If I could, I would give 3.5 stars. I participated in the 6 week challenge in Largo, MD and it was challenging. First, prior to this, I was already working towards my weight loss goal at another facility and wanted to try something new (since March with this and my prior regular sessions I've lost over 70lbs). One of the conditions is to advertise for them, which includes Facebook check-ins. This is a clever way to expand your business, so I give the owner props for this. Now, I believe that I completed everything appropriately, but I have to wait to be cleared to get my money back. Most people want to know if the challenge is "real" and whether the incentive of losing weight for free is true (this is the only real reason why people participate in things like this). That will be known when and if I get my money back. I have friends and family who have asked about this, but their participation (like most people) its contingent upon whether they would get their money back.The workouts are very intense. You will sweat alot so it is imperative to drink about a gallon of water a day. During my second workout, I felt super odd, weak and sick and figured it was due to dehydration. You will learn alot of moves to incorporate on your own time at home or the gym. Since it is 5-6 days you may have to go there a week, your body will ache. At some point, you will be able to push past the pain, see a difference in your body and your ability to do things will change. THE PROGRAM WORKS IF YOU ARE WORKING!!! Another thing I really liked was the encouraging words that other clients provided as we completed the finisher. I also liked how informative the owner's nutritional guide was. I really liked the "fish and asprargus" diet near the end of the challenge if you appear to be falling short of making your weight. At the end of the workouts, we do finishers and run for a while. I am not a runner and in the beginning I finished last. Towards the end of the challenge, I finished somewhat in the middle. Other participants chant and clap as people make it to the end of the run and I really liked that. Did I lose the minimum weight? Yes, I actually lost 30.2lbs in 6 weeks and 9 after my first week. Is this something I would do again? I don't think so for various reasons. Some workouts were amazing and tough, but make sure you can actually walk out when you are finished. One of the things that I do not like (hate actually) is that there is one person looking over about 30 people which can be challenging in my mind. Someone with a knee/back problem or someone who overall lacks physical fitness because they are out of shape can hurt themselves. Also, working out is more so about great form instead of completed reps,but its hard to get someone to watch your form. A trainer is on the other side of the room while someone is in the process of hurting themselves. There were some exercises presented to use with modifiers. I personally I have a problem with my left knee and there are things that I cannot do properly because of it (deep lunges and box jumps). When you are working out amongst several people, you want to be able to perform and keep up with those who can. However, I urge people to know their limitations because YOU are the person who could be further injured or in the hospital. I was encouraged to do a box jump and the box was too high. i knew I could not do it, but was yelled at to do it anyway and was told I could be "caught" if I fell. I am not hurting myself doing something that I know I cannot do at the moment. I am hoping as time goes on and my weigh decreases I am able to do loads of box or tire jumps (it looks cool). Since this has ended, I've noticed that both of my knees are shredded. I am still working to meet my personal weight loss goal and I definitely feel it. On my first day, I was "yelled at" because I asked for a modifier for an exercise I could not do and was told to "just do it". How do you do something that you know you can't do? In trying to complete the workouts and finding out that some are too difficult to get good reps in, can actually deter people from wanting to complete as a result of embarrassment. With some things, I felt overwhelmed because I was unsure of whether I was doing it right or there was no modifier given and I physically could not do it. This is where the extra attention from staff "members" would be useful. There is a "science" to something like this. If I were smaller or weighed a certain amount, i would not participate in something like this with the expectation that I would get my money back. At some point, you will hit a plateau as you get smaller (word to the wise). If you choose this challenge, push yourself, be strong will and eager to make it to the finish line and eat CLEAN AS HELL. You might want to go to a gym or run outside of this to ensure you will lose the weight. If you want to complete the challenge successfully and get your money back, it's a must!!!!!!! read more

