Our Success Stories

Stephanie: Virginia Beach, VA
I had always been the fat kid, the fat girl, the fat woman. It defined me, and it was my excuse for anything in my life that didn't work out. But as I dove into my late 30s, I was quickly approaching 300 pounds and feeling more and more terrible and self-conscious every day. I knew I was unhealthy but I was afraid to do anything about it - afraid I would fail, afraid I couldn't stick to anything, and afraid of not being able to hide behind my fat anymore.

But seeing what Jim White and his team did for a friend of mine, I felt that maybe there was hope for me.

45 pounds later and countless inches lost, I amaze myself every day.  I'm not that fat kid anymore - I'm confident and strong and I feel great, inside and out. I actually believe in myself and my time here has really brought out the "real Stephanie" - the one that had been afraid to come out for 30 years. And I'm not even done yet.  

So thank you Jim and Carol for helping me find confidence, strength and happiness where I never thought possible.  You truly have changed my life!

Catherine: Virginia Beach, VA
We realized that we were not living up to the standards we believed in. Not only were we unhappy with the way we looked, but we always felt lousy. So we finally decided to do something about it. We agreed to be in this together as a team, and hold each other accountable. We went to JWFNS and got our measurements done and a big touch of motivation. We started working out six days per week, and ate an extremely clean diet. Once a week (usually on Friday), we enjoy a "reward" meal, which consists of anything we want, in whatever amount we desire. Mexican and Italian are our favorites. We started seeing results quickly! Here's our advice: you cannot control all of the circumstances of life, but you can control who you are and how you choose to live your life. Transforming your physique can extend to rewards far beyond the physical. Not only will it develop inner strength and confidence, but becoming a better you will set the example for others to do the same. Want to make a difference? Re-create yourself. » Darius Story

Casi: Virginia Beach, VA
Jimmy and Casi have been long-time advocates of leading a healthy lifestyle. They enjoy their leisure time by indulging in fine food, fine wine and the greater tastes in life. They both started with Jim White Fitness & Nutrition Studios and transformed their bodies while maintaining a balanced lifestyle.

With Jim White Fitness, I have lost 15 pounds and completely re-shaped my body. As a whole, everything is much firmer. I have lost the most inches from my waist and hips, but in my legs and arms I have also seen a dramatic improvement in muscle definition. My speed on the tennis court has increased due to the shear fact of dropping weight, and the agile movements that Jim and Jamel have me work on has allowed me to take my game to the next level. I lift for an hour, with cardio for 30 to 45 minutes three times a week, and cross-train the other three. Six total. I always give myself a day to recover. With those workouts, my speed and energy on the tennis court has increased and my snacking throughout the day has really helped me control my cravings.

I would tell others that it's okay to let yourself indulge every now and then. Not only to allow yourself to do it, but do indulge and don't feel bad about it. (Even if it's ice cream and wine, my favorite indulgences. Thanks to Jim, I have learned to prepare amazing gourmet dishes with a healthy twist.) Make sure to work out consistently. DO NOT skip your snacks and, when dining out, go for the lean protein choice and always ask for the "sauce on the side!" » Jimmy's Story

Rhonda: Virginia Beach, VA
I was very excited when my daughter came to me with the challenge of working out together; although I had no idea that I would ever be able to keep up with the regimen of a college athlete! The REAL challenge, however, was that she didn't just want to return to the gym — she wanted a "life style change" and a new approach to nutrition and healthy eating and cooking! I knew just where to go — Jim White Fitness!

Jim taught us how to completely overhaul our pantries and refrigerators; and provided us with a daily nutritional plan that was achieveable and enjoyable. Thanks to JWFNS, I can honestly say that I am "hooked" on healthier eating; and have learned to incorporate my favorite sinful pleasures into a new nutritional lifestyle — a new habit! Although everyday is a work in progress, I actually find myself unconsciously eating and drinking differently!

I never believed that I could lose my "problem areas" and actually have muscle; but thanks to Jim and Jamel's encouragement and support, txts, and emails — my daughter and I have both seen amazing results! I have miraculously lost 22 pounds, over 10 inches and gone down 4 dress sizes; and can't imagine ever changing my new routine! I recently celebrated my 30th wedding anniversary and surprised my husband by wearing the dress I wore the night we got engaged. Thank you sooo much, Jim and Jamel and Jake! You have helped to bring so much joy to our family!

