A bit about Jan
Right now, one of the best friends I’ve ever had bless my life is 36,000 feet above my head.
She’s also on an airplane back to Seattle.
World, meet Jan…Jan, this is the world. Here’s why you two need to meet.
Rarely do you encounter someone so genuine, so real, and so lovely from the inside-out that you’re moved to become a better human being. That’s been my experience with Mrs. H. I’m telling you all of this for a reason….and yes, this has a lot to do with fitness.
I met Jan years ago online on a fitness forum. We began chatting, and there was that instant “I’m going to be friends with this person for life” kind of vibe. Her husband Pete, who has since become a very good friend as well, has been incredibly generous regarding this relationship. Most men would not be so brave and honest at the same time. Turns out he has nothing to fear. And, I’ll tell you why:
I care more for Jan than I do my own needs. There’s a word for that that begins with “L”. It doesn’t have to involve sex, marriage, or romance — it can just involve a healthy caring for another human. Let me tell you, it’s a wonderful feeling.
To simply be happy for another couple — for their marriage, their life, their children — is such a blessing. To not worry about “funky vibes” or betrayal is even a greater reward.
On top of all this great stuff, Jan turned out to be one hell of an inspiration in the gym.
Jan is a former member of the “How Obese Can I Get Club”. She’s now a figure competitor. Here: see for yourself: click to see Jan’s before and afters. For the past…oh…7, 8 years maybe, her lifestyle went from “burgers are perfectly healthy” to a balanced, energetic, healthy 29-forever gal who dropped an entire person in weight, changed her heart and mind, and educated herself in all things “fitness”. She became certified in more ‘stuff’ than I can count (a lot of consonants, that’s for sure.) Beyond all of this, she brought to the surface a heart that truly, wholly and utterly cares about changing the lives of others.
We hit a workout yesterday that’s for the record books. My biceps were too sore to hold her precious little rug-rat Kari last night…seriously. She handed me the sleeping child just so I could experience what it was like (not a common thing for me) and I shouted, “Take her! Take her! Biceps!!!!” Crazy sore…but it was worth it. Having a child peacefully sleeping in your arms is…well, just awesome. All you parents out there — that’s some good stuff.
We pushed each other hard and enjoyed a great meal out afterwards. I had no dizziness at all — probably due to the positive energy. Even amidst the turmoil of buying out a business partner, a ton of “tech” issues, and my own normal life, there was peace in the center of the storm.
What she does for me as head trainer at M-Power has her working far more hours than she’s compensated for. While here in Dallas, she was working at the desk beside mine — without an internet connection. Just composing letters to send as we pass by a Starbucks. You know, just “had” to answer some folks. Just had to help another person.
On top of it all, she had to help me.
I just wanted to blog a bit about this remarkable lady and the power of friendship in the pursuit of the excellence lifestyle. Throughout our visit, Jan effortlessly inspired me by eating clean, enjoyable meals while still having some fun with Mexican food. She pushed me to train harder while still backing me up when I needed to mentally and physically rest.
In short: she has that ‘balance’ that we all seek. It was amazing to watch, learn and grow from.
For those of you lucky enough to have Jan as your M-Power trainer, kudos.
I’m lucky to have her as a friend.
She’s one of those people who radiates, “I’m up here, come join me,” without saying a word. These types of individuals just seem to pull you in that direction — straight up.
How high? At least 36,000 feet or so. {10}
Archived in Just Jon.
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Comments (20)
Alicia said:
Beautiful blog Jon… And all the while you were putting up with the likes of me and never saying a word about my pestering you.
Gives me hope for humanity too. I hope I will have the chance to meet Jan in person some day. A million times Thank You bringing her into my life. I already know this is going to be the start of something truely awesome.
You mentioned “Turmoil of buying out a business partner” I was hoping your split with Tom on FOF was mutual. I hope it didn’t cause any rifs between the two of you. Honestly, I could see it would eventually happen. The two of you are polar opposites on some areas of fitness…. different body types, different experiences.