I first found out about the '20lb 6-Week Challenge' on Facebook. Initially, I was very skeptical because I was like "Free? What is the catch?" Then I went to orientation and was like "Ohhhh okay there is a catch" but after hearing about what they do, the testimonials, reading reviews I figured it is possible and why not give it a shot. I decided to invest in myself...I coughed up the $$$ determined to lose the 20lbs. After attending the nutrition class and seeing the meal plan options I thought it wouldn't be THAT bad, a lot of the options are food I eat anyways. The first week is the hardest. I was very sore and super tired but lost 6lbs. Some weeks my weight was stagnant, some days I would want to indulge in my cravings and I skipped a lot of weekends out just to not give into temptations like drinking. After 6 long weeks of working out very hard, going to classes 2 times a day, taking the stairs home, drinking a gallon of water EVERYDAY, I lost 24lbs and 6 inches off of my waist! This challenge was WORTH IT. 4 weeks in I even told myself that even if I don't lose the 20lbs it was worth the money, I can do exercises I couldn't have possibly done 2 months ago, I am more informed on what I should be eating, when and how much. I meal prep, I am still drinking water every day and don't plan on drinking anything else. I feel like I am in the best shape I have ever been. I am very thankful for this challenge. It really is all about the work you put in, yes getting my money back was my motivation but seeing that it was really working is what kept me going. I've tried so many diets, gyms and methods but this is the only thing I got significant results from. Everyone there is so encouraging - the Laurel coaches are awesome and the people doing the challenge keep me coming back. The rules we had to follow were a lot but it was easy! If you follow the instructions, stay dedicated and positive. You will see significant results. My only con about this program is that it does get expensive. Be prepared to spend a lot of money on groceries (not complaining). I am a college student so I couldn't afford the protein shakes, various pills and powders offered at the gym. I made my way to Vitamin Shoppe and purchased the same things there for half of the price offered at FOTC. The only things I used during the challenge was protein shake, glutamine, occasional pre-workout, and a 7-day detox pill. I was successful without all of the other supplements. I'm sure the gym is making A LOT of money so I wish they would provide somethings to us like a starter package with protein shakes and glutamine and Epsom salt, have sample protein shakes, or have weekly contests for us to win something. I also think you could improve weigh-in day by having the different locations coming at different times or going to their own location and providing some water! We worked for it... I appreciate the free workout week and T-shirts. Thank you FOTC for instilling a better, healthier lifestyle in me. You are highly recommended! read more

On December 12, 2015, I finished the 'Melt20in6' program at Fitness Optimist. It was six (6) weeks of a low-carb, lean protein, low-fat, no sugar, lots of green vegetables and a gallon of water a day meal plan, combined with a minimum of five (5) high-intensity interval 'boot camp' style workouts. After having picked up more than thirty (30) pounds over the last 2-3 years, I knew that I needed to adjust what I ate and exercise more frequently. My spirit was willing, but the flesh was soft and weak. I worked hard when I went to the gym -- cardio (Cybex, Exercycle); strength training (medicine ball, ropes) but I struggled with consistency. My diet was no better -- too many carbs (pasta, pizza), too much fat, and too much sugar. The FOTC program provided the structure, guidance, and accountability I was missing and really needed. I followed the meal plan and made it to the five (5) days of workouts per week that are required in the program. Accountability comes from the commitment to the five (5) workouts per week, having to post on Facebook following your workout, and the weekly Monday weigh-ins. The (positive) pressure from having my goals become public and having to chart my weight loss weekly helped to keep me on track. I had the added bonus of doing the program with my BFF, so we commiserated on the challenges and celebrated the successes. The workouts are tough, but designed to crank up your metabolism and strengthen you physically. The trainers/coaches are focused on ensuring that you get a great workout, that your form is correct, and that you are pushing yourself toward your goals. You get to know people in your workout classes because you are sharing the struggle to lose weight and get fit. The Facebook group for the Challenge gives you access to questions, suggestions, recipes, etc. from everyone in the Challenge, which is support to help you make it through the six (6) weeks and help you to reach your goals. The first couple of weeks are transitional -- your body will be sore from the workouts, you will be adjusting to the meal plan, struggling to let go of the foods that you are used to and love, and adjusting your schedule to accommodate your workouts. By the third week, you feel stronger, you have lost weight, your clothes are looser, you have discovered which of the foods, spices (non-salt), carbs, and green vegetables in the meal plan work for you; you have managed to drink your gallon of water a day; and working out is a regular part of your day. Plus, you are at the halfway point and you know you can push through for another three (3) weeks. A mantra of the program is Follow The Damn Instructions (FTDI). If you are serious about improving your fitness, changing your body, and developing better food and dietary habits, AND you are committed to FTDI, then FOTC is for you. It is six (6) weeks out of your entire life. You owe it to yourself. read more

