Robin Merket: ASF Leander Athlete of the Month – April 2017

Robin Merket has been training at Austin Simply Fit for a little more than 2 years (she’s one of our first-ever Leander clients). During that time she has had the opportunity to work with several of our trainers including Mark Rogers. Most recently, she has been training with Lucas Orosco toward her health and fitness goals and is kicking ass along the way.

This 47-year old physician was chosen by Lucas as Athlete of the Month for ASF Leander because she committed to cleaning up her diet and giving it all she’s got in every training session in January. Within 6 weeks of deciding to commit to a healthy lifestyle – both in and out of the gym – her body fat drooped from 35% to 27% and she immediately started seeing the changes in her body and strength. Robin is living the dream; replacing her lost fat mass with brand new muscles! She is dedicated and consistent toward her goals. Robin makes her health and fitness a priority and it shows!  

Why did you decide to join ASF?  
I wanted to find a way to work out consistently since conventional gyms hadn’t worked for me.  I also had several knee surgeries which left my knee stiff and my leg weak, and so I struggled with many types of exercises I had done in the past. Working one on one with a trainer allowed me to customize my workouts, and has helped to make me accountable for my workouts.

What were your goals when you started?
Get stronger, become more fit in general.

How close are you to meeting them?
I’m definitely much stronger than when I started with ASF. My fitness level has improved.  I finally made some changes to my diet, so now I not only feel stronger but I’m beginning to really see the changes in my physique.

What changes have you noticed in your body, mind, spirit since starting at ASF?
I feel more confident in myself now. I don’t have as much neck or back pain after sitting at my desk after a long day.

Any surprises since starting at ASF?
Competing in 2 powerlifting meets.

Why do you like working out with Lucas?
He constantly challenges me, and has me lifting heavier than I ever really thought I was capable. He is also very laid back and on the quiet side like me, and is able to encourage me without yelling or screaming.  He is always giving me positive reinforcement.

What is it about Lucas/ASF that keeps you coming back?
I like seeing the results of our work. I like the flexibility of the workout schedule. I worked with Amanda and Hayden as well, and I appreciate the knowledge they all possess when it comes to personal training.

What are your goals & plans for the future at ASF?
I want to keep getting stronger. I hope to do more powerlifting meets in the future. And I hope this will enable me to get back to doing other activities that I had given up on after my knee surgeries.

Any advice you’d share with a newcomer to ASF?
Give it a try. Be persistent. And you will start to see and feel results.