I feel the need to give you a cyber hug,ya big sap you. ;-) ((((Jon)))))
Posted on Dec 15, 2005 05:44 PM
Jon Benson said:
Alicia, you made my night… : )
Thank you for the kind words…truly.
Tom and I parted without problems other than what was to be expected. He still supports Fit Over 40 and M-Power fully, which means so much to me — and I support Burn The Fat equally.
While we are two different people, I have the utmost respect for Tom Venuto, and trust me when I say you would have a hard time finding better stuff than the materials he has produced.
Except mine, of course. : )
Even tie. How’s that?
As for Jan — yeah, she’s going to be a blessing. I’m looking forward to your success reports!
Posted on Dec 15, 2005 05:53 PM
Clare said:
Hey Jon
What does TLC stand for? Here its an acronym for tender loving care, so whether you want to give or receive that, all to the good.
Merry Christmas everyone. I and my lads are off to Queensland for the summer, so we’ll have the energy to do up the house we bought Wednesday. Yep all happening ,bought this complete dive with a beautiful yard in the perfect spot. Hope I can keep up from there.
Bye
Posted on Dec 15, 2005 06:06 PM
mike said:
I know that you guys have no reason to trust me at this point or believe one little thing I say. Why should you, right? But I can confirm everything that Jon just said about Jan. I haven’t spoken with her on the phone yet. We have done the email thing a lot. She has been bang on with everything that she told me. Understand that I too know a quite a bit about training, not as much as she but a fair bit. I was listening to her and Jon doing an M-Power audio. Her voice is not only beautiful but you really can hear the love she has in her ability to help others. Did I say that right? I have spoken with Jon on the phone and he too has that same quality. A better support group I don’t think you will ever find. How I wish I could actually see her picture but probably better I can’t. You guys will have to let me know about that part.
Good night
Posted on Dec 15, 2005 06:09 PM
Kenny said:
Hey Jon, the way you speak of Jan is in many ways the way I think of you.
You’re my beacon of light.
The heck with being “like Mike”.
I want to be like Jon.
And, I have a knowing, that if I keep hanging out with you (online), and your products, you will in effect be pulling me in that direction…..STRAIGHT UP! ! ! !
Peace out br! ! !
Posted on Dec 15, 2005 06:26 PM
Jon Benson said:
To Clare:
TLC means the same here…and I like to give and receive. : ) Keep us posted on the little trooper, okay?
To Mike:
Well, I’m way behind on responses…but I’m digging in this week. Mike, all I can say is “thank you”. To be inspired and complimented by the same person is the ultimate.
Jan — well, my friend, I would gladly loan you my eyes for a while, I’ll put it that way. However, it’s more inner than outer, so you have a better view than most of us ever will.
I’ve really come to a point in my life where I can appreciate, I mean fully, the inner beauty of a woman. When you combine that with the outer beauty, it’s just icing on the cake.
Peter (Jan’s husband) is a lucky man — and you know what? She’s one hell of a lucky gal, too. He’s a good friend, and a better man.
Posted on Dec 15, 2005 06:27 PM
Alicia said:
Jon,
I’m so glad to hear that although I expected nothing less from the two of you. I respect both of you tremendously for the integrity of your works and for the hearts of gold behind that integrity.
I will always be grateful to Tom for Burn the Fat. BFFM has clarified and simplified all the scattered pieces of fitness knowledge floating through my brain that I have acquired through out the many years of my journey. My body type and experiences just happen to be closer matched to yours.
Success Reports? Thanks for slapping me with accountability right off the bat!:P Just kidding. Of course there will be success reports!!
Posted on Dec 15, 2005 06:44 PM
Todd said:
She sounds like a truly beautiful and amazing woman, Jon (and while she is definitely a knockout on the outside (*sizzle*), I’m referring to her inner beauty here). There will come a day when I will be able to sign up for M-Power, and I sincerely hope that when I do, Jan will be my trainer.
Listen, Dude… I know I’ve posed a couple of questions to you over the past few days (the qigong device, and your source for coconut oil). No pressure. Absolutely none. I’m cool. “He who understands Life does not rush.” I’m not goin’ anywhere, ‘cept down to the gym, and the kitchen — and I just bought myself a new knife today (one of the ones Rachael Ray uses (a Füri RR Coppertail Santoku), so I’ll be getting acquainted with it, fershur!)… I’ll still be here when things calm down for you. Take Care, and do what you need to do, man.
