I started competing in Figure in May 2011 and had a typically horrible prep - weeks on end of fish and cucumber, morning and evening cardio, and to that end, near starvation, deprivation and exhaustion, not to mention water loading, then dehydration and all the other parts of dreaded contest prep that we all hear about as "the norm".

As a complete novice and total newby to the sport I adhered completely to everything I was told to do, but my intuition told me that this was not the right thing for my body - I knew there had to be a better way....and so after much research I stumbled across Erik Ledin on Siouxcountry forums - he was giving advice to figure competitors about diet and training and I found it so compelling I read something like 43 pages in one go.

Erik's no nonsense, straight down the line approach made so much sense to me and the comments from girls that he was training told me i just had to be coached by Erik if I were to continue competing in a healthy, sustainable, sane way.

I jumped on the waiting list and I think I was on the list for quite a few months before I got the email ... I got the email!!

I was so excited because it meant that as I was about 11 weeks out from contests I wanted to do in March 2012 there was just enough time to prep... and so I started with LBC!

I'm sure Erik was a little frustrated with me at first as I questioned the amount of food and lack of cardio....it seemed an absolute 180 degree turn from what I had done in the past and with a relatively short time to prep I was worried - I mean it felt like I was eating alot of food (and great tasting food at that - amazing PWO meals with no sense of deprivation) and I just wasn't sure that my body was going to respond. But respond it did! The weeks passed and my body changed seemingly before my eyes - I can actually and truthfully say that I really enjoyed my comp prep so much that it felt like I could keep going on it indefinitely

Needless to say I had two competitions planned 2 weeks apart and felt amazing going into both of them...I fulfilled 2 of my goals and placed first in both comps and without having to endure any of the voodoo and crazy stuff that is rampant in figure circles.

The support of Erik and all the members of the LBC forums and Facebook sites is amazing, motivating and just awesome - there is so much goodwill and encouragement you can't help but be buoyed by it - I am in pretty constant contact with so many inspiring, uplifting and just downright helpful people.

I can honestly say that Erik has changed my life - he has taught me that there is a way to participate and do well in this sport without having to risk metabolic damage and long term health repercussions - and my family and I can't thank him enough. His support and encouragement and honest approach are exactly what I need and I am excited to embark on the next leg of my journey with him and am ready to smash my next goals out of the park.

 - Lisa Marshall, Sydney, Australia

I started working with Erik Ledin a little over a year ago. At the time, my intentions were to give it a shot for the minimum of three months. I had heard good things about Erik through a few friends and on Facebook. I was a little skeptical at first and wasn't really sure how I would succeed doing an online program.

I gave it a try. At first, I questioned everything that Erik did. Why would I trust this guy right away when every other program I had tried hadn't worked!? I learned quickly that Erik doesn't sugarcoat ... ANYTHING. He quickly made me realize that as my coach, not my teacher I had a choice. I could either follow the program he provided for me and see results, or find someone else to work with. Wisely, I chose to follow the program and once I did, my body began to transform.

After just a couple weeks on his program I began seeing results. I decided for me this was going to be more than a three-month adventure, I wanted more! He writes many times, "You can't out train a bad diet." I had a hard time with this but quickly began to believe it, because it is true. I never did the training portion with Erik, only nutrition. During my 13 month time with him I lost over 15 inches and 10 lbs - recomp! More importantly, I learned HOW to eat to maintain my weight. I learned that the scale doesn't mean crap, but how your clothes fit and the way you look in the mirror tell a whole different story!

I have never been happier or felt better about my body in my entire life. I learned that you don't have to spend endless hours running and doing cardio to become lean. You learn to feed your body correctly and it will transform. Erik thank you for all you have done for me!!!

- Heather Viano, West Jordan, UT

I applied to work with Erik after a friend had hired him ‘after’ competing. She was tired of rebounding and wanted a different approach to maintenance. After three attempts at the questionnaire he accepted me and I was on my way to training for my 5^th show. It would be one of the largest competitions in the Rocky Mountain region.

Let’s start with me admitting that I am a HUGE control freak. Although, I was psyched to start the program with Erik I was skeptical given his no-cardio approach to contest preparation. It was early on in my communication that he shared with me that being a control freak and having a coach are contradictory. I think you all know how that conversation went! I had two different coaches with similar approaches. I was ready for a change and I had to let go of the reigns and trust in him - which I finally did!

Erik’s approach to getting on stage was somewhat familiar and yet so different. I’ll start with the nutrition approach. The idea that I can enjoy a white potato (which I honestly had not had in 3 years) was striking. Getting to enjoy fats (including: avocados, peanut butter, almonds and pecans) every day was heaven - oh and yogurt at the end of the day just gave me all of the motivation I needed to push through each day. Breakfast has always been my favorite, but meal 6 became a close second!! The hunger was there, as he reminded me it would be, but it was limited and not debilitating. I did not feel deprived at all.

Regarding training: I had never been one for long rests. I have always loved lifting weights and taking up to 120 seconds between sets was difficult for me to get used to. However, I found that I was able to recover and lift the same amount of weight without having to drop weight to complete my workouts. The idea of not having to spend 60+ minutes on the step mill was amazing and when I saw my body start to change without step after step it was incredible.

A couple of striking conversations we had was when I asked Erik if I could compete in the October show vs. the November show (we have 2 large shows within 3 weeks of one another in Denver). I shared with Erik that I was at the same weight I had been for my previous shows. He said, “It is not about a number, it’s about a look and you’re not there.” He can be pretty blunt and that was tough to hear. My body had responded so quickly to his program that I thought I’d be ready. But, I pushed forward and put the November date in my head as the day I’d be competing.

During the final week of the show I was surprised each day with how much water (oh my, 10 liters is a lot of water!!) I’d have to drink and what I was ‘able’ to eat. It wasn’t asparagus and tilapia 5 meals a day! In the week leading up to my previous competitions I was exhausted and ready to get it over with and I think it showed in my stage presentations. I can honestly I was excited and felt completely ready to get on stage this time. I had so much more confidence and loved the way my body looked – and felt!

My confidence and preparation paid off. I took the stage and by the end of the day I took 1st in my age class, my open class, was awarded the Masters Overall Champion – AND named the 2011 NPC Met/RX NPC Figure Champion!!! It took a moment for me to realize they had called MY name!!

My experience with Erik and Lean Bodies Consulting has been nothing short of phenomenal. I look forward to competing at the national level in 2012 and who knows … maybe even putting a new goal of IFBB pro on the list too!

- Tiffany Karnig, Aurora, CO

I started working with Erik this year in mid to late August. I am a seasoned figure competitor having competed in 12 shows now. I have worked with various coaches in the industry within the last four years, but never having quite found the perfect one which I was looking for. See, I had done the no carbs and two hour per day cardio for 16 weeks, I had done all the water manipulation and all the sodium tracking, I have had some major rebounds post show, and I just wanted a more reasonable lifestyle approach to contest dieting along with a real and honest coach behind it all. I was looking for a coach that truly cared about their clients and provided feedback and non cookie cutter plans. I was looking for a coach that cared about my specific goals and who would have my best interest at heart.

I had first heard of Erik a long long time ago on the Oxygen forums, I was just getting into competing then, and didn’t really know much about hiring a coach etc. Then I became a member of Siouxcountry.com and started reading more about him there, and then a couple months before contacting him I had been following his face book page. I was learning more about his philosophies on show prep, and noticing that his clients do minimal cardio, no water manipulation and no sodium tracking and they all looked fantastic.

I knew this was not only the approach I needed to take my also knew deep down it had to be the healthiest and most realistic.

A few weeks after working with Erik, I had mentioned to him about doing a show, which was not of the original plan when I first started. I really wanted to see if this was indeed a good match for me and that I really didn’t have to take all those other unnecessary steps to become stage ready. Kinda like I didn’t believe it until I saw it work with me type of thing, lol. Well during the weeks leading up to the show I definitely was doing less cardio than I ever had, I felt awesome, I had a lot of energy each day and I was looking leaner and tighter each week. People ask me all the time how I can get so lean since they never see me doing cardio, and I would say Erik’s famous words “the tighter the diet, the tighter the body” The final week of the show when most coaches had me water load and water deplete and sodium load and sodium deplete, Erik kept all that constant, nothing changed at all. I trusted him that I would look my best on that stage with no need of any drastic measures to be taken. I had daily contact with Erik the final week leading into the show, he wanted to know how I looked and felt each day as well as see pictures almost daily. This was impressive to me as no other I had worked with provided this service, and it really helped my mental state and put my mind at ease.

I walked into the show looking and feeling the best I ever had. I was nicely conditioned and had full round muscle bellies. I had a problem of always coming in too flat, but this wasn’t the case this time around. I finished in 2nd place, but I knew I had found my match and a winning formula without damaging my body, and better yet I had a mind set shift. In all of my other preps I would always find myself dreaming about food day and night and buying crap that I wouldn’t ever normally eat to have post show. This time was different, I didn’t want to fall into that again and I learned that if I changed the way I look at food then it would indeed change my behavior and relationship I had towards it. I am now a couple weeks post contest and while I have had a few indulgences, it hasn’t even come close to what I would have done in my past. I am now a true believer in Erik and LBC. I am very grateful to be able to work with him, and look forward to a very successful 2012! Thank you for everything Erik!

- National-Level Figure Competitor, Shianne Behan, Manteca, CA

When I first started working with Erik I was prepping for my second national show. The first show’s prep was a learning experience, I was a typical 22 year old girl, eating and drinking whatever I wanted, only “exercising” maybe twice a week. I was uneducated and inexperienced about food, exercise and my body. 

For my first show I paid a hefty price for a well known trainer, for an 8 week cookie cutter diet and workout plan, which I didn’t hardly follow, but with enough cardio and carb cuts I was able to pull off a pretty good body and win the overall Bikini title. But I was miserable, and tired, and a bi***. The whole prep I was OBSESSED with what I couldn’t eat, and what I wanted to eat as soon as I was done. I cheated on my diet almost daily. When the show was over... well, I ate myself sick, and gained 10 lbs within a week of my competition. It was bad. 

When I prepped for my second show, the NPC USA’s pro qualifier, I had my boyfriend prep me. He is a bodybuilder himself and has contest prep experience. I know he had my best interest in mind when he was writing my program, but he only knew one way of prepping someone, the bodybuilder way. So my program was full of food, and full of cardio. My weight training program was looong... and some days I was at the gym for 2 1/2 hours lifting and doing cardio. Plus an hour of AM cardio on an empty stomach everyday. I was even more miserable, even more tired and an even bigger bi***!! He also had me on a long list of supplements. I was taking almost 20 pills a day. Pills for fat loss, pills to expel water, pills for digestion, pills for muscle recovery, muscle building, muscle enhancements. I know it wasn’t because he was trying to make money selling them either because he wasn’t making any money off them or me. He had me taking what he read, and researched other bikini competitors taking. He was telling me to do what even some of the big Pros were doing. Just as so many other trainers believe, he thought it was the only way of reaching a competition goal. He really believed everything I did and took was beneficial to me and my prep. And truth be told I did amazing I placed 2nd at my first national show, and only my second show ever. It was amazing, but once again after my show I lost control and ate myself sick before I even made it home from Vegas. it was bad.

Before I began prepping for my third show my boss had been urging me to contact LBC, she had been using him and couldn’t say enough good things about his programs. So I finally sent Erik an email, with no real intention of using him, I just wanted to see what he had to say and maybe get an idea of pricing. Well in the mean time of Erik getting back to me I began to really look over his site and actually read his articles and blogs... Wow, I knew I wanted to work with him. 

It was hard at first to give over control completely, I was unsure this new program of NO cardio would work, I must have emailed Erik 5 times within the first 2 weeks asking when cardio would be put in my program. The beginning of my program was muscle building, so he continually reminded me that there would be no cardio while I was building. Holy metabolic shoulders!! I couldn’t believe the size I was putting on in such a short time, and I was still leaning out, still feeling good, still eating a lot of food. My workouts were shorter, but tougher. It was exercises I had never seen or heard of but I loved it, they were fresh and dare I say, FUN! The results were more than enough for me to no longer ask questions of Erik, there was no way I was going to question his program with how amazing I was looking, but more importantly, how amazing I was feeling. I wasn’t tired, I wasn’t miserable and I wasn’t a raging bi***. Truth be told I was the most energized I had been in a while, while prepping at least. Then, with 3 weeks till show time Erik changed it all up. I went from building to leaning out. He added two short cardio sessions twice a week. 3 weeks out and I was just starting my cardio, lets just say other woman who were prepping for the same show were shocked!! They even began questioning their own trainers, who were having them do cardio twice a day. But three short weeks was all I needed. I didn’t think it was possible, but I leaned out even more and still held all my muscle. The best part, I wasn’t even fantasizing about food I couldn’t eat. In fact I was the most disciplined I had ever been while prepping. With such amazing results there was no way I was going to screw it up, especially not for a few bites of anything. I went into my show feeling on top of the world, I was the best I had ever looked and felt. I was confident and regardless of how the show went, I was satisfied with where I had taken my body. 

The best part though, I am now 3 weeks post show and even tho I did indulge a bit after my show, I am still within 3 lbs of where I was when I stepped on stage. I still feel and look great and am actually looking forward to my off season instead of dreading the weight I normally gain post show. I now have control over what I eat and it feels amazing!! I now know so much more about portion control, and am so aware of what I eat. It feels good to be in control of my body and mouth. Dieting and contest prep, even everyday eating, will never be the same for me. I will never train with anyone but LBC. Thanks Erik.

- National-Level Bikini Competitor, Amy Rose, Parker, CO

I used Erik for my 2011 NPC Texas State Naturals contest prep and couldn't be happier. Since starting with him in mid May, I lost 20+ pounds and placed 5th in my hight class.  An accomplishment in itself, I am beyond excited to report a week post show I have had no rebound and even had Thanksgiving feasts, yes that is plural, in my "off week."  Erik has a no-nonsense approach to dieting and builds workouts and nutrition plans tailored to you.  He tells you what you need to know and more specifically what to do to reach you goals and then hands the tools to you.  What you do with those tools is entirely up to you.

During my show, all the girls spoke about their insane prep (yes, even in bikini) and most of all how they couldn't wait to binge on burgers, cake and ice cream.  I couldn't help but laugh when I told them I could have "cake and ice cream" for every PWO if I wanted.  

In the past I have always failed at dieting.  I would stay on plan (low carb, stupid low calories) for maybe a week or 2 and binge and restart.  It was a never ending cycle.  At one point, I remember thinking to myself, this is as good as I will ever look.  I will never be shredded, I will never be cut and that is that.  I have to appreciate what I do have a move on.  Since discovering LBC, I can say that was rubbish.  You can in fact improve what you have and do it without sub 1000k calories and daily double cardio sessions.  Thanks to Erik, I have learned the err in my old methods, methods that are all too common in the fitness industry.  His tell-it-like-it-is training and no-nonsense approach to dieting was exactly what I needed to focus on compliance.  Erik knows his stuff, and will help guide you to your ideal figure whatever that may be.  His wait list was one of the hardest things to be on, but also once my email came I was beyond elated - well worth the wait!  I can honestly say I have never seen better results on me, not to mention many of his other clients.  Seven months later, I will be starting a building plan with Erik and am sure I will see the same success.  I hope you take advantage of his knowledge and his online community of LBCers, you won't find anything else like it.

Erik, I am incredibly thankful for the knowledge you have given me and am so grateful for this eye opening contest prep. If there is anything else you would like me to elaborate on for future clients, please feel free to let me know.  I would love to assist you with LBC in anyway possible.

- Sarah Huggins, Ft Worth, TX

My journey started with late night Facebooking, when I came across the LBC page, and I haven’t looked back since. Most of what I know about “conventional” contest prep and nutrition was challenged by the “LBC Way”. After reading article after article on the LBC blog, I started thinking that this Erik guy was onto something. Weeks of research, months on the waiting list and I was in!

Let me back up. I am a fitness enthusiast and have always wanted to compete in a fitness competition. Three years ago I started training for my first show. The training consisted of 10 different foods and hours upon hours of training. As a graduate student it was difficult to keep up with the 1.5 hours of cardio and hour weight training session 6 times per week. I was exhausted. When my “legs were not coming in”, even more cardio was added and my peanut butter was taken away. I gave up on my dream as the results of my hard work weren’t evident and the thought of further diet restriction was unbearable. There was no sign of a competition in my future.

