“What If I Lost 50 Pounds This Year?”

How Morgan and her Big Sky coach turned one bold question into a 51-pound transformation.

At Big Sky, we love seeing what can happen when the right support and the right plan come together. Morgan joined Big Sky a few years ago looking for a gym that felt welcoming but still offered plenty of ways to train, and she found exactly that.

What she didn’t expect was how much one decision would change everything. After taking advantage of the complimentary personal training sessions that come with a membership, Morgan connected with trainer Ryan B., and the two began working together on a plan to build strength, confidence, and consistency.

Fast forward a few years, and that first session has turned into an incredible journey – one that includes major weight loss, improved health, and a whole new outlook on what’s possible. Morgan’s story is a powerful reminder that sometimes having the right coach and the right community can make all the difference.

Three and a half years ago I joined Big Sky after moving to the area. I researched gyms and decided that the Simsbury location would give me that “small gym, but big options” feel I was looking for.

When I signed up, I was offered two free personal training sessions. I didn’t think much of it but decided to give it a go… maybe I could learn something. I was matched up with Ryan B., and later that day we scheduled our first session.  Needless to say, my first session proved I had NO CLUE what I was doing! My form was horrible, and the things I thought I was working out I wasn’t. But never in that first session did I feel judged, never did I feel intimidated, nor did I feel lost. I was never uncomfortable or nervous. Ryan was patient, understanding and thorough. He took the time to explain the “whys”, corrected my form with respect and showed me tips and tricks that would only improve my work outs. I decided at that moment working with Ryan would substantially help me reach my goals. 

During the 3 years I worked with Ryan I had a few injuries, and never once did he let me slip back into old habits. He always checked in or made modifications for me.

In January 2025 Ryan proposed a “challenge”. Although when I was working out with him I got stronger and maintained my weight, eventually I decided it was time to turn it up a notch. Jokingly I said to him, “What if I lost 50lbs this year?” Without hesitation he said, “Heck yeah, let’s do it”. So we turned it up! We discussed protein intake, cardio and more weight training. We did monthly check-ins and discussed what I needed to work on. No matter how silly my question was, Ryan answered it. At no point did he ever make me feel lost. His professionalism shows in his work. 

As of December 30, 2025, I am officially down 51 pounds, nearly 140 pounds from my highest weight. I was able to come off 1/2 of my medications including my insulin. Losing the last 51 pounds was sheer grit, hard work and dedication… but mostly it was Ryan. Ryan never let me give up on myself. Even when I wanted to give up, he reminded me of my “why”.

Personal training always looked like a luxury to me, but I’ve found that it’s a necessity. It’s something I know I cannot be without. No matter what’s going on in my life, coming here, the camaraderie with the people in my training sessions, and Ryan always pushing me, is something I look forward to 3 times a week. Training at Big Sky holds me accountable. 

If you’re looking to meet or exceed your goals in 2026, I highly recommend that you check out the personal training at Big Sky and, if you’re lucky enough, you can work out with Ryan.

Thank you may never seem like enough. As someone who works from home, the gym has been my saving grace. Ryan and his dedication to his craft amazes me and has been the reason I’ve reached my goals. Cheers to 2026, we’re already working on what goals we can smash this coming year!

Morgan’s results didn’t come from a quick fix – they came from consistency, support, and having a coach who believed in her every step of the way. At Big Sky, personal training is designed to meet you where you are and help you move toward where you want to be. If Morgan’s story inspires you, consider starting with the same first step she did: a simple training session and a coach ready to help you succeed.