If I get uppity, I’ll just find Rachael on FoodTV — that little cutie can always soothe whatever ails me. :)
Posted on Dec 15, 2005 08:43 PM
Dr Janet said:
Hi Jon,
Best of luck having FOF all to yourself. I do agree with Alicia in that BFFM is an excellent resource. It has all the nutrition information one needs in one place, and written at a level that anyone can understand without a biochemistry degree. And through BFFM I found FOF and then this blog and then M-Power, so the Universe has a way of getting one the teaching tools when one is truly ready for them. I am very greatful for your very candid manner. You are living your dreams and you are teaching us how we can too (here and through M-Power).
Keep doin’ what cha’ doin’. YOU truly rock.
Posted on Dec 15, 2005 09:42 PM
Tina said:
Hey Bingo,
Thank you for the info about Jan, glad you can experience a good woman’s psyche and the love of a child. Me thinks you need to venture into the female go zone again, it’s been a long year (time to leave the comfort zone). I know you’ve been really busy, but I never saw an answer to the qigong device (someone asked what it was and where you got it) did you post and I missed it?
To Mike, love your writing (especially your post/love of the gym), sense of humor, helpful hints, you keep us going when Bingo has left the building.
To Anna, been there done that maybe your husband was a clone of mine. Be strong, and yes, I know he will get worse as you become more confident in yourself. It’s because he is insecure with himself that he says those things to you, he might not even realize that he does it (if you mention that you can never do anything right for him he will probably deny it as it has become a habit). My thoughts and prayers are with you. You will also become a stronger person on the inside as you become a stronger healthier person on the outside.
To Todd, Isn’t Rachael Ray fun, have you seen her new magazine and web site? If not you should check it out while Jon’s busy.
P.S. Jon we still love you, we just miss you
Posted on Dec 15, 2005 10:01 PM
Jon Benson said:
To Alicia:
Yep…Burn The Fat, Feed The Muscle is a great book. Highly recommended! Success reports — you bet, girl!
To Todd:
First, I’ll make sure of it. I am…er…connected. As in ‘da boss. So, there you go. : ) That being said, we have absolutely incredible trainers. Alyson (who posts here frequently) continually impresses me beyond reason. That girl knows more about M-Power than I do.
Well, almost! : )
I think she’s near 50 and looks near 30. Another amazing story of transformation.
Gee…I could list off every trainer in this list, so I’ll just say ‘everyone’.
Oh, gotta give a bit of kudos to Steve. I just found out he trained with the GREAT, INCREDIBLE, FREAKING BEST Mohammad Makkawy. Steve, you lucky Rummy. There’s only one bodybuilder I liked better…maybe two. Don Howarth is my personal favorite. Zane, but Zane was into some wild stuff. Howarth had the physique that just put everyone to shame. Anyway, I’m about to start a Don Howarth tribute site since no one has heard of this guy except Vince Gironda die-hards.
Now, to your questions (and thanks for the patience!):
For the qigong device: check out www.cheeenergy.com. I know the owner, and trust me — they’re legit and serious. The “device” is unreal. Let me know if you need further advice (and no, I don’t make a dime off of these types of referrals.)
Coconut oil: I get mine from Whole Foods. Spectrum expeller pressed. However, go to www.Mercola.com and do a search. I know there’s a brand he recommends that you can grab over the web.
I’m also very high on fish oil and cod liver oil (Vitamin D will soon become “the” missing component in the heart disease puzzle.) You can OD on cod liver oil (well, D) if you’re outside too much, but it’s hard to OD on fish oil. I like 4-5 grams per day with 2 grams of cod liver oil. That’s your fats — coconut, cod and fish. The rest of your food can be lean as lean gets.