First Sunday in October of this year, I found myself sick and tired of joint stiffness and pain, shortness of breathe and chronic tiredness. As I sat in my car waiting for my husband to finish his ministry duties as a Trustee, I cried out to God about my health concerns and pleaded for Him to show me the way. Well, He responded immediately after I opened my Facebook page. As I browsed through posts, I saw an advertisement for Fitness Optimist Transformation Center (FOTC) pop-up on my page. Normally, I ignore ads but this one caught my attention so I sent them my information. Within a couple of days, someone called me and invited me to the orientation. During this session, I listened attentively but I wavered in my decision to take on this challenge that was scheduled to start on Monday, October 31st. There were several requirements that we were told that we had to adhere to while participating but the one that bothered me the most was the daily check-in via Facebook. Although I understood the reasoning (accountability), I did not want to be on blast in case I started something that I could not finish. I'm so glad I shared with my Facebook family and friends because I'm thankful for the many encouraging words and "likes" I received each day. This motivated me to keep working hard and reaching for my goal of physical and mental wellness. I'm not a morning person but now I look forward to getting up early each morning for the 5:00 am class at the Largo Center. Special shout out to the 5:00 am crew! This is the first time that I have loved working out. I love this program because the workouts are planned out for me and the coaches push and encourage me through each session. FOTC has changed my life and transformed my body. Now the drum roll .... I'm proud to report that I successfully completed this challenge by losing 24.8 lbs and 3 inches off my waist but most importantly the joint stiffness and pain has decreased. I rolled over for the next challenge scheduled for January because I have more than just 20 lbs to loss. Until January, I signed up to continue working out during the break so that I'm able to continue with my progress. I'm on this journey to continue with the assistance and encouragement from my Rockstar Coaches Javarr, Jasmine and Sasha. If you have tried other weight lost programs and gym membership without long-term successful, I encourage you to give this program a try. I promise if you put in the work and follow the instructions, you will be successful and it will last a lifetime. For me personally as a 50 plus female, this program has become a part of life just as brushing my teeth. Hope to see you one day at the Largo Center. read more

What can I say about the Fitness Optimist Transformation Center. Well, for starters I have been trying to lose weight for a long time. I tried everything from dieting, exercising, changing eating habits and so on. Every time I would start one of these methods I just could not seem to stick to it, and I would find myself back to my old ways. One day I was online searching for a personal trainer I figured maybe if I paid for someone to be on my back about working out every day and eating right I would be able to meet my weight goal. While on my search I ran into FOTC. The ad said "Lose 20lbs in 6 Weeks" I thought to myself sure they are just out to get my money and I would never lose the weight, so I disregarded the whole thing. A few weeks later my Fiancé comes to me telling me she wants to try this Challenge with her to lose weight. Not knowing she was talking about FOTC I said ok and we went to orientation. Once I got there I told her I saw this ad and I don't think it's going to work. After orientation, my Fiancé was sold and truly believed FOTC could help us lose 20lbs in 6 weeks. So, we signed up. The first week was hell. I would wake up at 4a.m. and be at class by 5a.m. (I would later switch to the 9a.m. class) My body was not use to the intense workout they had prepared for us. We were constantly moving, there were no times for breaks the coaches were very motivational and pushed and pushed. Things that I swear I was not able to do I was doing. It was crazy. Along with working out came the meals they had planned for us. Now, understand I am a big guy so when I saw I was only allowed to eat 6oz. of protein I couldn't believe it. So, I stuck to the meal plan. Eating 3 times a day and drinking Protein shakes in between meals. After the 3rd week it all became a habit. I even started enjoying the meals and getting use to exercising. I got into it so much I started working out at the Fitness Center in my Apartment Complex. I started seeing results on the scale a few pounds here and there but It wasn't until I noticed my clothes were a little loose that I knew the FOTC methods were indeed working. On the last day to weight out. I walked into the Fitness Center proud because I knew I followed all the instructions. When I first started the challenge, I weighed 294.4lbs, I now weigh 271.4lbs. Which is a total of 23lbs and 4.5 inches off my waist. Bottom line FOTC worked for me and it can work for you too. As long as you FTDI (Follow The Damn Instructions). Special Thanks to all the coaches for helping me to finally achieve weight loss. read more

