From the Publisher: “Wellness is more than mere numbers on a scale. Embark on a transformative journey towards sustainable weight loss as you explore a holistic approach to wellness and exercise. In this enlightening guide, you will discover the profound synergies between mental, emotional, and physical health while mapping a personal path to a more fulfilling and balanced life.
With practical insights, motivational tips, expert advice, and examples from the author’s personal journey, Wellness Beyond Weight Loss will prove to be your must-have companion in creating lasting change and a healthier, happier you.”
More info About the Author: “Born in 1968 and raised in Vandergrift, Pennsylvania (a small town about 40 minutes outside of downtown Pittsburgh), Christopher Howard later moved to New Kensington, Pennsylvania, where he would graduate from Valley High School in 1986.
Fatherhood at eighteen years of age sent him into the workforce where he was gainfully employed for seventeen years at a local area steel mill. More than halfway into qualifying for a pension, he transitioned into education. Returning to school at thirty-seven as a non-traditional student, he would go on to matriculate at the University of Pittsburgh and California University of Pennsylvania, earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in exercise science and health promotion.
In 2012, Chris established C. Howard Fitness, a successful personal training and rehabilitation studio located in Pittsburgh’s East End. A decade later in 2022, The Community Wellness Initiative of Pittsburgh (a nonprofit organization) was created as a way to give back to his community. The Community Wellness Initiative of Pittsburgh will look to partner with other nonprofits as well as provide resources for the uplifting and enrichment of the economically and systemically disadvantaged members of the community with the initial focus areas being fitness, finances, and nutrition.
Wellness Beyond Weight Loss reflects his journey, combining personal experiences and professional growth, highlighting the resilience and determination that define his life’s narrative…”
Author Site
Your book is about being healthy, but you weren’t a particularly healthy or health-conscious young man. When you decided to get healthy, did you know that you would stick with it?
I truly decided to get healthy during the holiday season in 2000. I knew that I wanted to make an enduring change and I prayed for just as much as well.
You began college in your 30s. Was there a time as an undergraduate that you almost quit?
I was 37 when I started my postsecondary education. There was never a time when I felt like quitting. I was totally committed to achieving my stated goal of earning my degree. However, there were a few times that I wondered if I made the right choice in leaving what was then thought of as a “steady and secure” future of working in a steel mill.
Can you talk a little bit about the culture shock going from working in a steel mill to becoming a college student at Pitt?
Starting my college career in essence 20 years after graduating high school was a big adjustment. Along with now having to work full-time, I was now an incoming freshman at Pitt at 37 years old. Unlike many of my fellow freshmen, I knew I was there to pursue exercise science as my major. The most difficult aspect of earning my undergraduate degree was wading through all of the general education classes (approximately 60 credits) prior to concentrating on my declared major.
Since starting Christopher Howard Fitness, how many people have you helped to train in person? What have you learned from them?
I have had the distinct pleasure in helping close to 150 people, and counting, with their wellness programming since the inception of starting my wellness practice.
When did you decide you wanted to write a book?
I kept every textbook during my time back at school. I knew that I would someday want to “capture” my thoughts and my journey as a non-traditional student. I did not know that it would take the form of writing my first book. I have since been bitten by the cathartic nature of writing and the joy in the sharing of knowledge and experiences. I encourage everyone to write in any form whether that be journaling, writing a book, etc.
What is the one piece of advice you have for anyone who wants to live a healthier life?
Take the long-term view of your health and wellness. Sometimes it may seem overwhelming, but try to embrace a decision-by-decision approach to physical activity, eating behaviors, stress management, sleep hygiene, etc. What is the one healthier choice in all of these areas that you can make today?
For more information about Christopher Howard and Wellness Beyond Weight Loss, visit christophereverettehoward.com.
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