May 2011, I contacted Erik and was put on the waiting list. For the next 3 months I stalked the LBC Facebook page and blog, soaking up all the information I could, to apply it to my current regimen. The first thing I did every morning was check my email in hopes of finding my program waiting for me. One late July evening I decided to check my email one last time before going to bed and there it was, my program! Now the real work began. I don’t mean stupid amounts of cardio and numerous food restrictions. I mean heart pounding, lungs burning, sweat-pouring weight training and a balanced, portion controlled meal plan. Every week I prepped and portioned my meals to keep me on plan. Day in and day out I hit the gym hard, no excuses. There were many nights after a 12-hour work shift at the urgent care that I wanted to go home and hit the hay, but I dragged myself to the gym, knowing that I could suffer the pain of discipline or the pain of regret. Erik’s plan is clear cut with all the resources to succeed.

The diet did not feel like a diet. Each and every day I had some form of carbohydrate perfectly timed around my workouts. My post workout meal of choice was a McDonald’s ice cream cone. Yep, you read that right, ice cream! You should have seen some of the looks I got from people when they hear that ice cream is actually a part of my plan. Sort of a silly example but I think it kept me sane. The meal plan incorporated the foods I love; no tilapia or asparagus for me!

Training days were intense. Every week I was amazed at the weight I was pushing, and I kept meeting new PR’s almost weekly. Over time I continued to lift heavy and as I began leaning out my shoulder and back had definition like never before. The first thing people asked when they started noticing my body changing was, “How much cardio are you doing?”. My reply, “1 hour per week”. “You mean 1 hour a day?”. I respond with, “Nope. You head it right the first time”. These days I couldn’t imagine the insanity of 3 rounds of cardio a day. Luckily, I never have to again.

12 weeks after starting with LBC I stepped on stage and competed in my first NPC bikini show. The night before the show I watched and heard some of the contest prep nightmare stories. Honestly, it shocked me to hear what these girls were willing to put their bodies through for a five dollar trophy. The madness I speak of includes, but is not limited to: Two hours of cardio a day, tilapia and asparagus 6 times per day for weeks and extreme dehydration, except to take their diuretic pills. Meanwhile, their hair is falling out and they require more and more cardio to get less results; clear cut signs of metabolic damage. The day of the show I was the leanest and strongest I have ever been and I walked on stage with energy and excitement. At the end of the day, I was so excited and proud that I finally did it, but most importantly, that I did it the healthy way. It wasn’t easy but it was worth it!

My sincere thanks to Erik for his educated and reasonable approach to contest prep. Thank you for teaching me “mirrors not scales”. Thank you for teaching me that this is not about another contest to prep for, but a way of life. Thank you for being reliable.

Erik, you are one of a kind.

- Megan Hoover, Gilbert AZ

I have been following Erik's methods and articles through LBC for about a year now.  When I stumbled upon the LBC page, I was instantly hooked.  Being a certified Personal Trainer and CSCS myself, I KNEW without a shadow of a doubt that Erik knew what he was talking about and went above and beyond your average so-called "coach" in order to ensure that his clients would reach their goals in the healthiest way possible.  This, to me, was revolutionary, as finding someone like Erik who practically applies smart science to each individual seems nearly impossible to find. 

I found Erik and LBC while researching for a BETTER way to do contest prep for myself.  I knew that I wanted to continue to compete, but just couldn't accept that the only way to reach "competition shape" was through the all-too-familiar 5-food diet and double cardio sessions daily.  My first competition was just that: a 5-food cookie-cutter diet, 2 plus hours of cardio per day, no nutrient timing around workouts, and compete carb, water and sodium depletion toward the end.  Although my coach at the time is still a dear friend and someone I have a great amount of respect for, I knew that the rebound I experienced after the show would prevent me from ever wanting doing another one.  I was down-right miserable as I gained 20+ pounds, didn't even want to LOOK at weights or the stair-climber, and didn't care about nutrition anymore.  After a few months of feeling this way, I slowly gained balance back into my life and made the decision to only do another competition if I could figure out a healthier way of doing it.  I used much of the information and research that is openly shared through Erik's websites to help me through my next 2 shows, in which I felt better, looked better and performed better.  I placed 1st overall, which qualified me for Nationals and proceeded to place 3rd in my class at the Jr. USA's.

I was finally able to actually work with Erik as my coach starting in September of 2011.  I decided it was time for his expertise and help as I embarked on a journey to my next competition (NPC Nationals).  I wanted the full-blown LBC contest prep - and did I sure get it!  Erik gave me a plan that was very focused for contest prep, yet gave me a great amount of variety in food choices and never included carb, sodium or water depletion.  The best part was that I looked better, felt better and actually got STRONGER in the gym, despite a lower calorie intake.  As the weeks went by, I was more and more amazed at the results I was seeing.  I was floored as I was lifting heavier and performing better in the gym the closer the show was.  This was usually the opposite in former contest preps.  I felt amazing as I got leaner, tighter and felt better than ever.  The best part was that I was lifting 4 days a week and doing 2 cardio sessions per week (only because I had to teach 2 spin classes for my job).  Another huge milestone for me with Erik's training was that my relationship with food while in contest prep made a 180 degree turn around.  (A true personal victory.) Normally during past contest preps, I would be thinking about food constantly, idolizing it and desiring to eat unhealthy foods 24/7.  Not with Erik.  I was loving the food he allowed me to eat and rarely thought about food in that way.  I was getting the proper amount of nutrients to keep me from craving junk and was given the variety that I needed in order to keep me satisfied.  I found that the more consistently compliant I was to his food plan, the easier it was to stay 100% on track.  I desired good, whole foods and didn't have those intense cravings anymore.  I can honestly say that I ENJOYED this prep so much!  How many competitors do we know that can honestly say they ENJOY the prep?  I'm sure they enjoy the outcome and the competition.  But the prep.... is so hard to ENJOY when you are doing 2 cardio sessions a day and eating only 5 foods, feeling low on energy, fuzzy, moody and hungry all the time.... AND have major rebounds after every show.

I can honestly say that training with Erik has been a milestone in my competing journey and even in my own personal accomplishments.  Erik is a gifted, caring and realistic coach that will help you reach your goals in a profound, scientifically sound way.  Training with Erik has been an incredible learning experience for me, as Erik has facilitated me toward more positive, healthy ways of thinking and living through this whole process.  If you are thinking about working with him, you will not regret the decision to do so.  It could very well be the BEST choice you could ever make for your health and fitness goals.  I know it was for mine! Thank you, Erik, for teaching me that there IS A BETTER WAY!

- National-Level Figure Competitor, Sarah Venturini, Jacksonville, FL

What can I say about my experience with LBC that I haven’t already proudly boasted about? More importantly, what can I say to reach out to other competitors who are still trapped using old school unhealthy methods for contest prep? I am just overwhelmed with such positive feelings and personal experience with LBC, that I hardly know where to begin. So, perhaps I shall start with the beginning.

Rewind about 15 years. I was an overweight child. I struggled with body image, self-love, and confidence. I spent many years of my life falling into the gimmicks and one-size-fits-all programs, resulting in endless yo-yo dieting, and a very unhealthy relationship with food.

Fast-forward to Feb 2009 when I reached a breaking point of being uncomfortable in my own skin. I decided to compete in my first Figure competition as a goal to finally achieve the body of my dreams. I hired a personal trainer and for 12 weeks I did 2 hours of cardio a day, weight trained for at least an hour 5 days a week, and ate only the same 6 foods EVERY DAY. That is what I was told it would take. This is what I spent money to learn. I was ‘educated’ that this was the only way to successfully prep for a competition. Well, it did ‘work’. Or rather, I did lose weight. I competed. And then I gained 25 lbs back within a month. I thought it was my fault. I thought I had to somehow be stricter; somehow work harder.

So I competed again. A 16 week prep this time. Same song and dance as before. And I won. And I tried harder post show to eat clean and train hard. And I gained every bit of weight back yet again. I repeated this cycle once more. This time hiring another coach – a big name coach with lots of experience – in hopes of finally getting the formula right. And those hopes were crushed when I experienced the quickest, heaviest rebound post show to date.

After wielding such power over your body to only, despite all efforts, lose every bit of control… it is a very disheartening feeling. I spiraled down into an admittedly deep, dark place. I lost a lot of hope and a lot of faith in myself. I let go of all clean eating and didn’t step foot in the gym for months. Although it is a time that I am not very comfortable talking about, I also realize that sadly, this is something too many other women also experience.

Once I recognized that I wasn’t alone, and that I wasn’t at fault, I was on a mission to take charge again. But I needed help. I needed somebody who was going to pay attention to me and to my needs. Someone who was going to treat me like the completely unique individual that I am.

Insert Erik Ledin. (angels singing)

Wow. My journey with LBC has been unlike any other prep in the past. In fact, in all of my years of dieting, it has been unlike any other attempt to lose weight, period. Why? Because I wasn’t plugged into some program. I had a program designed around ME - Designed around my lifestyle habits, my career, and my food preferences. Not only that, but then it is readjusted based on how my body responds. A program that is FUN and full of variety. Yes, I had FUN dieting. I didn’t have to log endless hours of cardio. As a matter of fact, where I would have completed a combined total of 224 hours steady state cardio in a typical previous prep, with my program, I did only about 6. I was able to ENJOY the gym; not be a slave to it.

I was taught an approach that allowed me to LOVE my nutrition and LOVE to lift, which then resulted in a sense of peace and balance with the whole lifestyle. I gained such a healthy perspective and in turn, acquired a healthy relationship with food. Do you understand what great strides those are for me? 15 years of battling my emotions with food, and in 10 short weeks it was as if a veil was lifted from my eyes and a weight removed from my shoulders.

Just 10 short weeks, (that flew by incredibly fast because I was having so much fun rather than struggling survive through) and I stepped on stage feeling the happiest, healthiest, and most confident than I had ever felt before. And I was able to step off the stage with a peace of mind in knowing that I’m not going to rebound.

For me, as it is for many others, this was much more than just a physical transformation. It was like a Dieting Rehab Vacation – I was educated, I had fun, I made life-long friends, and my mental and emotional well-being were nursed back to health. An experience I will never forget and will always be grateful for.

- Missy Reid, Sycamore, IL

FLASHBACK to comp prep in the year 2010 (Before Erik):

Sobbing in my car, parked outside the gym for the third time that day, desperately trying to summon the energy to walk from my car to the gym door, knowing that if I could just get inside I could probably then force myself to at least start the RPM class and hopefully, hopefully, the music would drown out the sound of my legs screaming as they endured yet another torture session on zero energy. I might as well go in, because it had already cost me so much to get there: my broken heart as I pulled away from my beautiful six year old daughter who couldn’t understand that I had to leave her again and that I could still go the gym when I didn’t have the energy to play or even walk with her, my marriage in a shambles as I was constantly in hysterics from hunger, lack of confidence, lack of patience, lack of any time to do anything but food prep, train, work, sleep. People whispering behind my back that perhaps I was dying of cancer. My screwed up head that said if I went even one single gram over my starvation diet I would balloon up and be a failure for the rest of my life. Couldn’t sleep from hunger. Couldn’t think. Felt no joy.

Endured all the usual comp prep tortures, did the ‘only drink Evian water in the last week because it’s the only water with no sodium in it’, had only tiny serves of grilled chicken breast, some broccoli, some asparagus, was allowed a little basmati rice at breakfast, and for an extra special after dinner treat – a glass of mineral water! Still, I stuck to it 100%, which is, I suppose, an enormous achievement in itself! Comp day – I was marked down for being ‘too lean’. After comp – spent well over a month eating, eating, eating, out of control, huge depression, suicidal thoughts, desperation, put on over 8kg in a few weeks. My metabolism had taken probably the whole ten year gap I’d taken after my first competition period from 1998 – 2000 to actually get on track, and certainly mentally I hadn’t felt ready at all before that ten years had passed, and now it seemed I was right back at my worst, after just one more competition season.

COMP PREP 2011:

There’s no getting away from it – it was still incredibly hard, mentally, physically, emotionally. I’d read on forums about Erik’s girls having ice creams throughout their prep and not doing any cardio at all. It sounded easy, but it most certainly wasn’t, for me. There were days throughout when I still trained twice a day, I pushed myself incredibly hard in every workout, was often hungry, tired and sore. But the results came – I’d told Erik what I wanted to improve – he gave me specific workouts for me to achieve those aims. The diet was BY FAR healthier and better for me than any other comp diet I have done, seen or heard about. Comps over and I’m still pretty much eating the same kinds of things, which shows how it was tailored for me.

Erik’s seen me (or rather heard from me via email) at my worst. He didn’t give me sympathy, pats on the head or excuses (which is probably what I really wanted), he gave me the tools and framework to achieve the goals I’d been chasing for eleven years (what I needed). Despite the time difference (I’m in Australia) he always responded to my emails. He made it clear what he wanted from me and gave me the means to achieve it. He has more knowledge than anyone I’ve ever met, seen, heard or read about. He was always honest. I know he has been the difference between winning and losing. But more than that, he hasn’t stuffed me, my body or my metabolism up for years to come. I can’t believe the years and energy I’ve wasted time and time again, the frustration I’ve endured of putting all of myself into something and not getting results! DARNATION!!!!!!!!!!!!

Of enormous value also was the LBC Facebook page, and the accountability of the fortnightly measurements/reporting.

I personally can not thank Erik enough. His mantras, comments and the inspirational photos he puts up on Facebook, along with all the wonderfully positive comments from the LBC family on the Facebook page, ran and continue to run through my head at all kinds of times, and keep on helping me. I hope to keep going with this lifestyle for as long as I am possibly able!

- National-Level Figure Competitor, Bridget Freeman, Launceston  Tasmania, Australia

I do not know where to start; there is so much to include. So first let me say that there is not a single second that I do not thank my lucky stars, and my husband, that I contacted Erik Ledin two years ago (not because Erik lacks any quality whatsoever, but because I had, at that time, some undeserving weird loyalty to the bad guidance I was paying for). Perhaps it was a trick, a plan to run one’s body to the ground SO far that she becomes half retarded/delusional ... hmm? It took a few months and QUITE a few arguments with my husband to convince me to contact Erik, but here I am and I and sincerely cannot say enough. The truth is I had suffered significant metabolic damage. I wish, for my body and minds sake, I would have had the strength to contact him earlier on; hind sight is 20/20.

What led me here was simple: ignorantly dedicating myself to bad guidance. The problem was that I gave to-be-unnamed trainer full reigns, from workout to cardio and diet. One of THE most beautiful things about Erik is that he isn’t here to make you depend on him. He is here to help you learn. Teach you, help you understand your body, the process, etc. It absolutely cracks me up thinking back at how my diets (prior to contacting Erik and working with a trainer) were so TOP SECRET and coveted as if they had secret food measurements that were going to make us each earn our pro card when actually, the diets were exactly the same as the other competitors, even the bodybuilders. Weird, right? While Erik is actually so confident in his knowledge he announces his methods on public forum! Erik’s plans are simple, and he provides you with the tools and knowledge to make things work when life isn’t so simple. He gives you the truth, he gives you what works, and it's not a secret! It is your health; he wants you to thrive and grow, not forget how to function without his every direction.

I don't know if I can accurately illustrate the effect of which having Erik as a coach has made on my outlook, my balance and my overall psyche. It took time, (just as the dietary healing process took time with my body); it took falling down and getting back up again, and it took acceptance. Erik’s coaching has balanced me in ways he will not ever even know! Quite honestly I’m still growing and changing every day. Its amazing how much enriching life is when you can focus on more than the time your next meal and how in the hell you will find the energy to do your third cardio session today, and in order to do what, really? I have had several coaches in life and its incredible how much of an effect having Erik as ONLINE coach has really had on me.

LBC provides proper nutrition to allow the body to thrive; combined with the power of the mind (which he assisted in restoring) it creates the perfect environment for growth. The healing is beyond words, both physically and mentally to the point in which I am able to feel POWERFUL again in workouts. Erik’s methodical coaching helped me get back in touch with the prowess that built my love for the gym in the first place. The workout plans have introduced me to exercises and exercise methods which I have never employed , have led to great increases in lean body mass, brought up my weak areas, and developed my overall strength and power. Working with LBC has 100% brought me to the best shape and conditioning my physique have ever seen. Not only that but I can say with complete honesty that I have never come CLOSE to looking this good while feeling this great.

On a closing note, because I hold this healing so dear and have such compassion for those who might be reading, relating, unsure of what to do - competitors and ladies: if you are ready to finally recognize there is something wrong with the guidance you are getting, admit that it is not your fault, not your body’s fault, and quit the abusive relationship pattern of behavior you are spiraling into. Or, if you are ready to face the fact that continuing down your current path will lead you to marry only a treadmill, or if you simply want to restore the power in the gym you have lost that took you to competing in the first place, do not hesitate, seek a coach that is truly an advocate for your health and wellbeing; find someone who KNOWS how to help you and your body collaborate and work together effectively for multi-dimensional results NOW. Erik Ledin.

