Movin’ the Charts – Danny Smith: “Surprise, Food Does Matter”

Today, we talk with member Danny Smith about his experience with an individual P360 nutrition coach. Danny started with us as a leaner physique without much fat to lose and over the course of the first month, Danny is down 1.6% body fat, up three pounds of muscle, and down two and a half pounds of fat.

He shares a little bit about what’s working for him.

Physically, I have noticed improved body composition (see above). There is more definition in my arms, legs, and core. This is supported by my in-body scans where my % body fat has been trending down while my skeletal muscle mass has been trending up. Additionally, I have noticed improved performance in the gym. In the last month, I have PR’d my split jerk, 2-rep front squat, and snatch.

2. What improvements have you seen mentally? Do you find food to be less confusing or frustrating?
Mentally, I have found home prepared meals to be less intimidating. Before one-on-one coaching, I would cook home meals; however, they would be the same 3 dishes recycled week after week. I was not willing to explore different recipes, produce, or proteins. Coach Ashley helped me realize that healthy cooking does not have to be complicated or take up all my time. Healthy cooking can be as simple as a sheet tray of colorful veggies, and it can still turn out delicious.

3. How has your daily life improved with your nutritional improvements?
The most notable improvement I have seen has been with work recovery. I am a night-shift emergency department RN, and the work hours are long and often not consistent. Before working with Coach Ashey, I had a lot of trouble on my days off– no matter how many hours of sleep I would get, I would still feel exhausted. With more awareness of my micronutrient intake, I have noticed improved energy levels after a string of night shifts. I am now able to wake up refreshed and ready to actually enjoy my days off.

One-on-one coaching has been great in addressing my more personal nutrition issues. Especially after quarantine, I developed unhealthy eating behaviors that made me feel either complete indifference with nutrition or guilt and loss of control. Coach Ashely has provided a non-judgemental perspective to understand these feelings. Additionally, she equipped me with nutrition tools to correct my eating behaviors and develop a more healthy relationship with food.

The biggest thing I have learned is that food is so central to wellbeing. Food drives work performance, recovery, sleep, stress management… even your ability to develop meaningful relationships with others. I would often think “whatever, it’s one bad meal.. I’m only 26 and it probably won’t matter.” Surprise, food does matter and my wellbeing was taking the hit. With healthier eating habits, I feel better– not just physically but mentally, emotionally, and socially.

Thank you for sharing, Danny.

Interested in nutrition coaching? Go here.

-Dave