Meet Steven Bryant of Body By Stevo Fitness in Oak Park

Today we’d like to introduce you to Steven Bryant.

Steven, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
The most valuable lesson I’ve learned from life’s journey is with a determined mindset, you can go to heights unseen. I walked into the doctor’s office with a smile on my face and walked out in tears. I was informed that not only was I morbidly obese, but I was subject to high blood pressure, pre – diabetic, and high cholesterol. I’d been an asthmatic all my life and I couldn’t bear any additional medication. I promised myself and the doctor that I would lose enough weight to ensure that no medication was needed. I ended up losing 100 lbs., with 50 lbs. coming off within the first 2 months. At that point, I understood the importance of health and wellness. Although proper nutrition and a solid exercise program is key, it’s not the only aspect of health as a whole. Mental health and emotional health is just as important. What we think and feel manifest into actions. Think healthy!

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It definitely has not been easy, but I think that’s what makes it a beautiful journey. We battle that inner voice that screams, “You can’t do it” whenever you have the urge to spread your wings and excel. At some point, most of us have dealt with that feeling of not being good enough. Life can be hard, and it can cause us to question if we’re headed in the right direction, but I understand now that it’s how you see yourself. What do you think of YOU? There’s power hidden in your struggle. The strength you receive from accomplishing a goal, or completing a task, is what fuels my motivation. Everything starts with a thought, and my goal is to mentally strengthen the people I’m able to reach. Once you believe that you will succeed, then you will. Keep the faith and increase your grind!

Please tell us about Body By Stevo Fitness.
I’m the CEO of “Body By Stevo Fitness”! I’m a certified fitness instructor/personal trainer, nutritionist, mentor, motivational speaker, and an aspiring author! My purpose is to create an environment that’s conducive to the client’s physical and mental growth. I’m most known for teaching my clients how to change their approach to fitness to ensure success through speaking positive affirmations. The mind, and how we think ultimately controls our actions. Instead of saying, “I can’t do 10 reps”, replace that with “I can do 5 reps”. The body does what the mind delegates. We must be accountable for the body we want. I love when the progression of the client is noticeable. I’m excited by the 80 lb. weight loss success stories, but I’m just as excited when someone loses 5 lbs. The mental shift of the person is most rewarding. The genuine concern and care I show to each individual is what sets me apart. Whether it’s asking someone how their day went, or what they had to eat for lunch, I always think to myself that I would want someone to treat me as if I was more than a client, or customer. It makes people feel comfortable. The gym can be a very intimidating place, and the last thing I’d want is for someone to feel “out of place”. We’re all one! We’re all trying to focus on our well – being, so our energy must be reciprocated throughout the environment!

If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
Nothing! All events, obstacles, situations, hang-ups, doubts, wins, losses, all contributed to the success I have now. Everything I’ve learned has lead me up to this point. I’m grateful that I was able to take what I’ve gone through and use it for the greater good.

Pricing:

• $10 Saturday Bootcamp classes

Contact Info:

• Address: 506 S. Wesley, Oak Park IL, 60304
  Over The Edge Fitness
• Phone: 7086135393
• Email: bodybystevo@gmail.com
• Instagram: bodybystevo
• Facebook: Steven Bryant

Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.