- National-Level Figure Competitor, Christian Stearns, Findlay, OH

I'm going to start from the beginning back in 2008. I was currently training for my second figure competition, 12-15 weeks out, and was miserable. I was doing 5-7 hours of cardio a week and I was eating all my calories from protein and greens ... besides 40g of oats in the AM. There was a client of Erik's I would always watch train; she was also prepping and was about 8-10 weeks out from the North Americans. I would watch her workouts thinking she looks like she's having fun and she truly doesn't look miserable. I would watch her do her workout then leave eating skittles and doing no cardio. Yes, I thought this was the craziest thing I had ever seen. Considering I would do my typical workout (isolated muscle groups) then jump on the stairmill at level 6 for 45 min. I was so jealous. But, being the stubborn ass I am, I would never have let her know so, instead, I would give her crap about it. Lol

Then as her contest got closer I started to realize this girl's coach is on to something. She was looking amazing. I mean really, and that's saying something cause I'm honest. She ended up placing top 5.

I was dating a jerk at the time who insisted I would fail unless I did it his way. So being a dumbass I stuck with him and let him do my diet for 2 more years.

In 2010 I started to prep for Jr. Nationals. I used a local "prep guy". His clients usually looked in shape up there and I happened to be friends with one of his clients who looked pretty good at her last show and placed well.

I decided to give it a shot with him for 16 weeks prior to Jr. Nationals. Let me just tell you after this prep I'm lucky I am even able to continue to compete at all. This guy only did my diet/cardio I did my own typical isolated muscle group type workout.

When I saw my diet for the first time I was surprised but I was motivated and ready to go for it and win Jr. Nationals (LOL). Well my diet was NO CARBS (super unique!!). None! Zilch! I did this diet for 16 weeks. He would give me every 3rd day with 3 servings of almonds with 3 different meals. I had no carbs for 16 weeks. Super low calorie, hours on end of cardio. It was awful. I literally developed an eye condition that was causing a layer of my eye to bleed and making it so I had a blind spot in my field of vision. This all started about 6 weeks out. I remember my mom actually crying and begging me to please eat a sweet potato!! I of course refused. I was checked for brain tumors and everything! Come to find out this condition was caused by malnutrition. I also had 2 root canals (one during and one a few weeks after). I ended up looking my worst ever at Jr. Nationals in 2010. Worst ever. I was sick my body was destroyed my metabolism was non existent and I was a mess.

I just wanted to get well so I asked around and was told again of Erik's name by a few people. So I decided to go for it. I told myself after Jr. Nationals I was going to do things 180 degrees different from last time and I knew Erik was the one to guide me. Although, it scared the crap out of me. I had prepped the same way for 3 years (the hamster way).

I told Erik (started with him in Jan 2011) that I was going to compete in May at Pittsburgh then do Jr. USAs. Plenty of time!! I get my diet and it is so much food and one "hill" workout for cardio. Erik told me if I was ready I could compete. I wasn't used to hearing that considering most so called coaches will say you'll be ready even if it means irreversible damage to your metabolism.

Every week I would consistently lose about 1lb. It wasn't the 2-3lbs a week I was used to but I felt so good mentally and physically. My measurements, howver, were pretty amazing. Every biweekly I was astonished by my progress. I knew by March I probably wouldn't be getting on stage till later in the season but I didn't care cause I knew this diet was easy. I wasn't miserable and struggling to be compliant. I wasn't spending 3 hours a day everyday in the gym.

I ended up getting on stage for the TN State show looking the best I ever had and winning my class. Then 3 weeks later I did North Americans looking even better than the State show winding up in the Top 6.

I am in debt to Erik. I truly believe he saved me from a short career. I am so thankful that I took the leap of faith and changed my ways of prep. Erik showed me what it is to live a lifestyle not just prep for a show. I feel like an athlete again. Going in to the TN State show I know I was in the best shape of my life, I mean conditioning-wise and cardiovascularly. This is even including my college soccer days at Ohio State.

I will never prep any other way. This is the only way that makes sense to me. Erik is the best Coach I have ever had and I have had many not just for prep but for soccer, as well. Erik changed my life. I am looking forward to many more years of having the best Coach in the biz. I am also so glad to be a part of the LBC family. I love my Team. Thank you, Erik for everything you have done for me.

- National-Level Figure Competitor, Jennica Kidd, Hendersonville, TN

I began my journey with Erik Ledin and Lean Bodies Consulting in early April of 2011 to begin my contest prep for the OPA Ontario Provincials. Prior to joining the LBC family, I took some time to research some of the best coaches out there. I was looking for someone who would not only help me reach my goals but also someone who would provide me with a learning opportunity. Somebody who really understood how the body works and who doesn’t follow the main stream ideas, trends, cookie cutter programs etc. It was extremely important to me that I worked with someone who would tell me what I needed to hear rather than feed me BS. After weeks of reviewing coaches, reading interviews, blogs, testimonials, and talking with Erik over numerous emails, I was reassured that becoming a client of Erik’s would be the right decision ... and it was.

When Erik and I started to work together, my goal was to prepare me for Provincials. This was my second show and I was nervous because I only had 3 months for contest prep and wasn’t sure if I would be ready in time. One of the many things that I learned from Erik early on was consistency. If I was consistent and compliant in my efforts then I would reap the rewards in the end. Now, don’t get me wrong, it was hard for me to give up all control in the beginning but I was quickly shown that Erik truly understood the body in all respects and was just as dedicated as I was for me to reach my goal.

I remember submitting my first bi-weekly and how excited I was because of the huge change I made so quickly! It was a great way to start off my progress. As the weeks went by, my results weren’t as noticeable (in my mind) and I started to feel a doubtful in reaching my goal but once again, Erik was there to teach me that progress in not linear and there would be weeks were I would just need to put my head down and grind it out; that the leaner I got the more difficult it would be to reach the desired look I was aiming for. 3 major key elements (although I have learned so many other things) that I learned in the process with Erik was that by being patient, consistent, and compliant as well as letting Erik do his job and tweak the program as needed and me executing it as intended, would be the formula for success.

After just 10 weeks of following that formula I couldn’t believe how much my body transformed. I was down roughly 17lbs and many inches. I could have not been any more confident stepping on that stage. All my hard work, sweat, and maybe a few frustrations that I laid out on the gym floor would be represented on stage! On show day, I felt amazing! Actually come to think of it, I felt amazing throughout my entire contest prep. High energy, positive,and was able to kill every workout even though I might have cursed my way through them lol. I remember walking around with a litre of water backstage and people were shocked to see me chugging it back. It was like I had a third eye or something. I had people that I competed with in my last show come up to me saying how they couldn't believe the transformation I had made since the last show. Honestly, I was so happy with what I had achieved that placing wasn't a concern of mine. I was there to enjoy the experience. If I was “too cut” for my division then so be it! I was so proud of myself and ecstatic with how Erik took my body to a whole new level! Also, I had the pleasure to meet Erik and was lucky to have him in the crowd cheering me on and showing him how I was proud to represent LBC.

So, with all of that being said, if you know you are truly ready for a change, are willing to give up a little control, open to some tough love, then I don’t see why you would look anywhere else!!!. Not only is Erik very dedicated to his clients but the LBC community is an extension of his support and you honestly feel like you have a whole new family. Do you think someone who has such success with his clients would have a 2 month waiting list? Just sayin ... it's worth the wait!

- Jasmine Perks, Toronto, ON

I started working with Erik Ledin after my first local show in Florida. I stumbled across Erik through a good friend of mine, and fellow Lean Bodies Consulting client, IFBB Pro Sandi Stuart.

My first show I had no earthly idea what I was doing; I was just listening to some guru in the gym telling me what to do. I pretty much did the whole double cardio and no carbs nonsense. I would go without carbs for 6 days then carb up. My mother at this point insisted I come to Florida to have Sandi Stuart take a look at me and help me out. She saw me told me there was a show next week I should do. She contacted Erik and told him about me. I won that show and right after jumped on Erik’s plan 8 weeks out from the Paradise Cup in Honolulu Hawaii.  He slowly got me off the double cardio without doing any physical metabolic damage to my body. I ate carbs daily and it was FABULOUS!!!! I could not believe the transformation I made from the Florida show to the Paradise Cup, with less cardio, more food, and carbs daily! At first I was a little scared but when all was said in done, I won short class at Paradise cup and took overall.  I there for qualified for Nationals.

After the Paradise Cup I took a good 5 months off to work on my physique. Erik said I could use a little more mass in my mid back. My goal in the off-season was to improve my physique to prepare for my first national show.

Erik had me start of dieting 15 weeks out of Jr. Nationals. I started sooo early because while preparing for Nationals I was completing my college degree and was soon to become a Registered Nurse. This prep was great I only had 4 days of lifting in gym and two fifteen-minute cardio sessions. Every 4-6 weeks my routine changed. With the way I prepared before there is no way I would of graduated college with my nursing degree. Erik’s way gave me plenty of energy and less time in gym so I could actually focus on my career. One thing I love about Erik is that every prep is different. I get bored easily and he is always giving me new challenging workouts. I love the way Erik puts it, as cardio is just an adjunct to a fat-loss program; it is not the key or the magic tool. I had no doubt with Erik’s way that I would be ready to rock Jr. Nationals in Chicago, IL.

Well I more then Rocked it I got my IFBB PRO FITNESS CARD! This was yet another amazing prep, not only because I turned pro but I never had any excessive cardio, low carbs, or cutting of my water. My mood and energy with Erik’s plan was 110% better then the Guru in the gym in Hawaii who had me doing double cardio and no carbs. There is an easier way to dieting and training, that is Erik’s Way! I could not be more pleased and blessed to have such an awesome, caring, and considerate coach. Erik really cares about his clients not only during competition preps but the off-season as well.

Thank you Erik for taking me on as a client and helping me not only achieve my goal in becoming an IFBB PRO FITNESS COMPEITOR but always doing this in the most logical and safe way. I look forward to my pro debut and further pro shows.

- IFBB Pro Nikki Venzara (aka “ Lil Killer), Merritt Island, FL

I've been following Erik’s work for over two years now since I’ve always admired his training and nutrition methods. In July of 2010 I decided I would do a Figure competition in 2011 so I knew then, that it was time to choose a diet Coach to get me ready for it. After researching numerous Coaches and comparing them to the way Erik works and his results, I knew that Erik was the best choice out there for me. The majority of the other Coaches talked a lot about doing multiple cardio sessions and very strict diets. I knew their plan wasn’t for me because I already knew better!

As a new competitor with a great metabolism, it was my priority to do a contest prep that would not mess me up metabolically. I didn’t want to deal with the same issues that numerous competitors have to deal with after doing unhealthy contest preps. Erik was the best decision I made for my diet Coach so we started working on my nutrition plan on March of 2011.

His nutrition method is so easy to follow since it allows you for flexibility on choosing different foods (if you want to) and never felt deprived of anything. Due to my menu options, I never felt tempted to cheat on my meals and it made my plan very easy to stick to. Since I started eating the foods from Erik’s plan, my body started getting healthier each time. My hair fell less, stronger nails, hydrated skin, and felt GREAT throughout the day. My energy levels remained pretty stable all the time. I was never too tired for my workouts or every day life chores.

I did two shows back to back in July and doing Erik’s peak weeks were the easiest things I could’ve imagined! I was expecting (and was mentally prepared) for more grueling dieting methods, since I’ve heard other competitors talk about, but they were so easy! I kept asking Erik when was going to be the time that I would get moody, forgetful, and too tired for anything and he reassured me that hopefully never. He was right! I felt great all the way thru the day of my shows.

In fact, on the last show, my fiancé was in the lobby waiting for me to come out, and another guy asked him if he was waiting for a competitor and he said yes. This other guy asked him how he was “handling” me being moody over the last weeks of contest prep, and my fiancé said; “I’m doing great! She hasn’t been moody at all nor does it feel any different than regular days.” I can only imagine what this other guy had to go thru lol!

I was definitely one of the best-conditioned competitors out there! It was amazing that I got to that point without doing any cardio (or almost none), without sodium manipulation, keeping carbs high all the way thru and drinking water even on the day of the show. On my first show I got second place in Jr Masters (age 35 to 42) and first in my Open class tall. Second show (much bigger show) I got second in Jr Masters and second in Open class D. I'm now qualified to compete at a national show, which I may do next year.

I THANK Erik for working with me and teaching me that there is actually a healthy way to diet for a figure competition!

- Ana Frias, Gilbert, AZ

Erik Ledin is hands down THE MAN when it comes to effective and healthy contest prep.

As someone who has been a fitness professional for well over a decade, it was important for me to work with a coach who not only cares about their clients, but also knows their stuff inside and out.  I can say that Erik has more than exceeded my expectations and has helped me to reach levels beyond my wildest dreams.  When you come from a place of knowing your own body and the things that work/don’t work for it, it’s a scary thing to allow someone else to take the reigns, let alone someone you’ve never met face to face.  With all of the things you hear about the craziness that’s contest prep, I’ll admit I was nervous.  I hired Erik to help me to bring my absolute best package to the stage for my 2011 season, which included my National Level debut at Team Universe.  For me, my biggest pitfall was keeping on my diet, I knew I needed someone to keep me 100% accountable.  Like my own clients, I needed someone to answer to.  And Erik was absolutely the answer I needed.

After only 6 weeks on our plan, I was able to take the stage with poise and confidence.  I knew I had a winning body, and I ended taking 1^st in my class at the NPC California State Championships.  With even more guidance, I feel very confident going into Team Universe knowing that at this present moment, there’s nothing more I could have done to bring my best.  My nutritional plan with Erik was FILLING, it was coherent.  It was 100% individual and based upon my own likes/dislikes , and most importantly it was realistic.  I don’t think there was ever once a time when I felt like I was starving myself, or playing the martyr role of “who can suffer the most” while prepping for a show.  The most beautiful thing was the final week leading into my show.  No hokus pokus, no tricks, no sodium loading/depleting.  None of that complex stuff, yet I still came in beautifully, and my mind was SANE.  I also noticed how the urge to go crazy and binge on everything I couldn’t have during my prep just wasn’t there.  This is a very important thing to note because for me, and that reason, there was absolutely NO rebound post training.  So I was able to take time off, and enjoy life a little before prepping for my next show (a mere 6 weeks away).

I can honestly say that having Erik in my corner was one of the smartest moves I’ve made as a competitor looking to turn pro.  The lesson learned for me is that even if you know your stuff, even if you know your body, it’s essential to have someone IN YOUR CORNER, who sees eye to eye with you, who is also an intelligent objective coach guiding you to levels that may be harder to reach on your own.  No man (or woman) is an island, and in order to succeed those behind you must be of excellent quality, and expect that same quality from you.  Thanks Coach for being so amazing!

- National-Level Figure Competitor, Roxie Beckles, Los Angeles, CA

I have only been working with Erik for 3 short months but I can honestly say in that time my feelings and emotions regarding food have been completely overhauled.  I have competed in 4 bikini competitions in the last 10 months.  For my first one, my meal plan was done but another widely used trainer.  For me, it was impossible to stick to.  It included foods I hated with no option of swapping, didn't include anything that could be construed as a sweet treat, didn't have traditional breakfast foods for breakfast and included 7+ hours of cardio a week.  I stuck with that meal plan probably 25% of the time.  I did my next show prep on my own thinking I would just follow the same program.  I got into a vicous cycle of sticking my spoon in the peanut butter jar and hand in the cereal box and then severely dieting it off the next day.  This cycle only left my hungrier the next day when it would all repeat again.  I felt completely out of control around food.  

A friend of mine wanted me to compete at USA's with her this summer.  I didn't feel like continuing the eating patterns I was having or literally running my summer away so I told her no.  Then I came across Erik and his site and his clients and their stories.  I told my friend that the only way I was doing USA's was if I did it the LBC way.  To be honest, I wasn't totally sure this way would work as well.  Low cardio?  More food?  More variety?  Could it be this easy?  I decided to put my trust in him and do whatever he said.  I was going to try it out and just see if it could work.

Well, friends, it's true.  I dropped 13 lbs in 11 weeks (with a trip to Hawaii thrown in there for good measure) and rocked that stage looking as good as my body could look.  I felt amazing.  My meal plans were built around the foods that I was able to choose.  I LOVED every single meal.  100% compliance is EASY when you love your meal plan!  I dropped the fat with just a couple cardio sessions a week!  People at the gym were asking why I wasn't spending more time on the treadmill!

But the biggest success in my book is how my attitude towards food changed.  When you love your meals and you have someone to be accountable to, you CAN hit 100% compliance.  And when you know you CAN, it feels amazing!!!  To know that you can go to an event and bring your own food or eat before you go and just enjoy being there without the stress that the food might bring is so freeing.  

Thank you Erik for taking me to nationals at the perfect amount of leanness for me and for helping me completely change my attitude toward food.  This program from you has literally been a life changing experience!

