Mudder Memories to Last a Lifetime

When Amy first mentioned she was interested in putting together a team for the Tough Mudder event, I was uncertain I could complete the run, let alone challenge myself to jump into 36 degree ice cold water, get shocked by electrical wires, and jump off a 20 foot wall, just to name a few of the obstacles we had to endure. Once I came on board and Amy started the training, I knew I was in good hands.

Tough Mudder Arizona TrainingAs a team, we trained just as though we were on the course at the actual TM event. We crawled thru tunnels, ran an average of 10 + miles each time we trained on those Saturday mornings, got down and dirty in the mud, crossed monkey bars, scaled walls and even jumped into a freezing cold swimming pool in winter months.

Amy went above and beyond to train us and prepare us for the endurance and stamina needed to complete Tough Mudder Arizona. Her dedication to this event was encouraging and propelled us all to do our best. We all accomplished physical and mental feats that went beyond our expectations.

When we trained we were out for 4 hours many times in the dark, cold and rain (and mud).  I truly think that is why we all finished Tough Mudder with such success.Tough Mudder Fire Run

We were well prepared and knew what we had to do. Becoming a part of the team and being trained by Amy is a memory I will never forget. The feeling of accomplishment in completing this physical and mental event was beyond description especially working together as TEAM AVC.

We shared something together that created a special bond of sister and brotherhood that will always remain in our hearts.  A life time memory indeed!

~ Patti

When was the last time you were inspired by being part of a team? Twice a week small group training gives you that opportunity. Challenge yourself, grow strong and share in the fitness accomplishments of a team again. Now in session – learn more today!

Controlling Diabetes at Any Age

I am a 57 year old Type 1 Diabetic that was looking to lower my A1C blood test results from the 7+ mark that had become the norm and also to improve my core strength that I was seeing diminish with age.

TRX Pike Push UpI knew some loyal followers of AVC Elite Training and was impressed with the results they were experiencing. Within months I could feel & see the improvement in my core.

I continue to surprise myself with the level of fitness that I have attained and how natural it feels to push myself even further. Since starting this exercise regime, my A1C test results have been consistently 6.7 – 6.8. My doctor is impressed & so am I.

~Joan

Don’t let diabetes – or other medical conditions – keep you from pursuing your health and fitness goals. Training modifications and heart rate monitoring can ensure both your safety and progress, especially within the encouraging community of AVC Elite Training. Contact Coach Amy and come check it out!

Breaking Bad Self-talk Improves Fitness

I’ve always been active in some way, shape or form, but started to fall into that typical slump where I would find myself making excuses not to exercise, either because I had to rush the kids to their practices, or I had to rush home to make dinner or simply because it was just too hot outside.

I stumbled acrossSide-Squat-Walk Amy by accident when I was supposed to be checking out CrossFit.  I thought to myself “Jackpot, this is exactly what I’ve been looking for!”, then Amy said “CrossFit is across the street,” I was so disappointed, but I went across the street anyway and tried out my one day free trial at CrossFit.

Afterwards, I immediately ran back across the street to AVC Elite Training. It was clear that AVC Elite Training was top notch over what CrossFit had to offer. I just stood there intrigued and so motivated by watching the group train that I knew I had to be part of it. So I joined in May and never looked back.

Double agility ladderI remember watching the group in awe, thinking I could never do the things that they can do, but wanted to so badly. Since I have joined TEAM AVC, I can see my strength and endurance build up each time I train. I’ll admit I still can’t do everything to its fullest, but each session I feel I am getting better, stronger and more proficient in the execution of Amy’s training.

I see all of the incredible results that the other trainees have accomplished in the training which has motivated me to no end to keep on going and to push myself in a positive direction breaking down the “I can’t” attitude and turning it into the “YES I CAN” attitude!

I wish I could explain why I get so excited Sunday night anticipating our Monday morning training so much so that I even lose sleep, but it’s something you would have to experience for yourself. Amy’s training is never the same and never boring.

She takes care of each and every one of us to make sure we don’t over exert ourselves and always reminds us to stay hydrated. She teaches us running techniques and encourages us to take it at our own pace. She monitors our heart rate making it mandatory to wear a heart monitor at all times in our training. She instructs and teaches proper technique and form, keeping our safety in mind at all times.  

Thanks to Amy, I no longer make excuses about not exercising and make my training a priority. It has become a part of my lifestyle now and there’s no turning back. I’ve dropped 10 lbs. (with proper diet of course) and with Amy’s help will continue to build strength and endurance with each class.

Thanks Amy for making such a huge difference in my health and well-being.
~ Sandra M.

Looking to break free of your negative self-talk and discover renewed health and fitness? Be cautious of Crossfit and other fitness fads and find out about your fitness professional. What’s their education? What fitness certifications do they have and who trained them? What do their clients’ say about training with them?  Ask for yourself!

Tough Mudder Delivers for This Doctor

I have known Amy Van Cleve for many years. Amy’s enthusiasm and love for fitness motivated me to participate in 2 half marathons, a 10K and a duathlon.

When Amy asked me to participate in the Tough Mudder race, initially I was terrified. As I heard that the Tough Mudder race was the most grueling obstacle course created, so I was a little nervous.

toughmudderAnd also, I didn’t think I could sacrifice a lot of training time because of my busy work schedule. As a busy solo obstetrician and gynecologist, I am always on call so I was concerned about the time.