To Dr. Janet:
Ah, my favorite doc! Thanks Janet — so very kind. That’s true: Burn The Fat, Feed The Muscle is a seriously intense (over 300 pages) but easy-to-read bible on nutrition. Not much on training, and I’m sure Tom is coming out with something soon. His training is as awesome as his nutrition, if not more-so. The 40/40/20 split does not work for me. I tried it and just got sleepy. However, I am metabolically very strange, and for most people it would work just fine.
Posted on Dec 15, 2005 10:12 PM
Jon Benson said:
To Tina:
Well, I’M BACK! ; )
Hey, it’s great to be missed. Between Mike and Greg, we have the humor department all but covered (Bingo is still the ruling deity of course.)
All of your blogs have been outstanding. I’m going to dig in an answer all I can over the next few days.
Posted on Dec 15, 2005 10:14 PM
mike said:
Hi Tina
That was very kind of you to say. Now that it appears that the Bingo is back, I shall fade away from whence I came. Not completely but a little. I have a heckish schedule and want to get back to work on my book. So I will be reading but not writing here much.
Tammy, what can I say… Nothing appropriate that’s for sure. Grin.
Anna, stay strong lady. You sound pretty special to me. Just mix up your workouts and follow Bingo’s suggestion to the letter and change what you need to. Try intensifying those cardio session and make them shorter. A good easy 5 to 10 minute warm up before your weights followed by a 15 to 20 minute hard interval training after your weights. I bet you will find you are in the gym less and getting good results. After all, not everyone feels the way I do about their gym. Ok, no one feels the way I do about my gym. How’s that?
All of you have come together here for that one common goal. To be a healthier stronger you and to fight obesity. To challenge this fast world we live in with the fast food, fast pace, and the fast death. We need to have our children leaner, stronger and rid of so many diseases and syndromes that are a direct relation to what they eat and lack of exercise. I am proud to have associated with you all. You inspire me to continue on this road of helping others. Please keep it up.
If anyone wants to get in touch with me, Jon will probably pass on your email address. I don’t want to post it here as I get very little junk mail. Sorry if I put you on the spot Jon.
Mike
Posted on Dec 16, 2005 03:53 AM
Todd said:
Hey, Jon, THANKS for that response (everything in it. I ready look foward to working with Jan!)
Fish oil… yes, it’s one of my core supplements. I take 5 grams BID.
I haven’t tried cod liver oil, though (*adds to shopping list*). I use a lot of EVOO (extra virgin olive oil), sesame oil, and macadamia nut oil in my food prep, and I’ll incorporate the coconut oil as soon as I get my hands on a good quality brand. Whole Foods, eh? We have one of those on the other side of town; looks like I’ll be making an expedition this weekend. I’ll check out that website, too.
And thanks for the info on the qigong device, as well. I have a feeling post-Christmas may turn into a buying-spree…
I’d have to say my bodybuilding inspiration would be Lou Ferrigno. I do have Gironda’s book, Unleashing the Wild Physique; and Zane and Howarth are greats (no doubt), but Louie was the one who got me started on this gig, a long time ago (I’ve been studying fitness and nutrition since highschool; I just haven’t always stuck to what I’ve learned, plus, I didn’t really find quality information until I found you and Tom).
Anyhoo, work beckons. Must get ready.
If I haven’t told you, yet… you ROCK, Dude! Thanks for everything you do.
Posted on Dec 16, 2005 04:42 AM
Lee at work said:
Thanks Jon for the heartfelt tribute to one very special woman. I’m sure she would say similar things about you. Here’s to a prosperous and enduring relationship!
Posted on Dec 16, 2005 06:39 AM
Cherie said:
Todd,
I started on a quest to find coconut oil about a year ago. We got a whole foods in my town after I went down this path, so spectrum wasn’t available. The only brand available was Garden of Life (I use their vitamins) but it was bland and cloudy. I then found the Mercola web site and they sell Tropical traditions brand. However, if you like it, go stright to the web site; www.tropicaltraditions.com and get on their e-mail list. They have great, frequent sales. The oil is very pure. I also use the coconut cream concentrate and love this product, it’s 70% oil and ground up coconuts. It tastes great and very “coconuty”. It’s yummy on toast, better than just oil. A MUST try for anyone using coconut. For a little treat, pop an almond into 1-2 tsp coconut cream (can sprinkle a little unsweatened cocoa powder if you want) and imagine almond joys!