- Lindsey Mathews, Springville, UT

My weight loss journey has been a process for many years.  I have done everything from Weight Watchers to Jenny Craig to a Nutritionist that I saw about 10 years ago every week for about 4 years.  I don't consider any of the methods that I have ever used to lose weight as a failure when I did not succeed.  I took lessons, whether small or large from every method that I have ever tried to lose weight. 

When I stopped using you last year I kept using the base of the plan that you customized for me because I liked the simplicity of it so much and the lack of processed foods made me feel great.  About 7 months ago I also decided to go gluten free because I had a sneaking suspicion that I might have a gluten allergy or at the least major sensitivity to it.  It is now July 25, 2011 and I am so proud to tell you that I am down to 141 pounds.  I don't have a record of where my measurements began with you but to date just to give you a few areas they are as follows : abdomen 30 1/4" waist 27 1/2", chest 34 1/2".  I started out at a size 12-14 and now depending on the brand of clothing I can be anywhere between a size 4 to 8. 

Two times in the last month or so someone has seen me that I haven't seen in awhile and they didn't even recognize me.  In both cases they told me that they recognized my hair (hard to miss, haha) but just were not sure that it was me because my body looked so different.  I have lost somewhere around 26 or 27 pounds since last August.  I think that the key for me this time was the mixture of the right science (low carb, complex carbs and gluten free) and my determination because it might take me awhile but I NEVER give up.  I know that I am dealing with a food addiction here and am in a really good place right now.  This does not mean that I don't have to work at it every single second of every day.  That is just my reality and might not be everybody's case but it certainly stands true for me.  I meticulously weigh everything that I eat which is also really important for me to succeed. 

I want to thank you and I also wanted to say that reading your inspirational excerpts and personal motivational comments on Facebook and always reading about how nobody is perfect helps me more than you will ever know.  The fact that you repeat that it's not all about exercise also helps me greatly.  I am still having back issues due to my herniated disc and feel extremely limited as to what I can accomplish with cardio.  I actually started dancing for exercise which is great fun for me but I ended up getting carried away and injuring myself again. Oy!  Thanks again for everything!

- Annie Wechsler, River Edge, NJ

I am a 42 year old, divorced mother of two, and a 2 year breast cancer survivor.  I've been working out since my college days and have competed in both bodybuilding (1999, 2000) and figure (2007, 2010, 2011).  In the past, I've followed the restricted diets, suffered through many no carb days, completed double cardio sessions, and simply overtrained during my contest preps.  I began following posts about Erik and I was immediately intrigued.  He had me at "little to no cardio!!" :)

I signed up with Erik in April and worked with him to get ready for a figure competition in July.  I have to say, this was the easiest, most sane prep EVER!   I trained 4 days a week and these were scheduled around my kids' activities.  How nice it was to go to my son's soccer games and not have to stress about doing cardio or getting my workouts in!!  My diet not only included foods I loved to eat but it also included fruit, more carbs, and the famous PWO meals.  Who knew eating Skinny Cow ice cream sandwiches would help me get lean???  With Erik, cardio is not a major factor in dropping bodyfat and inches, and this was just unreal for me...  After dealing with health issues, I did not want to kill myself and literally break my body down any more than it already had been.  What I also loved about his program is that I kept a lot of muscle during this process, losing a total of 11 lbs.   I did, however, lose inches with every biweekly I submitted.  I looked lean and healthy!!

I am so grateful for having this opportunity to work with Erik, as he has given me the tools to continue on with my training and diet...the RIGHT WAY!

- Cindy Davies, Palm Beach Gardens, FL

I've worked with Erik for the last six months. I'm 5'9 and started out at 142 lbs. I've lost 15 lbs. and numerous inches since January 1st because I dedicated myself to working with a coach who provided me with new training programs and a diet to meet my goals. I think I look great, fit into a bunch of clothes I haven't fit into in over a year, and feel and look strong and healthy. I am PLEASED! I educated myself by paying attention to Erik's plans, asking questions, and by following the LBC Facebook page. I'm much smarter now training and diet wise.

For me, the best part about working with Erik is that he helped me reach MY goals, which changed over the months. I started out thinking I wanted a figure competitor body. But over time I learned that being compliant on my diet 100% of the time was not for me. I can't get that body without being 100% compliant, but I know that now. You do have to sacrifice (extra food) to make that happen - you can't just train extra hard. I really and truly learned - saw firsthand on my own body - what 100% compliance to diet does to you. But I learned that training smart, training consistently, and eating compliant 95% of the time made me happy 100% of the time. I am thrilled with how I look and feel.

Thank you, Erik, for teaching me a new way to train, educating me that you don't need to do hours of cardio each week to get lean, and that yes, I really do need to cut calories and eat clean and compliant if I want to get lean. I am glad to be part of the LBC family!

- Amy Camera, Springville, UT

What an amazing journey this has been for me! I will say that without a solid program there is no way I would have stayed as positive as I am, nor would I have achieved the results I have.

I started training with Erik on Jan 17th, 2011 at a weight of 132. My measurements were waist 29, hips 39.75, thighs 20.75, chest 34, arms 11.5, navel 32, Calves 13.75 and it has been a life changing process and incredible journey. After my one month with Erik I had awesome results. I was down in weight to 128.5 and had lost 11 inches. I did a biweekly just before my first competition and am blown away by the results! After being on Erik’s program for only 14.5 weeks my new measurements were weight 115.5 waist 24.75, hips 32.5 thighs 18, chest 30.75, arms 10, navel 26.5, calves 13 a total of over 29inches and 17 lbs!

When I have heard some of the horror stories regarding diet and exercise I am all too thankful and grateful to have a trainer/coach with Erik’s background. Not one day have I not enjoyed the training or diet. As this was the first time I have done an online training program, I have found it easy to follow. I am not the type of person who needs someone there to push me or drive me when I am at the gym. I push myself every day I am working out and I stay 100% compliant to my diet. As we all know, “Results are not guaranteed; they're earned.” Going into my first show I have earned my results and after competing at my first competition I won 2nd in my short division and 3rd in Masters at Novice and at the second competition which was Provincials I won 2nd in Short and 3rd in Masters. I earned a spot to compete at Nationals. Wow what a crazy 5 months this has been.

I have stayed so positive during the whole process and focused. I give all the credit to my program and coach for such a positive experience. I would not be where I am today without having the guidance I was given by Erik. For anyone looking to compete or just wanting to get on the right track, you have come to the right place. When going to the gym it is so important to work in an effective manner. We can all go and do a work out however it is far more beneficial to work smarter not longer. In all the weeks I have been working with Erik, I did not do countless hours of crazy cardio and achieved success. I also was able to eat a variety of foods that kept my feeling of being denied not there.

Thank you Erik for your passion and amazing way you coach/train! I feel so grateful and blessed to have found the greatest way to train, the Lean Bodies Consulting way! Hugs to you Erik.

- Nicole Ruttig, Yorkton, SK

In 1998, I weighed in at 200 pounds. This was a lot of weight for me because I am only 5’3” tall. I was pregnant with my first child and only 24 years old. Over the years I have been able to lose the weight, but only by overtraining and under-eating,

I discovered Lean Bodies Consulting through Facebook. I was instantly impressed and curious about Erik and his plans. It seemed as though everyone he trained was making amazing strides in their physique and happy all at the same time. His clients were healthy looking and eating ice cream as their PWO carb! I couldn't believe his testimonials and wondered could there really be a "different" way to be contest ready.

My problem areas were my abs and glutes and his clients seemed to be making the best changes in those exact spots. I researched Erik's site and read every one of his articles. I was excited and wanted in too.

I contacted Erik in February, 2011just as I was beginning contest season prep. I was holding around 125-128 pounds and had stepped on stage at 115-110 pounds in my previous shows. I was already doing lots of Group Exercise Classes and extra cardio sessions as well as 5 days each week of weight training.

Over the next few weeks, I was so excited as I waited on my plan to arrive in my email box. You can’t imagine my surprise when I saw "NO CARDIO" on my plan. I was always the 2x per day girl with cardio. I didn't know any other way to lean down than to eat under 1200 calories per day and kill it at the gym everyday.

I put my trust in Erik’s plan and stuck to it like glue! I totally loved the workouts and the diet. It was all my favorite foods and then some! I would have never allowed myself white potatoes in the past but now I get to eat them 4-5 times per week. My PWO carb of choice is ice cream and I was getting leaner.

Erik’s approach is straight and to the point. Compliance is the key to success. At one point during my prep, I ate 2 tootsie rolls. I felt so mad at myself for giving in to temptation and as a punishment, the cardio machine was calling my name. I immediately emailed Erik, told him what I did and how I felt and that I was feeling the need to hit the cardio harder. He assured me that this was no big deal and that I have to the power to let it go or dwell on it. I chose to let it go and move forward while remaining compliant to my plan.

I stepped on stage after only 8 weeks with Erik. I was down 13 pounds and many inches. I went into my show completely hydrated and feeling healthier than ever! My face was glowing and my body had changed in ways that I thought could never happen for me! I actually have glutes now! I received the best feedback from the judges, some of which had judged me in my previous shows and was also amazed in my physique changes. They told me that I looked "perfect" and to change nothing about my training and diet plan.

I am convinced that Erik is THE KING of contest prep! I am currently 17 days from my next Figure Competition and have no intention of doing this any other way than the LBC way!

- Angie Morales, Corbin, KY

I had always wanted to compete in a figure competition, and I felt I had the build and love for fitness to get there. However, I was always talk and no action. I had talked about it for a few years but never had the commitment to actually go through with it. That all changed this year. In January I made a choice to FINALLY go through with something in my life that I said I was going to do. I knew it wouldn't be easy and that if I was going to do this I needed to give 110%. No excuses, no looking back. I began researching figure competitions, spending hours on-line, ect. There was so much conflicting information out there I was overwhelmed. All the talk about 2-3 hour a day cardio sessions, 800 calorie diets, ect. I was beginning to think "What the hell am I doing?! There's no way I can work out 3 hours a day! Fish every day, all day!?!? What!?!?! Then I found HOPE!

I came across Lean Bodies Consulting on Facebook randomly one day and decided to check out the website. I fell in love!! Reading through Erik's no bulls**t philosophies, straight forward advice, I knew he was the right choice for me! And all this talk about rarely any cardio and ice cream post workout? "Sign me up!" Is what I said to myself! I loved every article he wrote, blogs, ect. I knew I needed guidance for my first competition and Lean Bodies is exactly what I needed! I signed up early March which is when I started working with Erik. He set my program up and there was no turning back from there!

Now don't get me wrong, contest prep is NOT easy people, I had my up and down days of hunger, days I wanted to quit, but I didn't. I started noticing amazing changes in my body. The body fat that I had began to melt off. I'm a small framed person and didn't know I had that much body fat to peel off but I was wrong! I started to get so lean, get extremely cut, and that's what kept me going. The key to success is compliance, perseverance, and dedication, and that is what Erik teaches.  Erik and Lean Bodies Consulting totally changed my life. Going through this whole process taught me that I can do anything if I put my mind to it, and I don't just mean fitness wise but anything in life you strive for can be achieved with hard work and dedication. I went from a person who didn't believe I could follow through with anything to a person with such extreme confidence and drive knowing that NOTHING can stand in my way of any dream I have.

No matter how many clients Erik has, you feel like you are the only one. He treats everyone as individuals, no cookie-cutter programs here!  He is always there to answer questions, give advice, and have an incredible working relationship with his clients. I thank him and Lean Bodies Consulting for an amazing experience and would definitely recommend his services to anyone out there. Now that my competition is over, I plan on continuing to work with Erik and see what the future holds for me. Thank you Lean Bodies for a truly amazing life changing experience!!!

Abby Wilson, Oskaloosa, IA

I have trained off and on since 1988, I never felt I was progressing or reaching my full potential although I worked with numerous personal trainers. In February, 2010 a friend and accomplished figure competitor recommended Erik Ledin/ LBC. It seemed like a good idea due to my busy schedule and time restraints regarding personal training sessions etc.

I contacted Erik and retained his services in March of 2010. I was instantly impressed with the fact that he provided a step by step training routine and precise dietary guidelines for me to follow. Basically, Erik took away all the guesswork and allowed me to focus on training and diet. The accountability aspect also appealed to me because he instilled a coaching relationship rather than the customary "personal trainer" non-relationship.

I began to see visible improvements within a few weeks and totally transformed my body over the next 6 months. LBC/Erik Ledin enabled me to lose over 25 lbs , develop lean muscle and actually achieve a lifelong goal and aspiration, to compete in a figure competition. At age 41, I placed in the top 10 and felt so excited and accomplished. I can't wait to compete again in the near future.

These accomplishments would not have been remotely possible without Erik coaching me every step of the way! His knowledge and willingness to help made all of the difference. It however was NOT easy and Erik is a tough coach who encourages you through the process but also calls you on your "BS". I also feel compelled to mention that he doesn't implore countless hours of cardio but prepares a diverse,extremely effective training routine which is perfectly complimented by a step by step meal plan.

I highly recommend LBC and will be retaining his services for my next figure competition!

Regards,

Tiffany Kidd, MPAS, PA

I initially heard about Erik through a local figure competitor and was skeptical due to the online aspects of the service. My fiancé proceeded as a client and I started to see the different training methods and dietary changes transform her physique at a very quick rate.

I contacted Erik and although I struggled to "let go of the reins", it's the best decision I've made in twenty years of training. I had no idea how stagnant my routines had become and how off my nutritional program was. Erik created challenging, rewarding workouts and totally provided me with a step by step, precise diet.The diet was a n adjustment because I learned that I was overeating and consuming many excess calories. The training was awesome and I only had to train 4 days with minimal cardio. Totally refreshing change BUT very intense and effective.

In 12 weeks I dropped 29 lbs of body fat, retained lean muscle with size and streamlined my waist from 40" to 33.This transformation was only possible through Erik's precise training regimen and his precise dietary instruction. On November 20, 3 months after signing up with LBC, I competed in my first bodybuilding competition(along side my fiancé in figure). I placed 2nd in Novice and 3rd in Masters division! The trophies were a nice bonus but obtaining my goals and experiencing the journey with Erik and my fiancé was ultimately, the most rewarding aspect of all!

Thanks Erik, I learned so much through your coaching and look forward to working with you in the near future and perhaps, prepping for my next competition.

Respectfully,

Spencer Wormuth, Madison Heights, VA

Erik Ledin was referred to me by a friend.  At first, I was a little skeptical about doing the program online but I decided to give it a try because it came highly recommended. The diet was the most difficult change for me. I ate rather healthy before I started the program but once I was educated by the things Erik provided, I started to think differently on the things I was consuming. I have always worked out to keep myself in shape and healthy but i did not achieve the results I should have with the hard work I put into it.

Erik's diet program was very precise and tailored just for me.Starting out, the workouts were difficult but very effective. My strength increased along with my endurance. I did not spend hours in the gym. My time in the gym was usually 45 min to an 1 hour and 15 min depending on the amount of people. The cardio was excellent. I didn't do a lot of continuous long distance running. I did sprints and hill training which increased my cardio endurance better than any running I have done in my past. The strength training, cardio and diet all combine together put me in the best shape I have been in since my high school varsity basketball days.

The program taught me discipline with my diet and effective strength training and cardio. I am glad that I chose to work with Erik! His program really is the truth.

- Allen Golphin, Grovetown, GA

I read somewhere once that happy people measure themselves by their progress. So as long as they are making continual improvements they are continually happy.  On the other hand, unhappy people  measure themselves against the ideal. In this case they always fall short, because in reality the ideal is a concept and not a tangible thing that actually exists.

So in other words.. you can chase rainbows and sunsets and never catch them but instead of focusing on where you aren't...  you focus on where you are and enjoy that.

That's what I choose to do today. I choose to focus on where I am.  I am happy.

I competed this past weekend at the Europa Super Show in the IFBB Figure Division. That in itsself is an amazing accomplishment. It took me two years to get back to the stage after I won my class at Team U in 2008.  I simply wasn't prepared for the pro ranks.

Now, after competing at the Europa I realized that I still have a long way to go to be competitive in the pro ranks. That is fine with me, because I was born to take on challenges and I just happen to be crazy (in a good way) and believe I can do anything.. God willing.

With Erik's help I made great strides this season. Despite running into a few obstacles.. with my injury and my eating issues, I still managed to pull off one hell of a transformation.

If it weren't for Erik's constant support and guidance.. I would still be on the sidelines waiting to get in the game. Thanks to him, I am in the game and ready to play.

Cynthia Herndon- IFBB Figure Pro

Back on track

Exercise is not new to me.  Eating a healthy diet is not new to me. Counting calories is not new to me.   Combining all of these into a new regime tailored to what my body truly needs IS new to me.