For a few years I would see the FOTC free lose 20 pounds in 6 weeks advertised on Facebook. I thought it was a scam and just ignored it. Finally in 2016 at my heaviest weight I ever been, I decided it was to get myself healthy. I told myself this before, but failed every time. Since this year I would be a bridesmaid in my best friend's wedding. Granted I knew she loved me for me, I didn't want to be a sloppy thick version of myself. I started on my own watching what I ate and starting to workout. Again, I saw the FOTC free boot camp being advertised again. This time I said what do I have to lose since it is free. I arrived at the orientation and learned it wasn't "free". Ready to turn it down since I had better things to do with $399, I started to really listen to what the owner had to say. Then when he said working out 5 days a week for an hour, I said there is no way I can do that when I work and my daughters' activities keep their mom running. Joe asked who wasn't 100 % committed to taking the challenge and I raised my hand. He asked me why. I stated because of my work hours and my daughters' schedule. Joe said you can't be selfish for one hour a day. That stuck with me! I signed up and was ready for the journey. Then when we received the meal plan, I was ready to run again! I started this boot camp. The first week of workouts I hurt in places I didn't know I could hurt. I felt like I was insane for keeping to show up to torture my body again. I stuck with the workouts and cheated a few times on the meal plan. Yet I was focused to finishing the 6 weeks. Coworkers, friends, and family kept telling me they could see the change my body was making. I couldn't! I bought a dress one size smaller than I normally wear and about a month into the boot camp, I wore it to my best friend's bridal shower. I was so proud of me! I was proud of myself for being able to improve my form on certain exercises, able to push myself longer without taking breaks, and overall becoming addictive to the FOTC workouts. After 6 weeks I was able to lose 17 pounds and over 6 inches off my waist. I signed up for another 6 week challenge. I am thankful for the FOTC experience in my life! The positive and motivational people that high five you and encourage you to keep pushing. I am thankful for the trainers at the Laurel location that pushed me, I look forward to another 6 weeks of insanity! Thanks Joe for creating this program and I recommend it to anyone! read more

I finished my 20in6 (20lb in 6 week challenge) on the 12th of December 2015. My weight was 269.6 on the first day of the program, and I lost 23.4 so my weigh came down to 246.2lb. If you are struggling with losing weight and looking for solution, let assure for you that this program is the best guaranteed to lose weight if you really commit to it. I for years like for last 7 years been following many programs to lose weight, and I probably paid hundreds of dollars on pills, formulas, tools, training CDs, gym memberships etc. However, none of these methods really helped me, so I usually get disappointed and gain more weight. One day in late October 2015, I was searching for a gym to join then I found brochure on fitness optimist transformation center, and it basically was about offering to help me lose weight for free, and so I put my contact info and I got scheduled to come for orientation. During the orientation the details of the program was presented, and the following points summarize it: - You have to follow the instructions no matter what. - You need to pay a deposit of $397, and once you lose 20lb then you be refunded (I really found paying the deposit an important mental factor to successfully lose the 20lb) - You will be given set of nutrition instructions, the training classes schedule for both locations in Laurel, and in Hanover. - You will be offered to buy supplements support you transformation progress. Ok, so I joined & basically there are two main parts of the program: Exercises & the meals. Exercises: When I came to the first exercise, I felt like I am in hell and I want it to end, I felt so sorry for myself and what I got myself into, any way I continued the exercises and I gradually became able to tolerate the hardness and muscle soreness. The Meals: I was eating protein all day but from different sources with shakes in between meals. One thing I noticed that I really didn't feel any hunger or urge to eat, and I really liked that because that feeling would always fail my diet. Thanks to: -The owner Joe Buabeng: really a true giver, a master of this program to help you transform your body. - The coaches: Trudi Wilson, Tommy Lee, Kyle Galford, are the ones whom I had the pleasure to be in their exercises. - The Facebook group members, FOTC members & veterans provided tips, answered questions, and gave support along the way. I am now a year member, and I extremely recommend joining this program. -Abdul read more

I was on Facebook and somehow Joe Buabeng posted about a 6 week 20LB weight lose challenge. I e-mailed with him a little and did go to a information section. Out of the meeting I got that he is looking for people committed to stick to the plan and if you Follow The Damn Instructions you will hit your goal. To make sure you mean it, you got to put up close to $400.- and I did. So after a nutritional meeting and a whole layout of the program first weigh in. Than you got a food plan and a whole list of items you can eat with an anatomy of a healthy meal. Lot's of new things to learn.... Well than shopping for all things up high on the recommended list to eat and NOT to deviate to the list! It was a lot of new things for me, but the staff and group helped me through. (In fact it is kind of fun to experiment with all the ingredients on the list) Also comes the physical work out with at least 5 times a week for one hour than includes warm up, main circle training and "cool" down. My 5am trainers where Catrice and Tesa. Both pushed us hard like a drill sergeant (that is how it felt like) I had the felling they are taking pleasure in this. In a good way where trying to get you to push your body to the limit. (You just would not want to go there) The 6 weeks challenge was hard in two ways. It was hard to stick to the plan and just eat the amounts and type of foods. (I use my gram scale to weigh out all my food) Lot's of temptations came my way in this 6 weeks, but I was strong, since I had the goal in front of me. The physical aspect was also a little hard, since I was just pushing a pencil for many years and did not work out for about 18+ years. The first two weeks I was loosing lot's of weight and than it slowed down a bit, I had to pick up extra cardio in order to move the scale further. And if I would have done that right from the beginning, I might have broken a record.... But after all was set and done, 36LB (and -5 inches off my waist) in 6 weeks it not to bad. I have to thank my team and 5am group that helped me push further than I could have. Thanks for this chance I have gotten to be part of it. My goal of a healthy lifestyle has just begun and if you are serious about loosing weight, you need to take the 6 week 20LB challenge!!! Fitness Optimist Transformation Center has impacted many's people lives and WILL transform YOU! Get out of the comfort zone, do it! read more