Annette: Virginia Beach, VA
So, what has JWFNS done for me? I've lost weight—the diet works. Are those muscles? Yep, and they keep getting bigger! More energy— check. But what is this other thing? I've started to like exercise. I did not just admit to that, did I? I believe in myself and am more confident. That's definitely important, but not it. So, what is it? It's JOY, the joy of discovering me and what I can do; finding out what's easier to do than yesterday, and doing what I haven't done in years. It's wondering if I can — and finding out, yes, I can. What has JWFNS done for me? They've given me my life back and the ability to enjoy it. Thanks, Jeremy, for proving what I can do.

Ellen: Virginia Beach, VA
I don't think I was ever in really bad shape, but after joining the Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad, learning I had low bone density, and getting closer and closer to a big birthday, I decided I better get serious about improving myself. I sat down with Jim and he handwrote a nutritional plan for me, then he set me up to train with Lauren and Patty.

All I can say is, wow. In 18 months, I've lost 30 pounds and 30 inches. Let me say that again: I've lost 30 pounds and 30 inches. Even more important is what I've gained: confidence, energy and strength. It's an amazing feeling. At the rescue squad we like to "live by example," and I truly feel I do, thanks to the kind, encouraging, enthusiastic professionals at Jim White Fitness & Nutrition Studios. Make the best decision of your life and get fit!

Michelle: Washingon DC
Calling Jim White is one of the best decisions that I have ever made. When I walked into our first meeting, I weighed 168 pounds, wore a size 12 (pushing a size 14), and had just been told by my doctor that my cholesterol numbers were reaching a point that would soon see me on medication. Not only was my physical health in decline, but so was my psychological and social well being.

Jim talked with me about my lifestyle, schedule, and food likes/dislikes, in order to devise a nutritional and exercise plan that would put me on the path to success. In less than three months of working with Jim, I lost 28 pounds and three dress sizes (now a size 6). And, my bad cholesterol dropped 40 points!

Not only has my physical body and health transformed, so has my social and emotional well being. I no longer feel overwhelmed at having lost control of my weight. Today, I control it — it does not control me!

Jenny: Virginia Beach, VA
I’ve worked out with a number of local trainers over the years and have been generally pleased with the results. I’ve been working with JWFNS now for about 8 months, and the results have gone well beyond anything I’ve been able to achieve before. Jim and his team bring a level of commitment and enthusiasm that keeps me applied and focused on my goals. During this time, I’ve lost 20 pounds and am toned in places I never even thought about before. While I still splurge on occasion, Jim has helped me better understand the impact my diet has on my body. All the efforts come together to give me a much higher level of fitness capability and ultimately a much improved end result. I look forward to my workouts with JWFNS and hopefully you can see why!

Jo Anne: Virginia Beach, VA
Just over a year ago, I sought a professional partner-in-healing who could understand my goals, particularly, to customize for me a very specific strength training plan, to create a workout program to build my cardiac stamina, and to develop a clinically, specific nutritional plan. Jim White made that happen for me. He created a specific dietary strategy based on my nutritional profile. He knows how to respond to my health and energy levels as I move through a workout, offering encouragement, enthusiasm and support. This is the first time in my life I can say that a professional in this field has contributed to my wellness in such an extraordinary, respectful, interactive way. As a result, I have lost 26 pounds, 6% body fat and 19 inches overall. I run one to three miles almost every day, and have more energy than ever! I continue to enjoy working with Jim on a weekly basis.

Melissa: Norfolk, VA
I tried for years to eat well and exercise consistently, but I lacked the motivation and the discipline. Little did I know, I also lacked the knowledge to take my diet and exercise to the next level. Even if I had the discipline, I was never going to reach my goals alone.

With the help of Jim, I have surpassed all my expectations! He helped me see the error in my diet and exercise regimen. He also tailored a program specific to my needs and helped me stick to it! With constant encouragement, I reached my goals in record time. I have been given tools that I will use for the rest of my life.

I feel happier, healthier and more confident. Best of all, I look better than I have ever looked in my life. Thanks!