Over the past couple of years my body has gone down the post menopausal path, and things that worked in previous years, ceased to work. I found myself resorting to drastic “quick” diets to try to lose any weight gained during a bulk.  I had muscle, but also very stubborn fat.  I felt at a loss as to which direction to go.

This spring I finally bit the bullet and jumped at the chance to join Lean Bodies Consulting. I’ve watched Ileen and others transform themselves over the years with amazing results.  I knew it would be hard work, but also knew that these people trusted Erik and his plans.

In my floundering around, I had gotten back into the habit of less calories = more weight loss. That is not always the case.  Just like overeating is bad for a body, under eating is detrimental also.  Erik came up with a perfect plan for me. There was so much food to fit in during the day.  This can’t be dieting? I was eating ALL the time! Another thing I’ve learned from this process: weight loss is not fat loss.  I think we all know that, but stating it and working it are so different.

The exercise plans have been challenging and rewarding. Some exercises I started out hating, but have grown to “enjoy”.  All aspects of my physique are covered. There is a great variety of weights and circuits to keep it exciting. Not a ton of cardio! I am able to see how my meals fuel my workouts and my body.

I am a work in progress and for the past 16 weeks have made great progress in a forward direction.  I have food plans and exercise plans that I can use and know they work for me.  I feel better physically knowing that I am not just spinning my wheels, or being stuck on the same merry-go-round.  Feeling better mentally helps me to get back on track with other important aspects of my life.

Can’t wait to see where this next phase takes me!  Thank You Lean Bodies Consulting!

- Marci Martin, Brussels, WI

A little about me and how I found Erik Ledin ... I have pretty much always been the “skinny” girl from the FAT family. Everyone is overweight so I’m not sure why I was only 100 lbs out of high school. It only made sense that I would study health and wellness at college and yes follow the “FADS” of fitness and nutrition. Jane Fonda, step aerobics, Pilates, yoga, kick boxing, running, spinning, triathlons, high carb, low fat, no fat, no carb, the zone, Atkins, South Beach, Raw and lets see how many trainers, coaches and motivational speakers have I gone to and paid for ... 10! You name it and I have either tried it or researched it!

As 40 is quickly approaching I wanted to make a change in my obsession with the “FADS of FITNESS”. I wanted to find what I imagined to be an expert in the field of fitness. So I actually wrote out all the traits I wanted in a coach, Online coaching, affordable, nutrition and fitness plans that are e-mailed to me, a visible way for me to track my efforts, well designed goals based around my lifestyle, not a cookie-cutter plan and access to coach by e-mail. I wanted honesty even if it hurt a little, followed by a good sense of humor. This person must practice what they preach and be physically fit and find great honor in their work. Finally, the single most important thing I wanted is for this person to be a part of my personal TEAM for success. I really wanted them to care about my success, my goals and my ability to achieve them in a healthly, fun manner that fit my lifestyle. I spent hours on the internet reading, e-mailing, and studying about the best of the best.

As I look at my old sheet of note paper there is a name that in written in red pen and circled, Erik Ledin. So began my journey. I e-mailed Erik and I was accepted as a client. It will be a year in September that I have been a client of Erik’s and it is by far the single best gift I have ever given myself. The knowledge and support that I have gained in this year has surpassed my college education 1000 times over. Not only has Erik met all the traits that I was looking for in a coach, he has surpassed all of them. Erik works with top fitness competitors but he also is able to transform people like me, just a gal that wants to get into great shape and stay that way. Erik will be hard on you when you need it but he will be the first one to celebrate your fitness and lifestyle victories. He will call you on your BS but he also understands that we are human (not machines) and that at times, YES this is hard! He has not only taught me a new way to look at fitness and nutrition, he has taught me to embrace this journey from the inside out! Get clear in my head, know my goals, stick to the program, work hard and success is achievable!

Some of my favorite quotes from Erik “Work within the genetics YOU were given”, “Choose the behavior accept the consequences”, “This is a lifestyle change not a quick fix and the only one you are competing with is really yourself”. I can’t say enough about my 110% satisfaction with Erik and his coaching program! I value him as an amazing mentor and coach and look forward to achieving all the goals I have set and creating new ones along the way!

Erik, Thank You for making a difference!

- Kristina Woolf, Warner Robins, GA

For the first time in my life, I can honestly say that I am happy with my physique, and I owe that satisfaction to Erik’s guidance over the past year. For as long as I can remember I have struggled with my weight.  I have been overweight, underweight and somewhere in between, but never have I been completely at peace with the reflection I see in the mirror. My journey to improving my physique began at the age of fourteen, when I finally became fed up with feeling insecure about my body and joined a gym. Soon I began to see some results, which served as the catalyst for what would become an obsession with building a lean and muscular physique like the ones that graced the cover of fitness magazines. Fast forward ten years. I have spent countless hours reading magazines, books and internet articles in search of the answers that would get me to that point. I have wasted thousands of dollars and fallen victim to the marketing of supplement companies who claimed their product would unlock my muscle building/fat burning potential. And I have tried numerous programs created by industry ‘experts’ hoping each time that doing so would produce the results that were promised. Throughout this time I had worked so hard and sacrificed so much, yet I was still so far from where I wanted to be. But finally, amidst one of my many internet research sessions, fate set in and I found Erik. I am forever thankful for that, as to date he is the ONLY person who has helped me make significant improvements myself both mentally and physically.

I began working with Erik in September of 2009. My goal when I hired him was to build muscle, as the workouts and diets that I had been doing on my own were producing less that stellar results.  For the first four months I did a traditional bulk that entailed lots of food, intense weight training, and (gasp) NO cardio. Little had I known that this was how you were supposed to go about gaining muscle. I had always been very apprehensive to accept the fat gain that came along with building a muscular physique, so I tried to do so with a diet of limited carbs and almost daily cardio. Hiring Erik forced me out of my comfort zone, but I knew that I had to give up that control if I wanted to change.

When I decided to transition towards dieting, Ill admit that I was nervous for what was to come. Having been eating so much good food for months, I was anxious that my carbs would be taken away and Id be hungry all day long. Much to my surprise and delight, that was never the case. I was still able to enjoy the same foods I did during my bulk, just a little less of them. During that time I can attest that I never felt hungry, deprived, or run down like the dieting stories you often hear. My workouts were challenging and intense (which made up for the minimal cardio I was doing) and I was able to maintain my strength and energy the entire time. The end result was me weighing the exact same that I did when I started, but with a completely different body composition. I am leaner now than I have ever been, but I actually have some muscle for once. I couldn’t be happier with my results, and I am constantly being stopped in the gym by people who are admiring my physique and asking if I compete. For someone who has worked so hard to look that way, there is no better compliment.

In our early correspondence, I told Erik that what I wanted was a coach, not a cheerleader. I had the internal motivation, I just needed his expertise to guide me in the right direction.  A coach is what I wanted and that is exactly what I got. I am the upmost perfectionist, and I want results immediately. Whenever I got frustrated that I wasn’t progressing like I hoped, he was always there to remind me that “this process is a marathon, not a sprint” and building the physique I desired takes time. Even if it wasn’t what I wanted to hear, it was often what I needed to hear to bring me back to reality, and his honesty helped me change the way I view my training. Rather than get discouraged because I didnt transform over night, he taught me to enjoy the journey and celebrate the small successes along the way. Now  I no longer compare myself to others who are stronger, leaner, more muscular, etc. like I did in the past, which always lead to frustration and disappointment. Through working with Erik, I now gain satisfaction each time I improve on my own previous bests or witness the changes in my physique, however small they may be. For the first time in my training “career”, I am truly enjoying the process. And while my journey may not yet be complete, I am confident that I will take what Erik has taught me and continue to make significant improvements. I look forward to seeing what I can now achieve.

I cant say enough great things about Erik and his coaching. He is a true professional whose knowledge of nutrition and training is insurmountable. If there were more trainers like Erik, who truly cared about their clients and took the time to create solid and effective plans, the fitness industry would be a much better place. If you are looking for a smart, sane, maintainable and most importantly, enjoyable program, I encourage you to hire Erik to help you reach your goals. Whether you want to gain muscle or strength, lose fat or just be an overall healthier and happier person, Erik will help you get there.

Thank you, Erik, for your guidance and support. But most importantly, thank you for giving me my life back. I am a happier and more confident person because of you.

Marci Nevin, California

Erik’s coaching works! I have learned how to eat properly and train effectively. I have improved physically. I have changed how I view food and dieting. Physically I am leaner and stronger. I am more confident. The diet and workout plans Erik provided specifically for me are effective … and sane! I didn’t starve. I didn’t do needless hours of cardio! I no longer view carbs as evil. (They actually help me!) And my physique has changed significantly, more so than with any other diet I’ve tried.

With Erik as my coach, my eyes were opened to my distorted relationship with food and dieting, and he patiently helped me adopt a more positive mindset regarding the beliefs I hold and choices I make involving food. If I had not met Erik I still would be searching for that “perfect” diet. I still would be confused about effective training. I still would be holding on to misguided beliefs and a negative perspective towards food and dieting. Thankfully, I learned about Erik. Working with him has benefited me in more ways than I would have imagined. Erik has helped me finally “get it.”

- Susan Guina, Dayton, OH

I am unique in my own way. I don’t think Erik has too many ”home school moms of four” come across his path. My journey is my own. As with most moms with each child I had, I got bigger and bigger. About six years ago I decided I couldn’t be happy and enjoy my life as that person anymore. I decided to lose weight the only way I knew how, the wrong way! I dropped 50 lbs. And was a skinny fat person. At 135 lbs. I was soft and mushy. I struggled not eating and by 2008 was back up to 150 lbs.

I joined a gym and started lifting weights and doing cardio. Four months later I was still 150 lbs. I happened upon a magazine in my gym that talked about clean eating. I started learning I could eat but different foods. I lost those 15 lbs.

I let things slide again and in January 2010 I was back up to 143. I decided it was time to get my act together. I started keeping track of what I was eating everyday. I also started looking online for a coach to help me. A professional, someone who knew what he was doing. I would find someone, keep my eye on them a while and check them off my list. From my research I thought it might be a good idea to get a body composition done so when I found the right coach they would know what I was made of. On March 15th I went into a Bod Pod, an egg shaped air pressure chamber that would test my body fat. At 5’7” I weighed in at 135.6 lbs. Of which my fat mass was 28.5% or 38.6 lbs. And my fat free mass was 71.5% or 97 lbs. I was ready and eager to find a coach.

I ended up finding Lean Bodies Consulting on facebook. When I “liked” the page to see what LBC was all about, Erik Ledin had requested to be my friend, so I accepted. It was a great way to learn more about his training and diet philosophy. I knew by watching him I had found my coach.  

My experience with Erik was positive. I would recommend him to anyone wanting to better his or her health and figure. I followed his plan as best I could and I feel it was very successful. I ended my twelve-week course with him by having another body composition done. My success cannot be denied. I was thrilled with my results. I weighed in at 118 lbs. with 14.3% body fat or 16.9 lbs. My fat mass went from 38.6 lbs. to 16.9 lbs. My lean (fat free) mass went from 97 lbs. to 101.2 lbs.! But how could this be? I didn’t think you could gain muscle while dieting. The guy who did my composition simply said, “Good nutrition. You did everything right.” I was amazed that I had gained that much muscle while dieting. At 43 years old I look better than ever and am so excited about my fitness future. Thank you Erik for all your help, you have no idea how wonderful I feel on the inside! This journey has not been just a physical transformation.

- Denise Kossan, Rush City, MN

Training with Erik Ledin has ultimately been a life-changing experience, I am TRULY thankful for having the opportunity to train under the guidance and knowledge of such an honest, sincere, open and good-hearted person. The unbelievable physical results I achieved in such a short period of time is just one of the great benefits that came along prepping for a show with Erik. What I believe was the most important and rewarding transformation that took place was the transformation inside. I now have a completely different outlook on competing, training and nutrition; I feel more confident and excited for my future as a figure competitor!

Erik designed a program with balance, challenging, yet achievable opportunities to bring me into my best contest shape. He provided informative knowledge that created a feeling of being very well balanced and grounded all through my prep (something that was overwhelmingly nice to experience for a change!!) as well as installed a new frame of mind looking at contest prep and that it really doesn't have to be stressful or destructive to your body and mind. (You really can have fun while you’re at it, not be carbless and look damn good!)

I enjoyed my workouts immensely, loved the meal plan and felt strong and healthy all throughout. Cardio was cut into a 1/3 of which I’ve done before prepping for shows and the results were 3 times better the way Erik had me do it effectively in less time. (bonus bonus!!!!) I have to add that the relief of not rebounding after a competition means soooooooo much! Thanks for setting me up for success before and after the show J

I have a strong belief that I will take pleasure in a longer more satisfying life in the competition ring as well as off the stage now that I’ve had the guidance of Erik Ledin, I highly recommend and encourage anyone who is looking for balance and the best transformation inside and out to consider his services. Thank you for all your help, no doubt will I be back to train with the best!

- Kathy Mack, Red Deer, Alberta

I started my journey with Erik in September 2009. Having done my first figure competition in August 2009 and training couple of years before that, like a competitor, but not competing, if that makes sense, I run out of options and ideas, how to make things work and my body respond to it. Of course 3 hours of cardio approach, ‘keto’ diet, starvation, high reps only training, no squads, as it makes your legs wilder, was standard to me and what I heard on daily basis from ‘big’ male competitors. I even went through the experience with a coach/trainer (who won couple of titles here and there), who couldn’t understand, that I train for myself, not for gold and medals and if I feel like to do a competition it’s an additional aim to me, that keeps me motivated and gives me a kick, not my priority. He also was the one, who tried to convince me, that if I want to win anything, I need to take ‘something’ lol of course I thanked him after that episode.

But with Erik it was all different!! My friend, who is a ‘veteran’ to me in competing lol and who helped me a lot, hired Erik couple of months before me. She only gave me couple of details, but when I heard, how much cardio she does, it was pretty obvious, I’m gonna knock on Erik’s door straight away! 

So after exchanging couple of emails with Erik, I soon become his ‘protégée’

How exciting was waiting for my first training and diet? Just like a kid getting a candy for Xmas!  I must have checked my email million times  so as like every time, when I was awaiting my monthly update. I have done the exercises I never knew about before and felt muscles, I never knew, existed! Lol My workouts were short and intense and the pain after them beautiful and ongoing!  No cardio in off season and very little, when shredding. Finally I understood, that if I want to really change my physique and improve certain parts of my body, I need to allow that process and make some ‘sacrifices’ meaning, I need to allow a bulk process, when you build muscles, eat hell of a lot and get a bit fat here and there. It’s all controlled fat, I must admit and nothing to be scared of 

The diet was straight forward. I never ate things I didn’t like. It was suited for me and my taste. Erik provided me with tools such as food calculator, so I could substitute products, when I felt like. He has also an awesome, still growing blog of recipes on his LBC web, which will fit into everyone’s life still and taste. Trust me on it!

Understanding, professionalism, knowledge about diet and training is expected from a good coach/trainer and that is, what we pay for. Erik is such a wonderful human being and I wouldn’t be exaggerating, if I said he really changed me life. I don’t think, he himself, understands how big input he has into people’s life. The amount of times he picked me up, when I was drowning in my own little battles is countless!  How many times he helped me understand what I’m experiencing and why it’s happening is another story.  That’s something what I didn’t pay for and I would never expect it from any coach. I’m very grateful that I ‘met’ Erik. His wise advices helped me to understand myself and stop comparing to other competitors and trying to look like someone else. He taught me that I will be only happy when I develop the best Ilona’s physique I ever could and that should be my main aim- to improve and compete with myself and get better year by year.

Thank you very much, Erik! It is truly wonderful feeling to know that there is a lovely coach/trainer/human being out there, who isn’t only working with you to make money, but sees your personal success as his own success.

Ilona Loewnau, Manchester

I started working with Erik back in 2008, I was looking to take my physique to the next level and knew I would need the help of a trainer and nutritionist. I had no idea where to begin looking so I went to bodybuilding.com and began searching for figure competitors in my area. I stumbled upon a client of Erik's and was immediately intrigued by her physique and noticed she had Erik listed as her coach.

I then began to research Erik's website. Enviously looking at his client's transformation pictures and inspiring testiomonials. I sent Erik a message stating that I was interested in hiring him and he replied back with the client quesstionnaire and I began my journey to a healthier & fitter me. I worked with Erik over the next 4 months and hit a wall to where I wanted to be "normal" again and not have to weigh every meal. So, I took a break for a few months and as a result I got fat! By the end of Summer 2009 I was weighing 175lbs, none of my clothes fit and I was unhappy with my body. I was a Division I collegiate athlete, I was rocking a 6pk in Oct. 2008 and I was lifting heavier than before and now I was soft, squishy and FAT! I knew I wanted my body back so I contacted Erik again and simply asked if he had time to take me on as a client AGAIN. He told me yes and asked when I wanted to start, I instantly replied ASAP!!!