After much thought and soliciting back up coverage during training, I agreed to participate. I didn’t know what I was getting myself into, but knowing Amy, the training was going to be a well-organized training schedule with the focus on increasing endurance and reducing risks of injuries before and during the event.

Tough-Mudder-Training-AZOur training consisted of weekly Saturday morning workouts, 3-4 hours in length in addition to twice weekly small group workouts (3 hours). The training was long and grueling but fun.

We trained in the heat, cold and rain. We ran over 100 miles, lots of pull ups, jumps ropes, jump squats to name a few. Every Saturday morning, our Tough Mudder training group would receive a wake up text from Coach Amy encouraging us to be on time for our 7:00 am training.

Speaking of my training crew, we had an awesome time training together. I love each and every one. We complained together, laughed together and encourage each other when we were not pushing hard enough and nurtured each other during some of our minor injuries.  What a great team spirit!

Arizona MudathonThrough out the entire training, Amy was also encouraging and selfless. Even when she was injured and not feeling well she always gave it her all, encouraging me to give it my all.

I have always enjoyed exercising, but Amy pushed me to get into the best shape of my life. I am a better runner and cyclist since my Tough Mudder training. And by being in excellent shape I have started training for my first triathlon. Never prior to my Tough Mudder training or working out with Amy, would I have ever thought of training for this type of event. But I know I can do it!

The Tough Mudder event was a blast! The Tough Mudder event wasn’t as tough as I thought, because of the training readiness facilitated by Amy.

Amy bring on the next challenge.

~ Dr. Stephine

Are you looking for a fitness challenge? Stay tuned for an exciting announcement from Team AVC,  with big plans for additional training involving a special destination event in 2014.

A Physically and Mentally Healthier Lifestyle

Approximately a year and a half ago, my sister-in-law talked me into signing up for the Wall ClimbingAVC Elite Training Natural Running Program instructed by Amy, or otherwise known as “Coach AVC.”

I opted for this program knowing that it would only require a couple of hours on my Saturday mornings. At the time, being a full-time working mother of a toddler, I treasured my weekends with my girl and didn’t want to spend a lot of time away from her so this seemed like an ideal fitness program for me.

This choice, also lead me to become a trainee with the AVC Elite Group Training Program meeting two days a week. The Small Group Training Program is so jam packed with diverse and challenging training that I knew I was maximizing my time to its fullest.

Kettlebell training Mesa AZ

I was getting great well rounded instruction along with receiving cutting edge training that has given me incredible results – all in just 2 days a week. What a perfect fit for my busy schedule and lifestyle!

This has all been a life altering decision for me. It has lead to many exciting opportunities, Arizona Tough Mudder Teama physically and mentally healthier lifestyle and the chance to form new and long-lasting friendships. In this past year and a half through Amy’s diverse and informative training classes, I have been able to complete two half marathons and complete the Tough Mudder event as a member of Team AVC Tough Mudder.

Most importantly, by example, I have taught my beautiful and spirited 4 year old daughter that girls can do anything and that an active lifestyle is one of the best ways to live a happy, healthy and fun life!

As my girl gets older, I look forward to making memories and participating in physical activities as a family. Perhaps we will create traditions that my girl will continue with her family in years to come.

Thank you for everything, Amy. My future grandchildren thank you too!

~Heather

What healthy traits do you model for your kids? Want to reinvigorate and encourage both physical and mental health in your routine? Check out upcoming AVC Elite Training small group training sessions in Mesa, Arizona starting soon.

A Tough Mudder 58th Birthday Present

When first approached with participating the Tough Mudder Challenge, I checked out the website to see what it was all about. I found my heart racing and my breathing become rapid at the sight of crawling through darkened tunnels, darting through 110 volts of live wire and jumping off 15ft platforms! I was thinking, “I’m too old for this!” Consequently, I declined joining the AVC Elite Tough MuddElite-Training-Happy-Hourer Team.

Fast forward to about a month later to a happy hour with AVC Elite Members.  After two Chardonnays, I was on board!  I was still scared but committed! I knew I could run the 12 miles, but all those obstacles!

Amy created a comprehensive program to begin in October. Just prior to this I incurred an injury to my lower back, pirisformis and sciatica. Uh, oh, could I do this now?

I attempted the training with Amy creating modifications for my injury. This assistance along with physical therapy, allowed me to pursue my goal. With persistent effort and Amy’s guidance during training, I was able to run 13 miles and complete the obstacles she devised.

tough-mudder-training-modificationsAmy created tunnels, found fences for us to jump over, parks with monkey bars, climbing walls, as well as, 6ft. walls to scale (with other members’ help of course). She maintained constant communication, support and advice to the TM team.

Amy’s technical guidance allowed me to cope with my injury and improve its status. On February 23, 2013, I along with my fellow teammates completed the Tough Mudder challenge without injury and with smiles on our faces! Happy-58th-Tough-Mudder

I truly believe it was Amy’s intense and supportive coaching that allowed for such a successful outcome for all. I felt an achievement in overcoming some long held fears and coping with an injury that could have side lined me for a long time. It was the best 58th Birthday present I could have given myself!

Thanks Amy for your all your guidance and support!

~ Cynthia

How about celebrating your birthday with the gift of overcoming fear and tackling new goals – at any age. Learn more about AVC Elite Training and how Coach Amy modifies training to suit everybody and every age while achieving new fitness accomplishments.