Stephanie: Virginia Beach, VA
"Overwhelmed and resigned" to "encouraged and empowered" describe my before and after experience with JWFNS. Previously, I had only given a mediocre effort towards exercise, but saw no sense in continuing since I had not experienced the type of results I was hoping to achieve. I became resigned that this was my “mature” body in which I would simply exist. Subsequently, after having met and worked with Jim White, I have a stronger and much healthier body that I am proud not only to exist in, but to LIVE in.

Jim personally tailored my nutrition plan to match my individual physical goals. My health should have always been my first priority — now, because of Jim’s help, I’m empowered to maintain a healthy, llifelong lifestyle. I have lost over 10 inches in body measurements and decreased my body fat to within a optimal range!

My sources of information in the past were books and magazines that were confusing in their advice. Having Jim White on my side gives me all I need to know to allow my individual body to function at its best performance possible.

Heather: Phoenix, AZ
"I travel a lot for work." That has always been my excuse for the 50 extra pounds I put on in the last two years.  So while I was in Virginia Beach working for eight months I decided it was time to lose weight. Someone at the diet center I was going to recommended I go see the folks at JWFNS. After my consultation with Eric McLaughlin, I set my workouts to three days a week and started the recommended diet.

Within the first month times were tough, I found myself not wanting to stick with the diet, or not giving it my all at the gym. But with Eric's support and guidance I was on the right track in no time.

I can honestly say that without the emotional and mental support I couldn't have made it on my own. All the knowledge and information gained during my time spent training with Eric is now being applied to my everyday life. I am a much happier and healthy person and have JWFNS to thank for that!

Christina: Virgina Beach, VA
I FEEL FABULOUS! Thanks to Eric and the team at JWFNS, I was able to lose 60 pounds and six dress sizes in an 11 month period.

After reading a women’s weight loss success story online mentioning Jim’s studio, I immediately gave them a call. I was ready to make a change after doing nothing but make excuses for three years. I consulted with Eric and was immediately pumped to get started. The initial consult provided so much knowledge that opened my eyes to what I was doing to my body with my current lifestyle. Eric is so passionate about health, fitness and exercise, it was contagious. He put up with quite a bit of back talk and bargaining but never backed down which made me push even harder! He motivated me to start running local races and now I LOVE it!

The experience has been invigorating, motivating and enlightening. I have found an overall improvement in my health, confidence and passion for life. My energy is never ending, my thought process is different in my lifestyle choices and I wouldn’t change a thing! I owe many thanks to Eric McLaughlin and the team at JWFNS for sharing their knowledge and passion for nutrition and health!

Donna: Norfolk, VA
LIFE CHANGING is how I would describe my experience with Jim White. I had gained weight from poor eating habits and medications I had been prescribed for my recently diagnosed Rheumatoid Arthritis. I felt so bad from the RA, weight gain, and realization that I was very overweight that I was constantly miserable. The person I looked at in the mirror was unrecognizable to me. How did this happen? I had hopes of losing the weight without making the commitment to exercise but eventually realized that it was going to take a drastic change for me to get into better shape. I started with Jim and was lucky enough to make it a firm commitment to the diet he outlined and the workouts. It only took about four months to lose 35 pounds and I can’t believe how much better I feel. I have my life back!

Kelly: Virginia Beach, VA
I have always been a long distance runner. After the birth of my son 4 years ago, I was diagnosed with Celiac disease. The only cure is a gluten-free diet, which ironically is what most marathon runners depend on to fuel their bodies. I implemented a strict gluten-free diet and began running again until I developed colitis. I not only lost weight and strength very quickly, but I couldn’t do anything for months.

After medications and treatments I began to run again and train for the Rock'n'Roll Half Marathon. My only problem was that I couldn’t fuel my body enough, even with supplements, to perform for over an hour. This is when I sought out JWFNS because Jim is a registered dietitian and trainer who works with athletes. Jim worked with my gluten-free diet by deleting and adding foods that would help to fuel my body for the longer runs. We worked on core strength training and building my body back to perform for the long haul.