I started training again in November 2009, two weeks before U.S Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's AND my birthday. This was about to be a whole new test of how serious I was about my training and nutrition  adherance. Thanksgiving day came and it just so happened to fall on my biweekly. I had great results thus far, but let's be honest I LOVE to eat and wanted to enjoy a meal with family. I messaged Erik asking him if it was okay and his response was really made the "switch" flip for me. He told me that this was a lifestyle, not some plan with an end date. Certain events happen once a year and you have to incorporate them into your life!!

I proceeded to train hard and maintain my diet and the weight kept falling off! I had begun to gradually meet more and more like minded people with a passion for fitness and health over the next few months that helped me maintain my accountability & let me vent when I was sore, tired and hungry.

I had always pondered the idea of entering a figure competition but thought I was so far from being stage ready it was only a distant dream. I kept getting encouraging nudges from friends to enter a competition and I kept putting it off until I decided to SIEZE THE DAY!! I had an initial plan in May to prepare for a competition in August my only concerns were: would my training and meal plan drastically change, would I be eating tilapia for every meal (yuck), would I have to do 2 hrs of cardio a day?!?? I decided to do a bikini competition as a "stage warm-up" in June. Once I told Erik of my decision I just knew my plan would do a 180* and I would immediately regret the decision. That e-mail never came and I continued on my current plan! My competition day finally came and I never ate tilapia, didn't want to naw my arm off and only had a few extra cardio sessions. I went into the competition with NO expectations but to do have fun and make some new friends! I started talking with other competitiors about their diets and training and my jaw hit the floor. Some girls were eating fish and green beans for every meal, doing hours of cardio & prepping for months with ZERO rest days! At this point I realized how great a coach I had that I didn't have to suffer through this tortorous approach to competition prep. I ended up placing 2nd in my class at this show and was HOOKED!!

I didn't have any other plans to compete but a friend and fellow competitor convinced me to do another show the following weekend. I said hey why not?! I was stage ready and had so much fun the first time. I competed the next weekend and won the Overall in Bikini!!! I was really excited and thought well that was fun and was ready to get back to just training hard. Then yet again another friend put the idea in my head to do another show a few weeks later. Gotta love my friends! :) This time though it was a National Pro Qualifier, Team Universe. Haha what was I thinking, a national show and I hadn't even been competing a month?!? I messaged Erik asking if I was crazy to try and do this show. He told me the competition would be much stiffer but it would be a good experience to step on a national stage. I thought it over and over and over and finally decided to do it! My next thought was OMG, lol what did I get myself into. These girls were gorgeous, and had what I called boobs and sex eyes. I was just a small town girl. But I hopped on the plane and made my way to Team U! I had the opportunity to meet up with some fellow LBC clients, competitors and even Erik! His first words to me were, "You're more muscular than in your pics." Haha I guess that's better than have you been sticking to your diet and training?!? As I was sitting at some pre-judging events and looking around I realized, Yes the girls are gorgeous, Yes the magnitude of the event is more than at a local show but it was really just like any other show. This put my mind and nerves at ease and I was ready to STRUt!!

The morning of pre-judging I had NO expectations and just went out on stage hoping not to fall on my face. Haha, so imagine my excitemet when I made first callouts!!! GAME ON! I hit the night show knowing at this point I had made Top 5 at Nationals, now it was time for the final placings! I had expected to place 5th, so when they called the 5th and 4th place awards and neither were my number I got really excited. If I could place Top 2 I would earn my Pro card! Haha the sheer thought of it made my stomach do a flip. They called out 3rd place and I stepped out to accept my trophy! I was excited to place so well but my never say quit, crazy competitive, strive for the best mentality left me HUNGRY!! I took the night off and began to ponder the idea of giving it one last hurrah for the TOP SPOT! I realized I was ready, I had a great plan and was on the national radar.

So here I stand prepping for Jr. USA's in Texas!! I had thought of doing a local show in between but Erik reminded me, "You don't go backwards, you compete at the National level and that's where you stay!" So as I reflect over the last month of competing I think of my soft and squishy former self at 40 lbs heavier and feeling bummed, and I notice my new leaner body and athlete mindset and think what a difference this lifestyle change has made!!

- Kendra Warren, Franklin, TN

I have to say this has been the least stressed I have ever been in any contest prep! I have only done 5 competitions, with 4 being on the local level and one national level show. However, all but this last prep for NPC Jr. Nationals has been grueling. Now dont get me wrong, preparing for any competition, National or Local is going to be challenging, but it can also be healthy and rewarding.

I started with Erik in December after competing at a local show and qualifying for Nationals. I had qualified for a National show at every NPC show I had competed in since 2007 but this time I had finally decided to go. The feedback from the judges was always that my conditioning was good but I just needed more size. Size for me had been a challenge so I really needed to work with someone who I could really trust to guide me through an off season/ bulk and then lean me out for my first National show. In addition, I wanted to go a healthier route than I had in the past. After the last cometition in November, I had a brief bout with edema where my limbs had swollen so tight that it was actually  painful. It was because of the low carbs and low sodium diet that I had been on for so long!

After speaking with Erik, I found him the refreshing, "no-nonsense" type like myself. Get the results. Forget the FLUFF. We had similar backgrounds in Kinesiology and Exercise Physiology so I could really respect his reasoning and opinions. He didn't put me through ridiculous amounts of cardio, cut out my sodium, dehydrate me, starve me or have me taking any unnecessary wasteful supplments!

Erik has done an awesome job with guiding me through a healthy bulk and leaning me out for my first National show through healthy nutritional guidance. With his assistance, I placed 9th in my category in my first National showing at NPC JR. NATIONAL'S 2010! I am very happy for the future ahead and competing in the future with Erik's guidance!

- Chaya Boone, Chicago, IL

Frustrated, confused, overwhelmed and exhausted are the emotions I was experiencing when preparing for my first figure contest. I had been working with a trainer 3 days a week for about 4 months and I was about 2 and half months from the show. My training sessions weren’t the problem. It was the other 4 days a weeks where I found myself confused, not knowing what I should be doing on my own or what to eat. I reached out to a co-worker of mine who had done several contests in the past and she shared her success with Leanbodies Consulting. I was hesitant at first. Working with an online coach was never something I considered and I had thought I’d be working a disadvantage by not having an in person coach. Well I have to say I’m glad I stepped out in faith and hired Erik because I started noticing changes in my body in the first week. I cut my time in the gym in half and felt comforted that I had a clear day to day diet plan to follow. I placed 3rd in my class in my very first show and I know it because of the guidance and wisdom of an experienced coach. I plan on competing again in the fall and have no doubts that I will be working with Erik again.

- Ebonee Johnson, Gaithersburg, MD

I hired Erik Ledin in March 2010 to assist me with competition prep.  This was my 3rd year competing and I wanted to hit the stage better than ever before.  I had been doing my own prep for 8 weeks.  I started off with moderate cardio and diet.  Over the 8 weeks, I kept increasing the cardio and decreasing the calorie intake to keep seeing results.  I could see myself heading down the same old path that I’d been going for the last 2 years.  More cardio, less calories and no better physique.  I had a couple of friends working with Erik and I kept seeing their results.  They loved Erik, his workouts, his diets and their RESULTS.  I had to see what he was about.  I emailed him and told him “I have 11 weeks to get ready”.  Do you think I can do it?  He didn’t promise me anything except great workouts, diet and his expertise.  It was up to me and what I’d been doing to this point.  Everyone around me was skeptical because he wasn’t promising me the moon but me.  I was willing to take that chance to learn something new and bring a better package to the stage.  You know what… I did too.  I look the best I’ve ever looked.  It wasn’t easy by no means but it was less time in the gym and better food throughout most of the prep.  What I love about Erik is that he forces you to be accountable and he measures your results through different methods.  You can discuss your concerns with him and he can give you experience and fact based information.  He never requested I buy supplements nor do anything that jeopardized my health.  Any questions I had on supplements or anything, he’d give it to me straight.  I can’t say enough about him and what he brings to the fitness industry.  I wouldn’t think twice about using him again or suggesting him to other people.

- Lisa Anderson, Nashville, TN

In September 2009 I hired Erik Ledin at Lean Bodies Consulting to  help me prepare for my very first natural bodybuilding competition in April 2010. This gave me 7 ½ months to get my body from 167 lbs and not very well defined to being totally ripped. When I hired Erik he had me complete a thorough questionnaire to get a complete understanding of my current health and fitness level and find out my personal goals.
 
Back then my goal was to look and feel the best I ever had in my life, and to look ‘like I belonged’ on stage (I didn’t want to look like some dude that just walked off the street), while taking a healthy approach to fitness.  

Erik has an incredibly deep and thorough I also know that following Erik’s guidance was a vital key to this transformation.understanding of nutrition and fitness. While this seems obvious, it’s not. There are a lot of trainers out there (seems like most of them) that rely on industry ‘folklore’ and ‘myth’ to get results for their clients. Erik’s approach is always based on results AND health. I was always eating healthy, natural foods and had some actual variety in my meals (I met some competitors that ate boiled chicken and cucumber ONLY).
 
Erik personally invests himself into each clients’ specific goals and does whatever he can to help them come to light. He constantly adjusted my meal and workout plan based on results and kept a close eye to any other feedback. In addition, Erik’s process of consistent reporting helped to keep me accountable.
 
At the start of this transformation I was 167 lbs with a 34.5” waist and very little muscle definition. On contest day I weighed 145 lbs with a 29.5” waist and LOTS of muscle definition. I had never been even close to this shape in my entire life and am grateful that Erik helped me on this journey.
 
For anyone considering hiring a personal trainer for any reason I would highly endorse Erik and his services. 

- Cameron Hacault, Victoria, BC

I started competing 6 years ago.  Along the way, I met and worked with several coaches that wore my body down to points that required extensive rehab.  I made it through a competition year with my own expertise to realize every great athlete needs a coach.  My search began.  I came across Erik Ledin of Lean Bodies Consulting.  As I dug further into Erik's practices and beliefs, I began to wonder why it took me 6 years to find him.  Erik truly understands the proper way to train, the optimal nutritional approach and most of all the, cardio needs.  My only question now is ... why did it take me so long to find him.

- Crystal Wells, Derby, KS

I'm so glad I found Erik. I've tried diet after diet in the past and spent thousands on worthless supplements, just to end up looking the same. With Erik, I've learned what it truly takes to achieve my fitness and physique goals. More importantly, he's totally changed how I think about nutrition and exercise. I'd highly recommend him to anyone looking to change their bodies -- and minds -- for the better.

- Guillermo Rubio, West Jordan, UT

I sat down to write this, trying to find the words to explain that Erik literally changed my life.  I know that sounds a bit extreme but it is the truth nonetheless.  I started out my fitness journey having some exercise experience, but no real purpose or science behind it.  In a matter of a few short months I had made great physical changes and in a few more I had made amazing mental changes as well.  I went from wanting to lose weight to being motivated to build muscles, so away we went together on that journey.  Erik was always willing to lead me on to the next challenge and keep me motivated to continue making progress and seeing changes.  He worked with me through a fight with breast cancer, modifying routines along the way, and rehabbing me after numerous surgeries.  I can honestly say I emerged from a yearlong treatment schedule stronger than when I started.  Now that I am fully recovered, I have continued with LBC because my exercise and nutrition have been vital to my overall wellness. Erik’s approach to training and nutrition fits me to a tee.  I no longer have to worry about what to do and when to do it – it is laid out so all I need to do is follow the plan.   I have learned so much over the past years, and I am certain that will continue for years to come.  I have seen many of the people that Erik has worked with over the years make great transformations, and I consider myself lucky to be among them.  Thank you Erik – for doing what you do!

Molly V.   Des Moines, Iowa

I began working with Erik in August 2008.  I always loved the physique of figure competitors and I was contemplating doing a show.  I knew I couldn’t hire a personal trainer from my gym since pretty much all their clients looked exactly the same as they did six months ago.  I found Lean Bodies Consulting while researching online.  The before and after pictures on the LBC website were very impressive.  I contacted Erik, completed my paperwork and anxiously awaited my first program.   I have to admit, I was a little skeptical about hiring an online trainer.  Was it just some person on the other end of the computer handing out some plan and not really knowing what they were doing?     Erik’s knowledge on training and nutrition quickly laid my fears to rest.  

I started out with dieting to lose some fat.   I absolutely LOVE, LOVE Erik’s minimal cardio approach.  It’s one of the reasons I hired him.  I was never going to do the hours of cardio a day like you read so many others doing and he would never allow that.  His training and nutrition plans are clearly written out and any questions or concerns I have are answered quickly.  

After leaning down, we discussed that I needed to add some muscle to be competitive in a show.  That meant doing a bulk and THAT scared the heck out of me.  What, eat above maintenance to build muscle and accept some fat gain during the process and then diet off the fat to see what you muscle you might have built?!?!?    So I trusted Erik, went ahead and did a four month bulk.   I am so, so glad I did.  Of course I had some mental days dealing with the fat gain, which Erik helped put things in perspective for me.  Needless to say, I recently finished my second bulk and just transitioned to dieting.   What a difference a year makes!

I was lifting weights for about seven years before I started working with Erik.  I thought I knew what I was doing, but apparently not.  I did not see as much improvements in my physique in those seven years as I have in the past 1.5 years under Erik’s guidance.   Let me say, it’s not a bad feeling when a girl at the gym points to you and says to her trainer “I want to look like her.”

Hiring Erik was one of the best decisions I’ve made.  I only wish I would have found him sooner.  I not only think of Erik as my trainer and coach, but also as a friend.  I can’t wait to see what improvements we can make this year.

- Cathie H, Lake Hopatcong, NJ

I have always admired people with a strong, lean physique and wanted the same for myself.  I was always the “fat” kid who constantly heard “she’d be so pretty if she’d just lose some weight”.  I finally hit my heaviest weight when I was 17, I’ll never forget stepping on that scale and as I saw 265 flash across the display, I was in shock.  Throughout my 14 years of being overweight I tried every fad diet out there; the cabbage soup diet, the negative calorie diet, Atkins, Weight Watchers, Slim Fast, frozen meals (better referred to as cardboard), excessive calorie counting (of which my food was not weighed, it was guessed at a scoop of this, a deck of cards of that, you get the idea), low carb, low fat, South beach, Calorie King, Simply Weight Loss, L.A. Weight Loss, diet pills, internet scams, those crazy solar suits; you name it, I’ve tried it.  I eventually lost 105 pounds on my own before finding Erik, but not without paying a price both emotionally and physically.  3/4 of the way through my weight loss journey I was diagnosed with Hypothyroidism.  In the beginning I liked to think that my thyroid was to blame for all of the weight gain, a large part of it yes, but all of it, no.  After being put on thyroid medication maintaining and losing weight became somewhat easier but it wasn’t and isn’t a magic pill; I still had and have to work my butt off for results.   

After 14 years of every diet known to man and endless hours of cardio I continuously found myself looking in the mirror and hating what I saw.  I became tired of being sick and tired of disliking myself. I wanted a strong, muscular, and lean physique in place of the “fat cardio bunny” body that I had.  I ended up on bodybuiling.com and I started reading articles on fat loss and then I made my way into the BB.com forums.  After reading multitudes of information I decided I wanted to work with a trainer.  I called a few locals but wasn’t impressed so I turned to the forums in pursuit of online trainers.  My search populated two names on the BB.com forums, one of whom was Erik Ledin.  I went to both trainer’s websites and requested information. After much research and a quick response from Erik I decided that he was the one I wanted to train with.  So thus began my journey with Lean Bodies Consulting in May 2008.  

The decision to train with Erik is bar far one of the best decisions I have ever made.  

After filling out all paperwork I anxiously awaited to receive my first nutrition/training plan from Erik.  I must have checked my email 100 times a day waiting on it; I was like a kid at Christmas.  Erik had told me in the beginning that I wouldn’t be eating any foods I didn’t like; this was a new concept to me.  I couldn’t believe I was going to be eating foods that I actually liked; a sane way to achieve results, really? No more bland tuna, iceberg lettuce, and no carbs?  Needless to say, my view of nutrition and training was somewhere out in left field.  I had this bass-ackward notion that cardio/exercise was first and foremost the most important part of the equation and that you had to eat crazy “diet food” to achieve that lean physique and if you messed up or binged then you did more cardio to burn it all off!  Well, I quickly found out that is not how it’s done.

