David Shilling
When did you join Farrell's and what was your motivation for doing so?
I joined Farrell's in January of 2017 and completed my 10-Week Challenge in March of 2017. My wife had completed her 10-Week Challenge in the Fall of 2016, and she had solid results. At the same time, I was at the highest weight and in the worst shape of my life. My wife has a career and she manages our household, so there was really no excuse for me. Once a proud Marine Infantryman, I was embarrassed by how unfit I had become.
I too had a career and spent most of my days at a desk chasing it with great success. However, I just felt drained and tired and really... just unhappy. My attitude was terrible and I lacked the energy to be the best me for my family. I knew I had to do something, but pride was getting in the way. Suffice it to say, putting that pride aside and joining before I could make an excuse has turned into one of the best decisions I've ever made!
When did you start teaching classes and what motivated you to do so?
I was approached at my 5-Week testing of my 10-Week Challenge and asked if I might be interested in learning to teach classes after I have completed the challenge. I just loved the program and the people... THE PEOPLE... were just awesome! I worked extremely hard and showed up every day. I guess those two things might have tipped off our leadership and gave the impression that I was a solid candidate to be an instructor. It might have helped that in our previous conversations we discussed my experience leading Marines and being a leader in my career with experience motivating and challenging others. What motivated me to take the opportunity is that I wanted to give back. My instructors motivated, encouraged and inspired me to work harder than I had since my time in the Corps and I wanted to do that for others. There is great joy in helping others achieve what they themselves did not think they could achieve!
How do you connect with members of the class and how do you motivate, encourage and inspire them to reach their personal best in every class?
I enjoy conversing with members prior to class starting and welcome them. I think it's important to try to gauge everyone's mindset ahead of class and it helps to understand who has had a bad day and who has had a good day, and what I can do to help reverse and/or improve the experience. I like to look members in the eye to gauge where they are at mentally and challenge them to focus and dig deep... to push themselves... to make every punch, kick, and repetition worthwhile. I firmly believe that every single person on the mat has what it takes to reach their potential even if they don't see it within themselves.
What music do you prefer to work out to and/or play while you are teaching class?
I like all genres of music, so I often like to mix up my playlists with rock and roll, grunge, hip hop, old school rap, heavy metal, 80's hits, etc. I like to mix it up so that each person has the opportunity to hear a song that's in their wheelhouse and will motivate them during their workout.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering making a lifestyle change with Farrell's?
If you are already considering, then you've already made a decision that you need to make a change. One thing is certain: If you don't change, you won't change. Just enroll and put yourself in motion. The first 2-3 weeks will be difficult simply because your body is getting used to moving again. After that... It just. Gets. Better! Don't give yourself an opportunity to invent an excuse. Just do it. You will be glad you did, and so will the people around you. The best thing you can do for the people you love and care about the most is to be the best version of you that you can be. It's safe, sustainable, manageable, and the Farrell's community is like none other!
I hope to see you in one of my classes!
What is your philosophy as a franchise owner of a Farrell's Extreme Bodyshaping studio?
The culture that we have built and strive to maintain is one where, "We Rise by Lifting Others." We encourage, motivate and inspire each and every person to embrace and face adversity, but also to appreciate what doing so teaches us. Adversity makes us stronger physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Our instructors, coaches and members have embraced this philosophy and we seek to be a well that anyone can drink from and come away feeling accomplished. We humbly encourage you to take advantage of the opportunity to be a part of our FXB family and experience a community you will not find anywhere else!