthy lifestyle. I started my Coastal Strength & Fitness journey after seeing many advertisements on Social Media. The team was quick to respond to my inquiry and made it easy to set up my initial appointment at a time convenient for me. They explained it was a holistic view of a healthy lifestyle (i.e., nutrition, relaxation, exercise) and we would focus on progress and celebrate successes along the journey. This was exactly the team for which I was searching.

2. What fitness activities/sports were you doing before you joined Coastal?

Before joining Coastal, I attempted to go it alone by frequenting a local do-it-yourself gym. I routinely walked on the treadmill and used the exercise machines. Not really knowing what I was doing or if I was doing it correctly. I attempted tracking food and exercise on apps.

3. What results have you seen since you joined Coastal Strength & Fitness?

Since joining Coastal, I have seen amazing results. I joined in October 2019. I was overweight (185+ lbs), not eating properly, and had no energy. I met with the team for nutrition and weight goals. They offered great advice and I was hooked. My first few weeks were challenging. I scheduled my sessions three times a week, started slow and left every session covered in sweat. Yet, I kept going back. Every few weeks, I took progress photos (for my eyes only). I also increased my workout sessions and changed my diet. I now work out five to six times a week.

I am ecstatic to say that 7 months later, I am down to 147 lbs and not shy at all about photos. At 46 years old, I never expected to have defined muscles..

4. What do you like most about Coastal Strength & Fitness?

I can't say there is one thing specifically that I like most about Coastal Strength & Fitness. They make it a family. They encourage you every step of the way. They are extremely knowledgeable regarding a healthy, fit lifestyle. They are there for you during the best and worst times. They adapt to a changing environment and continue to offer support and guidance in our new world. The people you meet, who workout right along side you are the best. They accept you for who your are and encourage you towards to your goals. We laugh, we sweat, we laugh some more and when one of us doesn't show up for a session, we reach out to ensure they are safe. We developed our own fun rules that even get the trainers laughing.

5. What is your favorite Coastal training day of the week and why?

My favorite Coastal training day is every day I get to go. Each session is different and focused on a specific program. Saturday Smackdowns are rough and I swore I would not attend but, here I am completing the Smackdown on a regular basis. For me, it is my networking time with a group of amazing people who share a common goal and truly care about me.

Lightning Round Questions:

1. What is your Spirit animal?

Wolf

2. If you were a Superhero, what would your super power be?

Observation & Strength

3. What is your favorite treat meal?

Sushi

Are you ready to begin your journey to a healthy, sustainable lifestyle?

Come visit us, meet our team, get to know us, learn more about our program, and experience our amazing culture, click here.

bottom of page