I quickly adjusted to the nutrition, enjoying this “diet food”, if you can call it that.  I must admit I wondered in the beginning how this was going to work, eating rice, potatoes, beef, oatmeal, and do I dare say it… a free meal?  I started delving into Erik’s blogs and reading anything he had written, that’s when I came across “The Paper Towel Analogy” http://leanbodiesconsulting.com/blog/the-paper-towel-analogy/  and realized that I must trust him and the process (this wasn’t an easy feat for me, I can be a control freak); much to my amazement Erik was correct, imagine that?  

There were times when temptation would strike and I’d give in and then there were those times when life just throws you a curve ball I found myself trying to make the best choices possible, but yet in my mind I was still falling short.  This is something that I expressed to Erik in my Biweeklies and his response was “While keeping the 'bar' high is good, don't beat yourself up. Think lifestyle, not diet. In that context, you're improving in a very well rounded way.”  I took what he said to heart.  Beating my self up over every little thing was something I’ve been guilty of doing over and over and consequently it has kept me from making progress in the past.  I have come a long way by taking those words to heart and making a conscience effort to pay attention to when I’m beating myself up; it has been very freeing!

I started my training with a ton of energy and motivation.  I had never trained like this before.  The first week of training went great, but the soreness; well I’ve never experienced anything like it before, I felt muscles I never knew I had.  When I looked at the training and realized that my cardio was minimal I kind of panicked and wondered how results would come with such little cardio?  Again, I told myself trust your trainer; this was something I would tell myself over and over in the coming months.  Week after week I found myself getting stronger, faster, and tighter!   

Gone were the days of endless cardio and diets that were doomed to fail by binge eating and then running out for seemingly endless cardio sessions to try and compensate.  I am like a kid at Christmas when waiting for my updates; I am always excited to see what he has in store for me, even if I can hardly move 24-48 hours later.  

Working with Erik has been monumental to me and looking back over the past two years I have become substantially healthier physically, physiologically, and emotionally. Erik helped me reach my all time lowest weight of 127; I never in a million years thought this was possible and was even told by doctors that I would never weigh less than 150 because of my thyroid.  In addition, I know that my husband is extremely grateful to Erik; because of him I now lead a normal balanced life.  Gone are the meltdowns because a few clothes don’t fit, gone are the days of non stop movement “cardio in hubby’s terms”, and gone is the depression that came from the random number generator being up a couple of pounds.

I have much appreciation and gratitude for Erik; he has been patient and a huge encourager to me as he’s walked me through the absolute toughest nine months of my life.  When my dad passed away suddenly last June I was catapulted into emotions I’ve never experienced and the extreme stress of it all took its toll on my health.  My weight loss stopped, my thyroid got out of kilter, and my cortisol levels among a tirade of other issues surfaced.  I could not have been blessed with a better trainer, nutritionist, and coach

Erik, thank you for all you have done, for your patience and for setting me straight, and not being easy on me when you know I’m capable of more.  I look forward to everything that I know I can and will accomplish with you as my coach and trainer.  

In my opinion Erik is by far the best in his field.  If you’re looking for real results then you need a trainer and coach with a real life view.  Not another fad diet and food that you don’t like.  So what are you waiting for, email LBC now!

“Perseverance is not a long race; it is many short races one after the other” – Walter Elliot –

Sincerely,
Carrie Luster, Brandon, MS

The Beginning

To understand my appreciation for Erik and what he has done for me you first need to understand what I have experienced in the past. I began training for figure competitions over 6 years ago. From 2004-2009 I went through several trainers who ranged from the “local go-to experts” to nationally known “Gurus”. Working with these trainers I took pride in the fact that I would follow their directives “TO THE LETTER”. I was a trainer’s “Ideal” client. In the beginning I never questioned the endless hours of cardio like a hamster on a wheel, nor did I question the unhealthy diets as I assumed there was sound reasoning behind them. I also never questioned the old school training programs as I thought this was the way to develop my physique as a competitor. As time went by I began to have problems and issues with my progress and overall health. There always seemed to be something missing. These caused me to question and eventually leave the local trainers and seek the advice from the national “Gurus”. I researched and decided to hire one of the biggest “Gurus” in the industry. While the personalities of the “Guru” trainers varied their approach to diets and training was very similar to the local trainers. Unbeknownst to me this actually compounded my health problems greatly.

Although I had tremendous success as an amateur and eventually earned my IFBB pro card in 2008 it came at a very heavy price.

Thousands of hours of endless cardio, unhealthy diets, training regimens that were “archaic” at best & poor advice from trainers who had “Don’t think just do” attitudes over the course of 5 years paid a heavy toll on my life. I had developed severe metabolic damage  and began to have temporary memory loss & fainting sensations towards the end of this rollercoaster ride with these so-called trainers.  My personal career goals were placed on hold. My life was miserable as I questioned as to whether having that pro card was really worth the price I had paid. I was depressed and saddened at the way my life had turned out.

Leap of faith

2009 was a new year and I figured I would give the “Guru” another shot and focus on my Pro debut. (Can you tell I am loyal and give it my all?) This was an exciting time as now I am going to compete as an IFBB Figure Pro! I decided to start 14 weeks out so I could take it slow and easy and really have my game face on. 2 weeks into my contest prep I started experiencing memory loss, fainting spells and started having serious health issues. When I questioned the “Guru” with what was happening I was told to “Don’t think just do” and my issues were ignored. That was when the proverbial straw broke the camel’s back. I had had enough and made a very gutsy decision to fire the “Guru” trainer. What to do? I ran through many questions through my mind. Do I quit and not compete at this show? Do I complete the prep on my own? Do I hang up my heels and retire before I even start? I was confused, angry, and extremely upset. This was my pro debut! This was as important as the night I earned my pro card.

I began reading through forums and came across some interesting threads from Erik Ledin. His threads seemed to be directed at me. The issues I was running through my mind were being addressed on the threads. I sent a private message to Erik and he almost immediately responded. He answered all of my questions regarding his approach to nutrition, training, cardio and contest prep. Everything he told me almost mirrored what I thought training should be. Could it be there was a better way? Could I actually enjoy competing and also maintain a balanced life? Could I actually be healthy while competing? Could it be?

I sat with my husband who always supports my decisions and two decided to hire Erik to help me with my pro debut. Now that is what I call a real leap of faith! Who fires a trainer in the middle of contest prep (6 weeks out) especially for their pro debut and hire another trainer who knows nothing about their body? People thought I had lost my mind but I knew in my heart that this was the right choice. Erik was hired to help to salvage what was left of the time I had for my pro debut and make the most of it. Erik really had his work cut out for him that was for sure! Erik handled my prep with kid gloves and really invited feedback from me. He wanted my thoughts and encouraged feedback. This was how a true trainer/client relationship should be. Erik, really did a wonderful job with my pro debut I was very pleased with him.

The Future

After my pro debut Erik recommended a regimented offseason to repair my damaged metabolism and to also focus on refinement of my physique. Here is what I have accomplished since working with Erik. He has resolved all of my health issues with a sound nutrition program. He has polished my physique with specialization programs that have me training like an athlete not a bodybuilder. He responds to every question I have. Our relationship is more of a partnership of sorts as we work together on my fitness goals.

The most exciting part of working with Erik is I now have a balanced life. I am healthy and in the best condition of my life. I am able to enjoy life! My personal career as a fitness director is flourishing and in the midst of all of this I am also able to enjoy competing as an IFBB Figure Pro! I truly enjoy training and competing and plan on competing in at least 2-3 shows this year! This is what competing is all about. Thanks to Erik I am now healthy in mind, body and spirit. Thank you Erik for everything you have done,

Sincerely,

IFBB Figure Pro
Melody Clere

When I started with Erik in August 2008, I soon realized I knew nothing, zilch, zero about effective training and proper nutrition despite the fact I had already been training for 10 years, but in oh so many wrong ways.  Sure I was weight-lifting in the pursuit of a muscular body, but not eating to support muscle growth, in fact not to support anything except basic survival.  Add to this, insane amounts of cardio plus a crazy competition prep, and the result was a terrible rebound and a severely damaged metabolism.  I gained 30 lbs over the course of few months, despite eating super clean and training regularly. Hence, when I found Erik I was obviously desperate for help.

When I first got Erik’s plan, I remember thinking: “This is far too much food, and far too little cardio.  I’ll never lose an inch”. But man was I wrong! I have followed his plans religiously from day one and Erik’s sane approach to diet and cardio has brought me to the best shape of my life.   Binges, cravings and feelings of deprivation are totally a thing of the past with all the variety and yummy food choices on Erik’s food plan there is never a need to deviate off track.

On the whole it’s been an enjoyable journey and certainly a learning experience. Erik has been there by my side 100% every step of the way, trying to find new ways to get the fire burning again in my metabolism. He has listened to my whining, rationalized any irrational expectations, and addressed all my concerns and questions with patience and explanations. When I make progress he takes full part in my joy and offers such encouragement it ignites my desire to keep going.

My damaged metabolism is now functioning again on full speed. I’m no longer a skinny-fat cardio bunny like in the past but a well-proportioned lean muscular babe LOL.  I’ve made all this progress while eating more and doing a lot less cardio than in the past.  I have a life outside the gym and don’t feel guilty anymore if I don’t spend my every free hour in there. I love busting my ass in the gym and Erik’s workout plans surely scratch this itch.It’s all about quality over quantity, intensity over duration, which is what I love.

I often say that apart from meeting my husband, finding Erik was the best encounter in my life.  I’m in the best shape of my life, the knowledge I’ve acquired is priceless and I expect to learn so much more from him in the future as I enter new phases with different goals. Erik is a bottomless source of knowledge and information.  

There are no words that can describe my gratitude for Erik’s help in my journey towards my best body.

- Ragnhildur (Rainy) Thordardottir, Denmark

I took on the services of LBF and Erik Ledin in early March of this year. I had a goal of competing in my very first show and I knew that I would be in better hands if I hired someone to guide me through. From day one, Erik has been on point with all his information and it resulted in a very nice process with hardly any plateaus. That’s not to say that things were easy, because they weren’t but I think what made it such a comfortable transition was having Erik there programming it all for me. With each plan, there came no questioning or second guessing his decisions, I knew I had a great person in my corner and that allowed me to focused totally on doing work in the gym. Starting off at 226lbs and weighing in at 167.2lbs at weigh ins, is enough said! Erik helped me lose over 60lbs, as my lowest weight was 165lbs a week out. I never thought that I would ever have to lose that much weight again, but I guess some things are done better the second time around. Erik is a guru, and has helped so many people achieve their goals, I am just proud to be one of them.

Thank you so much Big-E, and here’s to barely scratching the surface!

- Chris Chavez, Houston TX

When you’re busy training other people, it can be difficult to stay focused to your own diet plan not having anyone to answer to for yourself. I have worked with Erik in the past and knew I needed him along side me for this recent show that I was prepping for. I let Erik prepare all aspects of my competition prep, diet and training. It was a huge relief to have him make all the big decisions and calculations concerning what should be done with my diet and training.

He truly is an amazing coach! He is extremely well educated and knows his stuff not only in theory but most importantly by experience as well. That’s why I would definitely seek him out again and again! If it wasn’t for us working together for this show, I know I would not have taken home the first place! I thank you Erik for putting up with me once again!

- Sandy Vachon, Sudbury, ON

I started with Erik right after I competed in my 1st Figure competition. I trained and did my diet myself and after seeing the girls I knew I needed some help. My shoulders have always been tiny and slopey and my arms are small as well … never even had much muscle in my back either.

After asking on a Figure/BB forum who they would recommend for an online trainer I had a couple of names to go with and started to do a little research. After seeing all the education and credentials Erik has under his belt I decided to go with him. I never heard of anyone complaining about their diet like eating fish and green beans everyday with Erik and he has a great reputation for doing things the healthy way and isn’t at all a cookie cutter.

I emailed him a few times and always got a response soon right after. He asked me specific questions, what my goals are, what kind of foods I like to eat and the like. I told him I wanted a big upper half and smaller lower half. He was upfront and honest and told me I couldn’t do that simultaneously and told me what I can do realisticly. I appreciated his honesty and him educating me.

When I got his plan I was actually surprised to see that the diet was so easy and simple. Everything on the plan was foods I like. The workouts were simple as well. I expected to be in the gym for hours but that wasn’t the case at all. Hardly any cardio as a matter of fact he didn’t want me to do much cardio. I was surprised about that but glad that I didn’t have to put in the extra time in the gym.

He told me about the forum he created and instantly I was welcomed there and educated by a lot of girls that have been working with Erik for years. I have learned so much it’s unbelievable. They have been very supportive all the way and the girls and Erik have also given me tough love when I do happen to mess up on the diet. That to me meant a lot because I knew they cared.

He is very individualized in everyone’s plans and he kept a close eye on me as well. I think it’s cool that an online trainer will go out of his way to make sure I’m following his plan to the T and make sure I won’t mess up. There were a couple of times where I did mess up and he would let me know about it and make sure I won’t do it again!! He didn’t have to do that but he did!

After 4 months and onto my 2nd competition. I noticed my shoulders have caps. I was so excited to see my shoulders pop out that I had to tell and show everyone at the gym. I never in my life thought I could have my shoulders looking like that. I was pleased. After seeing my pictures from my 2nd competition I actually saw my lats. I never had lats before, never, and now here they are. It’s just amazing what Erik did for me and how he transformed my upper half.

I’m onto my 3rd competition now and this time I’m just going to put everything into his hands and let him transform me instead of me telling him what I want transformed. Erik knows his stuff, he’s a great and honest guy and I totally trust him!!

I can never even imagine going with any other trainer out there. Look at their credentials before you commit to a trainer and ask plenty of questions. I can guarantee you that if you follow his plan you will be very pleased.

- Linda Fisher, Lebanon, OR

Erik Ledin and Lean Bodies Consulting helped me achieve fitness frontiers I never thought I'd reach - I lost weight in record time, while improving my health and overall fitness. This is THE program for anyone looking to reach the next level in a healthy, proven way. Erik was always available for consultation, and the interaction couldn't have been any better. I will definitely be back!

- SG, Colorado

I started working with Erik early 2009 about 18 weeks out from my first show of the year, and my only regret is not having gone to him sooner.

The improvements to my physique in this short space of time have been huge. I used to think that dieting for a competition meant months of a bland repetitive diet coupled with endless hours of cardio. This year that illusion was put to rest. The amount and type of food I had on my diet was fantastic, and I found myself feeling (almost) sorry for my fellow competitors who were going through a mental hell on their contest prep. Erik teaches you the principles of what you are doing and why you are doing it, whilst giving a great range of exercises to suit you and what you want to achieve personally. Erik really works with you and for you and you know that you are getting a totally personalised programme. He’s always right there (does he ever sleep?!) when I am asking one of my stupid questions and so I’ve never felt alone during my whole prep.

I’d definitely recommend Erik to anyone out there looking for a trainer, whether it be for competition or just general health/fitness. (Although, I wouldn’t want to be recommending him to anyone I was getting on stage with! He’s my secret weapon!)

Thank you so much Erik for providing me with the knowledge and tools to putting the best me up on stage! I couldn’t have done it without you, and I can’t wait to see what happens to my physique over the next couple of months to the British Finals and that shot at the pro card!

- Trudy Wood, Manchester, England

When I came to Erik I was different then many of his clients. Instead of needing to lose weight I desperately needed to gain. Instead of needing to get control of bad eating habits, I needed to up carbs and calories overall. Instead of needing to commit to an exercise program, I was a chronic over-exerciser (one of those crazy runners) and needed to cut back.

Erik took me on and not only changed my body, but also changed the way I think about my training and nutrition. His patience and perseverance was able to take a notorious hard gainer and help her gain muscle and drastically transform her physique. I never thought it was possible for me to look the way I do today. No longer scrawny, no longer ‘the skinny chic’, but strong and shapely, with a figure that turns heads (if I do say so myself).

Not only did my body improve, but so did my health. From the moment I started working with Erik I gained energy, slept better, had more endurance and simply looked and felt healthier than ever before. Erik’s talent and versatility allowed him to help me troubleshoot and overcome plateaus or problems that arose along the way.

When I’m at the gym I look around at the trainers and shake my head in dismay. Erik has taught me so much about lifting, proper technique and training, that I feel bad for the clients of the other trainers I see out there. I feel so lucky to have found him, he has ignited a passion for lifting that I never thought I would have. I plan to continue my progress with another bulk this winter and hopefully another few pounds of precious muscle.

- L.P.

I found out about Erik through a friend who had had great success with her weight-loss goals and went on to compete. At first I was a little hesitant about the online set up but soon realized that this may be the perfect fit for me. I am a mother of four very busy children, I work part time as a nurse, and own eight endurance race horses which require a lot of my time and energy. Although I have never had any issues with exercise I finally got tired of the guess work with diets, etc.

