Dean Miskiman

I have been a fitness client of INLIV's for about 5 years. I came to the trainers at INLIV after my body had been put through many years of neglect, caused, in part, by corporate “busyness” and a young family. I didn’t feel good about myself and knew something had to change.

I still remember my first testing session; it was both embarrassing and motivating at the same time. My body fat percentage was high, my muscle tone and strength were low and my “endurance” was non-existent. I was not feeling great at this point, but my trainers were very encouraging and focused on the positives, such as my commitment to make a positive change to my health.

As time passed, I became stronger and stronger, both mentally and physically. Instead of dreading my time at the gym, I began to enjoy it. I credit my early personal trainers for this transformation. They each brought a diverse background in sport and fitness and shared their experiences with me. I tried to do the same with them on subjects in which I had knowledge. In short, it was more than just a trainer and client relationship—true friendships were formed.

Fast forward to 2010…and I have suddenly become a runner!

I’m not sure how this happened because I used to have a strong disregard for running. I give full credit to my trainers for setting lofty goals and having high expectations. We started out relatively slow, building up to 5 km, followed by a 10 km Destination at the Mother’s Day race this past May. I would have been happy to pack it in at that point but then my trainer asked “why don’t you do the ½ marathon in Vegas in December?” Well, who can argue with Vegas right? So off we went.

My running has continued and I’m actually looking forward to the Vegas ½ marathon and trying to keep up with my trainer! I’m hoping to finish the race in around 2 hours but, given this is my first half a marathon, I guess I’m guaranteed to set a personal best. No matter how I do, I know that I am much healthier and happier, and thanks my friends at INLIV for pushing me to this point and being so encouraging.

-Dean Miskiman

Dean successfully completed the half marathon in Las Vegas and set a personal best to be proud of!