Adriano (May 2015)

READING testimonials from other Amazing 12 graduates, it’s apparent how everyone has their own reasons for embarking on what is a unique and often intense, testing and enriching journey.

For me, as a coach, the pleasure isn’t just about seeing the transformation taking place and delivering the results my clients have paid and trusted in me to bring about.

I am only a part of the process – the guide, motivator and coach. But the client has to do all the graft. They have to find the discipline, focus and motivation to keep striving and working to achieve their goal, which is to become the best version of themselves from the stimulus the program provides.

I had my doubts before starting about whether Adriano could apply himself with the dedication required.

His attendance in CrossFit classes had been erratic, he worked in London and therefore had a long daily commute there and back and to say he was fond of Italian food was putting it mildly.

But, thankfully, he proved those reservations were totally misplaced. His discipline was extraordinary. It’s deeply rewarding for me to see how the A12 has provided a platform for him to continue his physical development.

But he has grown beyond the improved physique and strength gains. Mentally, this has given Adriano the confidence he was before lacking.

What many don’t know is that several years ago he had a serious fight with cancer, which he overcame, and, quite understandably, has shaped his attitude to life, which is to make the most of all the opportunities that come his way.

Adriano, 40, does a great job of it.

“Doing the Amazing 12 has been a very emotional journey to say the least,” he told me. “It clearly exposed my physical weaknesses and it has been a huge challenge to overcome the idea I had of myself.

“Mental toughness – that was the biggest challenge. I had to apply to myself a very tough discipline as I’m the sort of person that can get easily distracted.

“Doing CrossFit, I was struggling with feeling like I was mentally weak. Since I started last year [2014], I saw all these amazing people around me that during the hardest of workouts would go through and overcome pain and fatigue!

“In these 12 weeks doing the Amazing 12 I’ve learned so much about myself and my body. After my illness [non-Hodgkin Lymphoma], I become a bit self-conscious about it [my body].

“I must say I could never thank you enough for pushing me and giving me an opportunity even though you had your doubts!”