6Week 20lb Challenge was a success completion for me. The Fitness Optimist Transformation Center (FOTC) is a learning institute that will not only transform your body but your mind set as well. I've learned that transforming your mind is essential to transforming the body, they work hand in hand. I am exercising and eating in a total new light. I have learned to eat healthier, work through the pain, and to stay fully commit to the challenge. I have overcome the obstacle of thinking positive (I can do this) vs thinking negative (I wanted to quit) all awhile being pushed beyond my limits, I did not know it I could do some of the exercises but I got through it. The FOTC group of people were encouraging and supporting each other every day. The group consists of various sizes, race and gender. It does not matter what you look like in the beginning, it's your end result that matters. The struggle is real in this program. An obstacle to overcome was to work through routines despite knee issues by modifying them so not to cause any damages. It was great to learn that a modified way would bring the same results. I had to focus on staying committed and not quit because I really wanted to, I felt like it was just too strenuous for me. I wanted to transform but did not want to put in the work. So I focused, just FTDI, only eat the suggested foods and drank the gallon of water a day. The fitness curriculum is very intense, exhausting, and fast paced with each day bringing a new challenge. It works all areas of your body affecting every muscle group. I was not one who exercised, but with the foundation of FOTC and the concept of moving from station to station help makes the program bearable. I've learn that in order to reach your goal, you must push and stay motivated beyond boundaries that your body and mind cannot conceive. Will I do it again, probably not? Would I say it was worth it, hmmm, yes it was, because I love my end results. Thank you FOTC family for helping me with my transformation, but I had my fill of intensive and exhausted training, however I will continue to be active and exercised weekly. Having had trainers who really cared about my health and physical being is what made a difference toward me succeeding. I am down 22.8 lbs and 7 inches off the waist, thanks to help from the trainers and my hard work I have now become a TRANSFORMER. read more

Just coming off the 6-week fitness challenge at Laurel Fitness Optimist Transformation Center. I came into the challenge with the mindset that putting $500.00 on a table for which I could only reclaim if I lost 20 lbs. would be about the only thing to motivate me to lose excess pounds that I have been trying to lose for decades with no success. In addition to the $500.00 at risk, you are required to do mandatory workouts 5 days per week. Not only did I successfully lose the 20 lbs. but I got so much more than I bargained for. The fitness regimen which is essentially a boot-camp was the big bonus in my mind and I quickly began to view it as something I looked forward to and my body craved vs. an obligation. I cannot say enough about the instructors, their dedication, passion, expertise and ability to make what is normally a painful activity a fun activity instead. I can honestly say that I don't believe we ever did precisely the same exercise twice over the course of 30 sessions. I came in with multiple injuries and they were able to modify on an individual basis for each exercise. I was able to do all exercises comfortably while still being challenged. I am a fan for life and the thought of going back to my old gym and the mundane boring routine makes me ill. I within 2 weeks started to see a noticeable difference in my body, the way I fit my clothing and my energy level. Of course the other component to weight loss was the diet and they have the diet completely outlined so that you can easily plan, shop and prepare your meals and there is enough variety to satisfy all tastes. The diet component was much more difficult than the fitness component for me because you find yourself faced with the reality of how you might have been using food for comfort, addicted to unhealthy foods, not making time for proper nutrition or simply uneducated about nutrition. Once again the staff at FOTC was ever present to guide and encourage in support of your overall success. I would highly recommend this challenge to any person seeking to kick start a lifestyle change that incorporates fitness and healthy eating. read more