Within 5 months I lost 6 inches and 8 pounds. I ran the Shamrock Marathon, never hit “the wall,” and qualified for the Boston Marathon—something I thought was a thing of the past. This just proves that even with GI diseases you do not have to be limited as an endurance athlete, just seek the right guidance and expertise. Thanks Jim!

Noel: Virginia Beach, VA
Before coming to JWFNS I worked out with a personal trainer 3 times a week. Even though I worked out hard, I didn’t see many results. Jim and Craig educated me on how nutrition was 80 percent of the equation.

I slowly began to change my diet and within 2 months I lost 20 pounds! I even exercised less training 2 days a week instead of 3, which saved money! Everywhere I go today, people comment on how much my body has changed. I now get in sizes I haven’t fit in for 10 years! They have totally made me believe in myself, the power of nutrition, and that I can maintain my body shape all year long.

Sally: Virginia Beach, VA
At 60 years of age, I have spent most of that time trying to get in shape. After years of high cholesterol, bad eating habits and sedentary lifestyle, poor health finally caught up with me. I had a heart attack at age 39 with another following at age 41. I had a heart stent put in 7 years ago and finally my doctor advised me that I needed a defibrillator because I was at high risk for sudden death. I heard about JWFNS and set up a consult with Craig Hamilton.

Craig started me on a weight and cardio training program. Finally, the weight and inches started to come off and stay off. Craig has helped me achieve goals I never thought possible.

On my last doctor’s visit, my cholesterol was within normal limits and the ejection fraction of my heart was back up where it should be. My doctor told me that if these results were evident 7 years ago when I had my defibrillator put in, he would never have considered it. Thank you, Craig and Jim White Fitness from the bottom of my now-healthy heart for helping me climb the mountain of fitness and coming out stronger and healthier on the other side.

Liz: Virginia Beach, VA
Three years ago, at age 46 and 188 pounds for my 5'2” frame, having hypertension, elevated cholesterol, depression and at a loss for what to do next, a friend said to me “go and talk to Jim White and see if he can help you.” And did he ever! Jim assessed my diet, gave me direction, and I began the Jim White way of eating. I have completely changed what, when and how I eat. Jim noted that I had a L4-5 spinal fusion 3 years prior and I was skeptical that I could be successful training in a gym, let alone attain the physique I now have. They proved me wrong.

Jim matched me up with Eric McLaughlin as my personal trainer. Eric has stuck with me through my ups and downs, both physical and emotional during the past 3 years. He has seen me at my worst and my best. Eric never gave up on me, even though at times I felt I might give up on myself. His positive motivation, encouragement, enthusiasm and drive have helped me to transform my life. I now see I can do anything if I put my mind to it.

I have lost 47 pounds and have kept it off for over 3 years. My blood pressure medicine has been halved and my cholesterol level is down 40 points. Last year I had neck surgery and was absent for 3 months, but the Jim White team helped me bounce back on my return. They cared about me as a whole individual not just about my physique. People have said to me “that must be expensive, going to personal training." I tell them they cannot put a price on health!

Karen: Virginia Beach, VA
I never thought of myself as the "fat chick." I avoided mirrors and photographs and just imagined myself as the athlete that I used to be. I tried to forget that I could barely squeeze into a size 14 anymore. I was just careful about choosing my clothes so that I didn't need to tuck in shirts, hiding my bulging waistline. About 2 years ago, I had lost weight after running many miles every week. However, since my poor eating habits never changed, when I got bored with running, I quickly gained back all the weight I had lost plus another 10 pounds. After reading about one of Jim's success stories, I realized that his program could provide the motivation I needed to make a fresh start in 2009. In January, I started his program at my highest weight of 187 pounds.

Jim unlocked the secret to healthy eating for me. By making a few tweaks in my food choices and eating 5 mini-meals per day instead of 3 large ones, I found that my junk food cravings went away. As a lifelong "junk food junkie," I couldn't believe it when they actually went away! Not that I never eat junk food anymore, it's just no longer a nightly event. The first 20 pounds seemed to melt away with me losing about 2 or 3 pounds per week. In addition to making better food choices, I do cardio 3 or 4 times per week and lift weights 2 times per week. I have lost 25 pounds total and am still working towards losing another 15. More importantly, I am confident that this time I will keep it off.

