September 2026
This September, we are celebrating Nicole Hunter and the steady work she has put into her health. After recovering from a serious ankle fracture, Nicole started at Body Renew in early 2025. She began with cardio and simple machine exercises, then started strength training with Paul Norris. Nicole says she has lost close to 60 pounds, grown stronger, and found a gym community that makes her want to keep showing up.
Nicole Hunter: Member Testimonial
Two years ago, I had a trimalleolar ankle fracture requiring surgery, and even after recovering with physical therapy, I gained weight and became less interested in my health. I was 100 lbs over my regular body weight and knew I needed a serious change after my doctor determined I was close to being pre-diabetic. I worked on cleaning up my diet and starting to move more. I had gotten in shape a few times in my life, but never felt real excitement about exercise, and it was difficult to stick with as life got busy.
I started at Body Renew in early 2025 after Chris came to my work to talk about the benefits of joining. When he said that all it takes for change is going three times a week, I was all in! When I first worked out at BR, I did a few simple exercises on the machines and focused on cardio primarily. As the weight fell off and my confidence grew, I wanted to focus more on building muscle in order to stay mobile the rest of my life. That is when I chose to work with a trainer.
Paul not only ensures that I have correct form with my exercises, but he is also knowledgeable about which muscles are being worked and pays attention to my ability with each exercise. I knew a few things from working out in the past, but he helps me to understand the physiology of each exercise and why it benefits me.
Over the last 6 months, I have gained strength, lost weight, and increased my endurance with regular strength training sessions with Paul. After losing close to 60 lbs., I am still working toward my goal weight and body composition, but I feel confident and healthy, and now I actually like to work out.
One of the best things about Body Renew is the community. Everyone from Riley at the front desk who greets you with a smile, Paul and Chris who are always cheerful, and gym goers who are friendly and encouraging, make the environment warm and inviting. I have had strangers come up and give me kudos and high fives. Needless to say, they are now great gym friends! My husband even joined BR after seeing my progress and wanted to improve his health after a year of health issues. We now go at least four days a week, separately and together, and share stories of our progress.
I am grateful to have Paul Norris as my trainer to help guide me in building my strength, increasing my flexibility and agility while overcoming the mental barriers that come with building new habits. He reassures me and is both patient and kind when I am getting too impatient with my progress. Fitness encompasses both physical and mental commitment and I now have a positive mindset to get through challenging workouts and feel great! I can’t wait to see what we will do in the next 6 months!
Nicole's Trainer: Paul Norris
Personal Trainer
Nicole credits Paul with helping her use correct form and understand how each exercise supports her goals. She says his patience has helped her work through the mental side of building new habits. Coach Paul selected Nicole for this month’s spotlight.
Nicole’s story is still in progress. She says she and her husband now go to the gym at least four days a week, and she is looking forward to what the next six months bring.
Ready to begin your own fitness journey? Explore personal training in Anchorage.