I happened to come across an ad on my Facebook page advertising 'free challenge - lose 20 lbs in 6 weeks!' Crazy enough, I was just feeling bad about myself after realizing that I somehow let myself get back to the weight I was at full term with my son (who is almost 2). Perfect timing!!! I went to the informational meeting a little skeptical but willing to listen. At the end of the meeting, we were told the cost of the program is really $399. Of course - I KNEW there was a catch!!! BUT - if I lost the 20 lbs in 6 weeks, I would get my money back. I was on the fence for a little while trying to decide whether or not to take the challenge. Working out at a specific facility five times a week and following a strict eating plan along with 'checking in' on Facebook everyday just seemed like a huge commitment - along with paying $399!! However, there was something that Joe (the owner) said that struck a chord with me. He asked everyone in the audience who had a gym membership to raise his or her hands. About 75% of people put up their hands. Then he said, 'how's that working out for you?' Now I've had a gym membership for as long as I can remember, paying thousands of dollars ALL these years and never even lost 10 lbs!! I was sold!! The first week was rough, getting up at five a.m., only eating from the meal plan, and just trying to FTDI (inside joke) was nuts. As time went on, I found myself really looking forward to my morning workouts. Every workout session was a new challenge, new exercises, good music. Slowly, we FOTC challengers and members merged into one big happy family. We encouraged each other and gave each other that extra push to follow through and finish strong. What I loved most about this challenge is the strong sense of community that I felt and still feel. I thank Joe for having the vision and the dedication to making 'our' community fit and healthy. I'm really loving this FOTC movement!!!!! By the way........after 6 weeks, I lost 20 lbs on the dot and lost 7 inches off my waist!!!!!!!! Best decision I've made in a long time!!!! Sometimes you have to invest in yourself!! read more

I am elated and excited to have successfully completed my six week body transformation at Fitness Optimist Transformation Center. After six weeks of following the instructions and the instructors, I was able to lose over 22 pounds and two inches off my waist. This is a great family atmosphere, filled with supportive and knowledgeable staff, motivated individuals, and fun, rigorous exercises. There is never a dull or predictable moment in this camp. The instructions are clear and detail what you have to do if you want to gain the results: follow the diet plan, drink a gallon of water each day, work out five days a week minimum, and check in on your Facebook page daily. While I got tired of posting to my page each day, some of my family and friends found the posts to be motivators, so I'm glad we had to do it. I attended workout sessions with at least four different coaches and the owner/director, Joe. Each instructor/coach took time to clearly explain and demonstrate the exercises, even showing how to do modified versions; they had varying weight levels so that the beginner and the advanced person could complete the exercise, and they also showed you the end goal of how you wanted to look doing the exercise. This was really beneficial for me as I had to convince myself quite often that I could do this. This is a boot camp style training facility, so it does not have cardio equipment, and it does not have a showering facility. There is an up front deposit (currently, $397), which you can recoup or roll over to another challenge, provided you lose 20 pounds. I think that is fair, probably more than fair, but I wouldn't call it free. There are currently two locations, one in Laurel and the other in Hanover. That is a nice touch. Joe is readily available to answer questions, and the coaches are most helpful. It is an effective program; I definitely would recommend it to motivated people who are ready to put in work and get outstanding results. I can't wait for the next challenge! read more

FOTC 6 week 20 lbs. challenge is the best place to be if you want to lose weight fast. All the trainers were motivating and pumped up each class. You have to exercise a minimum of 5 days a week for an hour each time, while also following the detailed nutrition guide. The exercises were very effective and there were always new exercises to do throughout the 30 workouts. This was very beneficial as it worked different muscles and it kept the workouts very fresh and exciting. I learned many new workouts that I can do on my own now. And I learned the proper way and form of doing them as the trainers were always right by me telling me how to adjust to make it correct. I also learned that I have a few more reps in me with each workout than I thought. I always tell myself that I'll just do like 10 pushups, and rest, when in actuality, I could do 12 or 13 until I can't do anymore. This helped me grow in my character and helped me build patience, and to not give up when things get a little uncomfortable. The main obstacle for me to overcome was the 20 lbs that I was carrying around. It hurt my lower back, made my clothes fit too tight, made it hard for me to put on socks and shoes, and made me generally less energetic. I now have energy, and it's easier for me to wake up in the morning. The last obstacle for me to overcome was the last 5 pounds I had to lose for reach the 20 lbs. mark. I was getting very worried that I might not make it. But when I followed the nutrition guide throughout and especially the guide for the last few days, I dropped the pounds so quick, and even more. My total weight loss was 23 lbs. I'm very pleased to have taken this challenge and succeed. I recommend anyone who wants to lose weight and to have a consistent, all around support group, to enroll in the program. It will be a kick start to a healthy lifestyle, and to make the rest of your life, the best of your life. read more