Posted on Dec 16, 2005 11:34 AM
anna said:
what a great blog jon. thanks a lot it. it is nice to hear and know that regular women like us in this challenge actually made and they’ve become such a great inspiration to us.
To Tina: thank you for understanding. I think there is lots of clones out there. But i shouldn’t really complain. I just have to learn how to get him involved or how to deal with it.
To Mike: To you my man i really thank for the great advice and great support. I really do appriciate. You truely make me lough. In fact just yesterday i was in the gym doing my bench press and on my last reps that were really hard I was thinking “What a sexy barbell you are - just let me finish those reps” almost started loughing out loud.
I will try the before worm ups and after interval cardio and see how it goes.
thanks a lot
to all the ladies out there: don’t you just hate shopping for evening gowns?? It is just as bed as shopping for bathing suits!!
I wish there was one universal sizeing and not this BS by different manufactures. In one dress you are size 10 in another you are size 12. then to make things worse in one store you are medium and then in another you cannot fit into large. It is very depressing or should i say very discouraging.
When i started this challenge i was hoping to fit into my skirt size 7. I didn’t happen. but on the upsite I get to go and shop for new things.
jon, I know that you are doing ok even though you are so so busy - just to let you know that you are and your blogs are being missed.
Have a good day everybody. It is a leg day today - and the great burn tomorrow.
Posted on Dec 16, 2005 11:36 AM
Paul said:
Hi Jon, great Blog as usual..you certainly stimulate others with your words..your enthusiasim and love of life is contagious.
I don’t know whether you have hit on this particular topic yet as I have not read every single blog(shame on me). For me discarding of fat is not a linear feat. Cutting back on 200 calories per day and incresing your bodies exercise load does not always equate to a steady decrease in fat. I always seem to stall out around 10 or 12% BF. For years I would get into this vicious cycle of working out harder , more intensely and cutting down on caloric intake. The body being very adaptive and wanting to survive would adjust and remain static. So then I learned to mix things up, caloric intake, intensity of excercise, variation of routine etc. This has helped some but it seems really difficult to get below the 10% BF zone. Got any magic answers for me or do I need to give myself more time to reach this goal?
Since you have been in this zone before is it easier for you to return to the sub 10% range? I have no problem going from 14% to 12%..it starts to get tough after that.
Hope you follow what I’m getting at..would appreciate your thoughts.
Paul
Posted on Dec 16, 2005 03:54 PM
Todd said:
Wow. Thanks for the guidance, Cherie! I really appreciate that. :)
Posted on Dec 16, 2005 10:13 PM
Jon Benson said:
To Mike:
Oh, I can use all the help you care to give me bro!
Yes, if anyone cares to reach Mike, email me — I’m happy to help. Mike is a wonderful coach — that’s all I can say.
To Todd:
Thank you bro! Louie was a biggie, that’s for sure! He inspired a ton of people.
To Cherie:
Tropical Traditions is excellent — all for it!
To Anna:
You’ll like my gift…that’s all I can say at the moment.
The thing is I have to balance my blogging with a schedule that is already that of three people (ask anyone who knows or works with me.) It’s a labor of love — but I choose to draw lines on how much time I personally ‘can’ spend answering issues that are best covered by M-Power, or personal coaching.
Still, gift a comin…for everyone.
To Paul:
Many thanks!
It’s just as challenging ‘now’ as it was before, but that’s only due to the long layoff described earlier. Still, I would think “knowing” you can do it really helps, so yeah…I’m sure it will come easier.
You must shock, stimulate, surprise and freak the body during this process, otherwise you will stall. You’re doing the right thing.
The “magic answer” is simple — keep going. Do not make “10%” your end-all goal; make “continual progress” your end-all goal. You may find there are times when body fat is not part of that progress, but strength is. Perhaps you become better at your meal plan…see where I’m going? Eventually you’ll hit that 10%.
Posted on Dec 19, 2005 12:04 PM
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