Shelley: Virginia Beach, VA
First of all I’d like to say “Thank you Jim!” I honestly feel like I couldn’t have accomplished losing over 50 pounds without Jim’s program and constant encouragement.

For years, I spent too much time thinking about losing weight. I don’t even remember gaining it all, but slowly it just happened. After attending culinary school and having two children, I was up to 188 pounds at age 31. All I wanted for my birthday was to lose the weight. So, as a gift, I began with Jim and Craig. I did and listened to everything they said and the weight just kept coming off— 3-4 pounds a week. In three months, I’ve lost over 50 pounds. I now have 20 more to go, and feel confident that I will make my goal. The best part is that now I have the knowledge of a great new way to eat, feel confident in the gym and I enjoy it. Also, the weight loss has made me a more confident women!

Lauren: Virginia Beach, VA
About 6 months ago, I decided that I wanted to get into better shape. In the past, I had always been a very active person who loved to dance, play tennis, and swim. I began to realize that I was losing energy, gaining weight and letting myself go. I knew that I was not going to be able to do this on my own; I needed help, motivation and support.

Enter Jim White and Craig Hamilton. Jim and Craig met with me and advised me on healthy eating, portion control and proper training. When I would get frustrated after hitting a plateau, they would change my eating plan so I could continue to reach my goal. I lost 30 pounds on the Get Jim White Fit program. I have now gained more muscle mass and energy than I had before. My goal is to continue training and get my body into top shape. Guys, thank you for working with me and pushing me to change my life - YOU and YOUR STAFF ARE THE BEST!

Michelle: Virginia Beach, VA
For years and years I have struggled with my weight. Ever since high school, I have always been unsatisfied with the way I looked and my lifestyle. When I reached 280 pounds, my doctor told me that if I wanted to have a future I was going to have to make some big changes in my lifestyle. That’s when I said “enough is enough” and decided to change everything.

I started exercising but I wasn’t getting results. I tried everything there was and nothing worked; the weight was still there. I got married and moved to Virginia Beach where I came across Jim White Fitness & Nutrition Studios. I had no idea this would change my life forever. I met Craig and he worked with me to start shedding pounds and inches. He taught me how to eat right and exercise. I finally started seeing results! I’ve lost over 40 lbs, 14 inches on my waist and 32 inches overall! I’m in sizes that I never thought I’d see. I love who I see in the mirror — thanks to Craig and Jim White Fitness & Nutrition Studios.

Sherri Gaddy: Virginia Beach, VA
I grew up in a home where junk food was an acceptable breakfast and exercise was not part of life. My body was able to compensate for this lifestyle for many years. However, as I got older, had a baby and struggled with balancing the stress of life, my body could no longer overcome what I was doing to it. I tried several fad diets, losing weight only to gain it back and more. I also used my thyroid condition as a crutch to why I couldn't lose weight. When I reached the point that I weighed more than I did when I was nine months pregnant, I knew it was time to make a permanent lifestyle change.

I knew I couldn't do it on my own so I sought out help from Jim White Fitness & Nutrition Studios. The JWFNS team assessed my obstacles that had caused me to fail in prior attempts to lose weight and designed a program in and out of the gym that I could consistently adhere to. They provided me constant motivation, a positive attitude and encouragement at every step. During my training at JWFNS I seen dramatic results as a lost over 20 lbs and many inches.

Because of past failures, I was ready to give up before I reached out to JWFNS. Thank you so much for giving me the faith I needed to accomplish this goal and the tools and knowledge needed to make it a permanent change. I couldn't have done it without you guys!

Kim K.: Virginia Beach, VA
I decided I needed the motivation of a personal trainer and researched many locations in Virginia Beach. I chose Jim White Fitness because it was immediately obvious that Jim is an expert trainer. The fact that he is also a registered dietitian made my decision that much easier.

I have been training with Jim for 5 months and have lost over 25 lbs and 3 dress sizes with a combination of cardio, strength training, and proper nutrition. I feel great and love my personal training sessions.

Jim continually adjusts my workout and nutrition plan to help me overcome plateaus. He truly cares about his clients and even sends me emails when I am on my vacation to assist me in maintaining my fitness program. I am actually running (a little) and doing regulation push-ups for the first time in my life! My transformation was so dramatic that it made it on as a success story for Better Home’s and Gardens.