Good Morning Yelp family, I am still at awe with my awesome body transformation as a result of me participation in 6 weeks challenge at the Fitness Optimist Transformation Center (FOTC) in Largo. My journey began when I saw one of my Techite friends (LaShonne Robinson) posted an amazing/beautiful picture of herself on fb and I said to myself I don't know what she did but I'm calling her to find out, and that's exactly what I did. Let's move forward to the Orientation, well anyone who know me, knows that I will do a thorough investigation before I commit to anything. Therefore, I attended the orientation and received great information, many success stories and at that time I made a decision that I was going to do it, not knowing that the orientation that I had attended was for the upcoming challenge which was scheduled for late October/early November 2016; I immediately declined because when you have beautiful/amazing cooks/bakers in your family such as Aunt Hattie, Aunt Clara, Aunt Sheila, my sisters Bernice, Jeanette, Sylvia, my cousin Aisha, my niece Nicole just to name a few, I knew then that I would have set myself up for failure. However on January 7, 2017, I attended the nutritional seminar and the following Monday, January 9, 2017 I began a new investment in my life for the better, Director Tracie and her team were simply amazing, very knowledgeable about the program and the products, my coaches were very stern only because they wanted ALL of us to succeed and achieve our goals. They ensured safety first, then technique and form. I would be lying if I didn't admit that there were not times and days that I just wanted to give in, especially when my body hit a plateau for two consecutive weeks, but when I went back to the good ole "FOTC Bible" and the AFF private group they kept me going. I highly recommend this challenge to anyone who's ready to make a life style change for the better. read more

Yes yes melt down from 192.8 pounds to 171 pounds . For me it was something different to do it wasn't easy but it was worth it , I push myself to do harder then I could and with a lot of hard work i pull through, the workout was not hard and not easy but I push myself to do the best I could do to reach my goals, I try the best to do the routine the way the coach tells us to do it and with help from the coach and the other members it got easier as the days and weeks go by , some ot the workout routine wasn't easy but if you push yourself to the highest Heights you'll get to your goals I had a lot of challenges with my 6 weeks transformation process but the team at Fitness optimist transformation center was helpful throughout my transformation I couldn't have gone it without them, I could talk to them about the challenges that I was facing and they did their best to help me through my process they were very motivative helpful and understanding throughout this transformation I want to give a big shout-out to coach Carey she helped me through a lot of the difficult times that I had to go through my transformation she is more than a motivator with everything she helps me with ever questions that I asked she was there to answer it to the best of our abilities or she would ask the managers and then she will get back to me as soon as possible thumps up to Carey she's the best and if it wasn't for Coach Carey and Miss Deborah I wouldn't have met my goals Fitness Optimist Transformation Center is the best ever so I would recommend that if you have a fitness goal to me this would be the best place for you to go to meet your goals the staff they will help you to get there with hard work and dedication THUMPS UP to Fitness optimist transformation center the best fitness center ever and I WILL SAY IT AGAIN BIG THUMPS TO THR STAFF AND MEMBERS OF FITNESS OPTIMIST TRANSFORMATION CENTER read more

I was encouraged by my friend Annie to join Fitness Optimists 6 week 20 lb challenge. Ironically it came after I was told by my Doctor to lose 10 lbs by August. I meet with Elisa Cloud, tried out a few classes to see if I could handle the workouts and signed up. The first week I lost 10 lbs! I attribute the loss to following the meal plan which initially was a challenge, but I started weighing my food and eating my meals and drinking my shakes. At first it was hard eating all the food, but I learned about some new foods like quinoa and asparagus which I thought I didn't like, but learned some new ways to prepare it. The workouts kept me on track and one thing I really liked is that if you are alone, the trainers put you in a group so you can encourage each other. I cheated a bit the second week and only lost 4 lbs but I learned to look at the nutritional value of my foods so if I was going to cheat I could at least make a good choice. The classes were circuit training and everyday there was something different. All the trainers were good, although Tommy and Porsha were my favorites. All the trainers check for injuries and I had a flare up of my sciatica and they modified my workouts so as not to aggravate my injury. They also fit well into my work schedule either early in the am or in the evening. If I was tired or mad or stressed, I always left feeling better. Two weeks into the challenge I started moving to a new place and even though I worked full time, was moving and had a long commute, I still made time for my workouts and looked forward to them. Now having lost 27 lbs I am stronger, I feel better, and people tell me they can see a difference in my face and body. I highly recommend Cloud 10 Fitness Transformation Center, I am almost 60 and had not worked out continuously for 2 years and if I can do it anyone can! read more

