09/08/2025
🎉Chad Rawls's Inspiring Success Story 2.0 as an HD Member🎉
We initially shared Chad's inspiring journey in February 2022. Since that time, he has experienced an astonishing transformation after overcoming a minor setback. Therefore, we believe it is essential to celebrate his remarkable success once again.
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Upon joining Health Directions, Chad teamed up with Dr. Cline at Lexington Family Practice, who helped him set a practical weight loss goal. Given Chad's extensive history of morbid obesity, his doctor suggested a target range, leading Chad to focus on achieving a weight of 225 pounds.
According to Chad, he faced several significant risk factors. At just 51 years young, he was managing diabetes, high blood pressure, and weighed over 350 pounds. Aware that any of these conditions could impact his health at any time, Chad understood the pressing need to take action before it became too late.
👉“I've lost almost 140 lbs. to this point. I didn't realize how many more changes that would lead to. I've reduced my blood pressure dosage by 75%, and my numbers have been so good. I hope to be completely off the meds on my next doctor's visit. My resting pulse rate has dropped almost 25 points. I'm no longer taking medication to control my diabetes. There have been a lot of great changes.”👈
Chad was initially invited to share his success story 2.0 in June 2025. However, he chose to postpone it until he achieved his goal. As of September 4, 2025, Chad is thrilled to announce that he has not only reached his goal but exceeded it. He surpassed his target by 9 pounds and now weighs 216 pounds!
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Chad has noted that his training routine has transformed over the course of his journey. As he loses weight, enjoys enhanced well-being, and experiences a boost in energy, his training adjusts to match these changes. So, what does Chad's current training schedule look like?
💪 He walks an average of 5 miles each day.
💪 He engages in strength training 3-4 days a week at HD.
💪 He incorporates higher intensity cardio, such as cycling and High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) on the treadmill at HD.
💪 When time permits, Chad enjoys hiking and kayaking as well.
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When asked what advice would you offer others facing challenges similar to yours?
👉“Be patient and take the small wins. You're not going to hit home runs every week. I wanted to lose over 130 lbs. That was going to take time, and I'm not particularly patient. The good weeks motivate you, but you can't let slow weeks discourage you. There are plenty of both along the way. Stick with your plan. It's a marathon, not a sprint.”👈
When asked how have Health Directions helped you improve/reach your goal?
👉“I couldn't have done any of this without the support I receive from Health Directions. As a gym, it provides all the equipment, machines, and classes one would need to reach any goal. But it's way more than just a gym; it's the support from the staff and members. The encouragement I've received is the biggest single factor in my success so far. It's what drives me on the days I struggle to walk through the door. It's a very uplifting atmosphere—one I'm grateful I've become a part of.”👈
🎉Wonderful testimony, Chad! You are wise to invest excellently in your health and inspire others to do the same! Thank you for sharing your experience and trusting us to help you along your health and wellness journey. Your HD family is proud of you and looking forward to serving you for many more years!🎉