Jim White Fitness goes the extra mile to ensure you achieve your fitness goals. If you are looking for a total body transformation—look no more—this is it!

Helena: Virginia Beach, VA
My eating habits were always healthy and I have enjoyed working out in the past, but I kept putting on weight every year. Jim taught me “portion control” with my healthy eating habits and tailored an ever-changing workout specifically for me. Whenever I would hit a plateau, Jim and I would discuss my eating habits and my cardio program. He would “tweak” something that would again “kick start” my weight loss goal.

I worked out for years with other personal trainers before Jim, but never with any results. With Jim and his staff you get results!

So far I have lost 14 inches from my waist and hips inches and over 40 lbs. I am amazed! And I love it! I have gone down 4 pants sizes. Jim and his staff are amazing!

Ashley: Virginia Beach, VA
Big thanks to my new Jim White Fitness Studio family, Chris, Jim and Craig. I have lost over 50 pounds and plan to lose 20 more. My life has changed drastically. I have never been so energized or happy.

At 27 years old and 204 pounds, I had given up on trying to be skinny, but one day something clicked and I decided I no longer wanted to be the “Fat Girl.” My friend Shelly told me about Jim White Fitness & Nutrition Studios and her success with the program. I told myself that I could do it too. Since day one, Jim and Chris have been by my side encouraging me through this huge transformation. This experience has changed my life forever, and now when people say the word “skinny” around me I get goose bumps. I never thought that word could be associated with me. I have made a life-long commitment to keep the weight off, and now have the motivation and courage to do so. My new motto is “28 and ready to date.” Words cannot express the gratitude I have for the JWFNS team. Thank you again!

Kim: Virginia Beach, VA
I have had what I always thought was a pretty serious fitness routine for the past nine or so years. Running, lifting weights, and eating healthy. I continued my routine without many challenges, but noticed about a year ago my body starting to "change."

I found myself in a position of searching for a personal trainer to help me get back on track. I visited many gyms and talked to several trainers before I met with Jim White and Craig Hamilton. It was obvious they offered something I needed. They counseled me on some options for my new program and we were on our way. I wrote down every single thing that went into my mouth for 30 days. Was it fun? The results were, and continue to be! I have lost inches and pounds everywhere and look forward to reaching my fitness goals with continued support from Jim White Fitness & Nutrition Studios. Friends ask me "What are you doing? You look great!" and it's exciting to share that there is a place in Hampton Roads that will get you on track for the rest of your life. Thanks Guys!

Lisa : Virginia Beach, VA
After years of weight gain I decided to start the Get Jim White Fit ACCELERATED program. By training with Jim and Chris and following their plan, I have completely transformed my body and my life.
I was able to lose 40 pounds and 15 inches off my waist, hips and thighs.

My transformation has been nothing short of miraculous, and I now have more energy for my business, family and life. Thank you Jim White Fitness!

Beth: Virginia Beach, VA
Getting physically fit was a goal that seemed out of my reach. When I met with Jim White for the first time in November 2006; I was overweight, lacking energy, and sure that a workout in a gym was not something I could master. Jim White and his staff helped me make some different food choices and motivated me to try new exercises everyday.

New physical challenges no longer intimidate me…they inspire me. I have lost 20 pounds, gone down 3 pant sizes, 2 dress sizes and lowered my blood pressure. I highly recommend strength training and working with someone as knowledgeable as the staff at JWFNS. No matter your age, level of coordination, athleticism, or lack of confidence, strength training should be a part of your life!

Gloria : Virginia Beach, VA
Through my training with Jim, I lost several inches and over 30 lbs. I told one of my friends about Jim and she joined us. She also lost a significant amount of weight. We encourage each other, laugh often, and sometimes complain about the training, however, we know our health will benefit from the challenges Jim gives us! Jim is such a positive force and keeps the sessions so varied, that the workout goes quickly.

I now have so much more energy because Jim teaches me how to put in practice good eating habits, along with the weight training and exercise! Jim helped me kick my addiction to cola also—water is delicious! Jim White Fitness has shown me how to live a healthy lifestyle. Thank you, Jim!