Woo! Here I am 6 weeks later and 22.8lbs lighter. I completed the 6 weeks challenge all thanks to the Hanover Fitness Optimists Crew or if we want to use abbreviations = Thanks FOTC FAM =D. I first heard about this opportunity through Facebook. Yes people, Facebook of all places. The ad stated that it was a FREE Challenge, (Obviously, nothing in the world is free except for water) BUT it is technically free depending on how dedicated you will be. So you put down a down payment and then IF you lose 20lbs in 6 weeks, you either have a chance to refund the money or roll it over to another challenge. Putting down a down payment does help! There were times when I would wake up at 4:30AM and contemplate about why I had to wake up and drive to workout. -__- if you want your money back.. Well you better work for it! The workouts are very intense. The trainers will push you and may even call you out if you are not doing what you are supposed to be doing. Every week will always be different from the previous one - so no, you will NEVER get BORED! Also, you will have an amazing support group with you through your workouts. You're probably wondering what I ate. During orientation, they give you a "food bible" which lists all the food that you can eat from and also an example of when/what you should be eating at certain times. I didn't struggle as far as the nutritional component because I love me some tilapia and chicken =D. Anyways, I did struggle with the protein shake...*blehh*. If you don't like protein shakes, my advice to you is to just chug it! Don't look at it or smell it - just like Nike "Just Do It!" =P You will have plenty of gains from friendships, to memories, and to all the times you probably want to give up BUT never do! So cheers to all the huffing and puffing and catching your breath, you will make it! read more

I just completed my 6 week challenge and I lost exactly 20 pounds and 6 inches off my waist! FOTC has a no nonsense approach to losing weight, its simple, FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS and you will be successful. Please keep in mind this is definitely a challenge, its not easy. I am person that hates exercise and I still hate it, but guess what, it works! You are required to work out 5 days a week and check in on FB. The workouts are intense and fast paced, it may be a little discouraging if you have never worked out in an organized setting before, but stay at . The nutrition plan is simple and easy to follow. They also offer protein shakes and supplements, which I believe are overpriced and not all together necessary. The instructors and coaches are great, very motivating, they stay on you but not in a demeaning way. I found everyone participating in the program to be very motivating and there is a strong sense of teamwork. The facility is a good size, there isn't a lot of equipment but its not really necessary given the boot camp style workout. They offer morning and evening classes 6 days a week which is very convenient. I would recommend post challenge guidelines and meal plans, maybe it is available but I am not aware. Overall this is a great program for anyone seeking to lose 20+pounds. Please keep in mind this is an extreme approach to weight lose, 6 weeks is short period of time to lose 20 pounds, and you must be focused. With that being said, its also extreme to knowing eat unhealthy food, drink excessive alcohol and not have any physical activity, so approach FOTC as a extreme step in the right direction for your health. I will continue my journey with Fitness Optimist Transformation Center, although I chose not to do another challenge I have signed on for a 12 months membership. read more

On March 12th, I initially receive a Facebook message that read "Hey NW! Are you still interested in losing weight? If so, your next step is super easy. Our next 6 Week Challenge is starting on this date, and we've still got a few spots left! If you want to join our challenge, just reply to this message with your email address and phone number, and someone from our team will schedule an orientation with you. I was really interested in losing weight, so I sent my information in. On April 6th, I found myself sitting in an orientation and an energetic women named Cathy stood at the front of the room; she asked "who would like to lose 20 pounds in 6 weeks?" she may not have put it in those exact words but that is what I took from it. Cathy's pitch was simple. She guaranteed that if I followed her plan that I would lose 20 pounds within 6 weeks. I tried other weight loss programs so I figured I should give this one a try. My first week was tough. I could not do 1 pushup, which surprised me. I was able to push and get through the workouts and the staff moved us at a steady pace so that seemed to help a bit. As the weeks progressed, I could see that the workouts had intensified but I was able to keep up some and I felt stronger and by weeks three and four. By weeks five and six the trainer had the participants running about a mile and I was able to get through about 20 pushups. I must say that the meal plans were decent and I was able to use different combinations of things to keep the meal plans interesting. On May 20th at 4:45pm I performed my final weigh in and had lost 20.8 pounds. They made a true believer out of me. I will say that if you are serious about losing weight and have tried other programs with no results; you will accomplish your goals at Cloud 10 Transformations. read more