With Erik there were no questions and everything was very clear about both the workouts/diet. I have learned a tremendous amount about timing, weight training, and the beauty of "cardio in moderation". Don't misunderstand, I absolutely love cardio ... running, swimming, soccer, aerobics. In fact I could do it everyday. But in order to attain my own personal goals I put my trust in Erik and found out how easy it can be. Everything was right there at my finger tips. I signed up in December and by the end of March I asked Erik if he thought I was crazy to compete in a show in 10 weeks. The catch is that I had never been to a show and was not educated about the ins and outs of how things worked. With Erik's help I was able to feel confident and had a blast at the show! Erik has always been very accessible and professional and I owe him a big THANK YOU!

- Laura Yost, Pocatello, ID

I remember first hearing about Erik back in my college days. Ever since then, I knew I would hire him as a trainer. I did not trust any other person to design my diet plans and workouts. And I did go on to hire him in October 2008, the best decision ever! I knew there was only so much I could do on my own, and being under the guidance of someone so knowledgeable, I knew I would be making the right decision. Also, after talking to some local pros about their training methods, such as removing certain food groups for weeks on end while doing 1+ hours of daily cardio, I knew for sure Erik would be the only trainer I would work with.

I started training for my first show, which I did in June 6th of this year and have never been happier! The process of getting to that point was very enjoyable for me, and reading about other preps just made me realize how smart I was in choosing Erik. I really liked the variety of foods I got on my plan, and nothing was left out. I remember going to a fitness camp while in the middle of my prep and the girls talking about eating fish or chicken for every meal with calorie levels never going past 1000 while doing 2 hours of cardio a day. The list of ridiculous contest prep rituals were endless, and I was just thinking the entire time that I was enjoying myself and making the same gains while eating more food and doing less cardio.

The workouts were equally as awesome as the diet plan, and I made some very nice changes to my physique from October to June, changes I had never experienced before on my own! I began this process with Erik with the intention of stopping the training after my show, but that has changed as I am still working with him and will continue to do so with no plans of stopping. I have seen the changes I have made in these past few months, and want to see how far I can go under his guidance. I have also seen my sister transform her body. She signed up with Erik a little bit after I did, and her transformation has been amazing. It is just so neat to see what a smart trainer can do for you. In total I have lost about 20 lbs and have lost several inches off my body while never feeling deprived and I feel great!

Thank you so much Erik!

- Maria Navarro, Austin, TX

I am 25 years old and have two children. Fitness has been a part of my life for about 6 years now, but I wanted to challenge myself so I decided that I would compete. I had taken 1st place at my first competition, but still felt like there was room for improvement and also wanted to add some size. I knew what it took to compete but I lacked the knowledge on stretching, customizing my training program to fit my needs, and nutrition. My friend told me about Erik and after talking to him a couple of times, I decided that he was very knowledgeable, educated and had a very solid reputation in the fitness industry. I was amazed in the transformations I saw on his site. I couldn’t wait to get started with him. I began my training with Erik for an upcoming Figure Competition at 12 weeks out.

Training with Erik has been amazing. He had an answer to all my questions, supported me, was honest, and not only gave me training programs but educated me on the nutrition side. There was no more guessing! While working with Erik, I lost 18 pounds. I ended up placing 3rd at both Competitions!! Erik was there for me right up to the day of the show. This was a huge accomplishment! I came in looking and feeling better than I did the first time.

Because of Erik’s support and training, I will continue to work with him to maintain what I have achieved. I consider Erik to be not only my trainer, but a friend!

Thank you Erik for helping me with my goals and helping me achieve the body I had only dreamed of!!

God Bless.
- Kelly Yaroshewski, Timmins, ON

I was first introduced to Erik by a friend and fellow figure/fitness competitor, who highly recommended him as a trainer and nutritional coach. After checking out the Lean Bodies website, I decided to contact Erik, as I was most interested in receiving specific training for figure competitions I was planning on doing this year. I knew I needed to improve my conditioning, my overall physique and diet regime.

Erik provided me with a no-nonsense, structured approach to my training, and although it was very challenging initially (learning to manage my time effectively for workouts, work life and family needs), I soon got into a disciplined routine that I followed accurately. Somehow Erik knew exactly how to “handle me”, and after just a few short months changes were very noticable. My confidence and determination and drive increased.

On July 11th, I entered my first figure show of the year as a Lean Bodies client, and placed 3rd in the Master’s Figure Short Class and 4th in the Open Figure Class (by the way, I’m 44 years old). Everyone who knew me before I was trained by Erik said that I came into this competition in my best condition ever. It felt great on stage, and I was very proud. I am really looking forward to my future shows and making more improvements as he sees fit.

I have a tremendous respect for Erik’s intelligence and method of training.I am a better person because of Erik, and for that I will always be grateful.

Sincerely,

- Sylvia Cameron, Niagara Falls, ON

I recently had the opportunity to work with Erik Ledin and what an incredible experience!

I have been working out for years and actually am one of those people who look forward to my workouts. I have always been in awe of women who compete in figure and fitness competitions. I have always thought I’d love to compete, but at 39 years old, two kids and owning my own business, how would I have time to fit in all the training and cardio.

After years of thinking about it, I finally decided to sign up for a show. I was working with a trainer and the workouts were challenging and I was following the diet plan, but I wasn’t seeing any changes in my body after 6 weeks. I decided to do some research on line and that’s when I found Erik. I was very skeptical at first of training with someone that I had found on-line (this is coming from a person who rarely buys anything on line, let alone hires a trainer who I found on-line). I had so many questions and Erik answered all of them and got back to me quickly on everything.

I had less than 6 weeks to prepare for the show with Erik. I was amazed at how I felt after just two weeks. The eating plan was easy to follow and he incorporated all the foods I liked. The training was challenging but didn’t include the crazy hours of cardio that most trainers require. I have learned so much from Erik and am amazed with the changes in my body.

I was so happy with the results and did my first figure competition placing 3rd in my class. I plan to do another one in September and will be working with Erik again to prepare. He is a wonderful coach and a wealth of knowledge on training and nutrition. It has been an incredible experience and I would recommend Erik to anyone!

- Kim Pheiffer, Lewis Center, Ohio

I have competed in fitness and figure since 2001, and during that time, I have had a chance to work with several ‘trainers’ and “prep coaches”, so I can truthfully claim that I have worked with the rest, before I worked with the best!

Erik’s training programs are quick and intense (Oh man! So intense… ), which I found to be both challenging and fun. Throughout my 12 weeks of contest preparation, I was astonished at the fact that I never spent more than 75 minutes in a gym (and that was over 2 sessions!!!), which almost made me feel bad for some of my friends who reported spending an average of 2-3 hours in the gym 6 days a week (which in all honesty, seems about right … until you start working with someone who actually KNOWS what he is doing, and actually has YOUR best interest in mind!).

Diet wise, Erik’s diet plans are just as easy to follow. I simply marveled at the fact that I continued to eat a reasonable amount of carbs on a daily basis, which made it far easier for me to stick to my eating plan religiously! If that weren’t enough, plateaus were avoided with planned cheats and refeeds, which again, almost made me feel somewhat bad for all of my friends who were starving themselves on low cal, low carb diets. (Then again, it’s THEIR fault for choosing the old school type of trainer, no? So we’ll scratch out me feeling “bad” for now … LOL)

On a more personal note, not only is he knowledgeable, but he also really looks after you. Emails are always answered in a timely fashion (in fact, I imagined he had bells and whistles all going off all over the house whenever I emailed him, because replies were always sent within a few hours).

My only regret is that I was only introduced to Erik this past year, as I know I surely would have earned a Pro Card already, had I been training with him a few years back! I can’t imagine ever having to train or diet without his help, but then again that will never happen, as I have found a trainer for life.

Thanks for all your help, Erik! Now lets go get them at Nationals!!!

- Chantel Milot, Toronto, Ontario

I started working with Erik Ledin in June 2008, after a friend referred me to a message board where he was a moderator. I’d starting lifting weights and trying to get fit about 8 months before, after 41 years of being “skinny fat” and out of shape. I was enjoying this new process very much, had learned a lot from working with a trainer at my gym and a nutritionist, and now I was looking to take it to the next level. I knew Erik was going to push me, hard, and I was excited—and scared. Was I going to be up to this challenge?

I was—and it was a very big challenge indeed. Erik gave me intense workouts and a strict diet to follow and at first I wondered what I’d gotten myself into. But I gave it my best to show him I was serious, and very soon I was seeing great results. Erik taught me how to push myself, and I quickly found out I was capable of a lot more than I thought I was. What a great feeling! I didn’t think at my age that my body could really change much, but it could: during my first few months of leaning down under Erik’s guidance, I lost 11 pounds and 14 inches, and went down two sizes! And I’d never even met this guy in person—that’s how hard he makes you want to work. Amazing!

Next I decided I wanted to build more muscle, and I asked Erik to switch me to a bulking plan. I loved getting stronger, and have retained most of the lifting gains I made. I’m back to dieting now, and although I’ve had to stop working with Erik, I will continue to work hard in his honor. His help and support over this past year has been an incredible experience I will continue to benefit from. I’ve also faced a few life difficulties in the past several months and Erik’s compassion and kindness was so welcome. He’s a friend and a human being, and understands how to keep perspective while still reaching for your goals. He’s taught me not only how far I can go, but that commitment and consistency pays off, and that it’s important to keep my eye on the big picture. Immediate results can be nice, but patience and consistency leads to lasting results. Erik emphasizes enjoying the journey in addition to the rewards, and I’ve found that incredibly motivating. I’m a work in progress, and I’m looking forward to sharing my future successes with him. Thank you so much, Erik!

-Jill Shomer, New York, NY

After struggling for fifteen years with an eating disorder I FINALLY decided I was ready for help. The cycle had mentally and physically worn me out and my health was starting to be affected. With the help of my wonderful husband, counselors, registered dietitians, and Erik, I am working on my recovery.

Erik helped me get my eating patterns back under control by providing me a meal plan with several substitution choices. He also provided me with a sane exercise plan, no more hours spent in the gym. I was able to see results by spending less time in the gym and by eating foods that I liked and the best part, I rarely ever felt hungry.

I would recommend Erik to anyone, no matter what your individual goals are. He is very easy to work with and is very accessible. He responded quickly to all my emails and always had encouraging words for me. If you are looking for a great coach, look no more, Erik Ledin is the one you need. Thanks Erik.

-Anonymous

January 2008, I knew nothing. Well, nothing about training and nutrition at least. I thought learning about macronutrients was a waste of time, eating nothing but oats six times a day was an excellent way to lose weight, pounding it out on the treadmill for ninety minutes each night was admirable, all scale weight was equal, and isolation exercises were better than compound exercises. Guess how far that got me?

Fast forward to July 2009, a year and a half later. At this point, I have enough informal education to roughly design training and nutrition programs for my family and friends. I make it a point to have sufficient protein and some fats and carbs everyday. Over the past nineteen months, I’ve fallen in love weight training. I now start each session with compound exercises and stick on some isolation exercises at the end. My PWO meal no longer consists of a scoop of whey protein and a measly 15g of carbs like I used to think was good.

What happened during this time span? I found Erik, and I found his fitness forum, leanbodiesfitness.com. I don’t even remember how I stumbled across his LBC site last June, but I do remember how sick I was by then of feeling like I had to run 45 minutes a day, seven days a week, plus weight training four times a week just to maintain my bodyweight. If I wanted to shave off a few more pounds of bodyfat, I thought I needed to run 90 minutes a day. My stomach dropped at that thought.

My first program – geared towards fat loss – from Erik consisted of weight training three times a week, intervals, bodyweight circuits, and no isolated steady-state cardio days. In fact, the most steady-state cardio I had at that point was twenty minutes tagged onto the end of my bodyweight circuits, just twice a week. I was already fairly lean to begin with (teetering just over 100lbs at 5’2.5”), but I wanted to go even further and see some muscle definition. I was extremely surprised to see how fun and easy all of it was, and the meals I got to eat were yummy too.

The combination of working with Erik and becoming a well-integrated member of Lean Bodies Fitness has increased my passion for fitness tenfold. What fleeting thoughts I might have had last year of someday becoming a figure competitor have now become much more of a reality. I was convinced last winter that in order to be a viable competitor, I needed more muscle mass. So I swallowed my pride, put away my skinny jeans, and really just ate and trained my butt off for the next few months, all with Erik and my LBF friends constantly supporting me along the way.

That bulk did me wonders. The combination of eating sufficient food (still unprocessed, healthy, “clean”), and training correctly allowed my numbers to skyrocket in the gym. My DB Chest Presses went from 15lbs in each hand to today’s 42.5lbs. I went from squatting 45lbs to my current PR of 130lbs. Lat throws? From 10lbs to 45lbs. I never thought I’d be one who could call myself strong, but just a few months ago, a fellow gym-er nicknamed me Powerhouse. How about that?

I should mention that I am a college student. Last fall was my first year. I was initially stressed out about finding out a way to stay on plan while still somehow making friends and eating at the dining hall. Bringing a food scale into the dining hall each night was not an option for me. I consulted with Erik and sought advice from my LBFers, and I somehow made it work. Erik was extremely helpful in providing me with a foods list – a list of on-plan foods categorized into each macronutrient, complete with their nutritional info – so that I could know what and how much food to sub out. And now, heading into my second year of college in just over two months, I have so much more confidence than I did last year going into school about the role that fitness will play, even in my school life.

If you are looking for an online trainer and sick of doing all that nasty cardio, you need Erik. He doesn’t just toss you some generic program and send you on your way. You can’t trust yourself to have peanut butter on your plan because you’re afraid it might set you off on a binge? No problem. You really love your oats and you insist on having it for breakfast every day? That’s fine, too. I love push presses, full squats, and lat throws. And I get them. If you’re in college, you can work with Erik. If none of your peers are into fitness like you are, that’s okay—you can work with Erik. If you like a variety of fibrous veggies, salting your food, different proteins, and carbs, you can work with Erik. If you want to achieve the body of your dreams without starving yourself or working unnecessarily hard in the gym – work with Erik.

- Sohee Lee, Cerritos, CA

I started working with Erik Ledin during my Jr USA prep. I reached a point where I realized my current workouts/training weren't helping me achieve my goal of changing my physique.

Within a very short time, Erik helped me correct physique imbalances that had plagued me for years. Who knew that less gym time would help me achieve MORE results? In addition, he had me implement some dynamic mobility work that I strongly believe helped me remain relatively uninjured. Even my massage therapist noticed my body alignment was improving. And, my coworkers, friends, and husband all commented that my mood was better. (My husband actually said, 'Honey, you can compete yourself silly if you continue doing things this way. You're not a b*tch on this program." LOL)

To be honest, I had some reservations at first about working with a 'science geek' rather than a big-name bodybuilding/fitness/figure prep guru. However, once I started seeing results, all those initial reservations went away. It was hard for me to 'trust the process' (as Erik often told me), but I'm so grateful that I did.

Who says contest prep has to be restrictive and unhealthy? I've done things the hard way (ie, excessive cardio and starvation diets), and I've done things the Lean Bodies Consulting/'sane way',and the LBC way got me MUCH better results. Not only did I change my physique for the better, but I also earned my IFBB pro card and won an overall at a national show. More importantly, I emerged from contest prep with a healthier attitude towards food/eating; in other words, I didn't feel the need to binge or eat 18 weeks worth of food the second I was released from contest prep.

I am currently working with Erik offseason, and I'm very happy to report that I'm within 3-5 lbs of my competition weight, with very little effort. I'm doing the least cardio I've ever done, and I'm eating all the foods I love. I feel healthy and like my diet is balanced. And, I feel like I have a coach whose door is always open....one who is always in my corner.

- Sandi Stuart, Rockledge, FL
IFBB Fitness Pro

I met Erik Ledin though various message boards. I was intrigued by his vast knowledge base, differentiation in training and nutritional practices. I had been competing for numerous years without a trainer, so I understood what it took to develop a stage ready body, but felt unmotivated by my workouts. I needed to add some size, and take my body to the next level.

After many emails back and forth I decided to go with Erik as my trainer. He provides workouts that inspire and challenge me in the gym every day. I have been working with Erik for about a year and have seen huge changes in my physique. I have added some much needed size to my upper body and am working toward the illusive V taper.

Contest prep is relatively easy, but where I see the biggest change is in the off season. I stay leaner and smaller than in the past in my off season, do minimal cardio and still am able to eat and maintain my weight. I look forward to my training as his workouts keep my body guessing.

Thank you Erik for keeping me motivated, on track, inspired and looking great!

-Allison Ethier
Slimquick Extreme Sponsored Athlete

2008 Arnold Classic Amateur Fitness Overall Champion

Fitness America National Champion
Fitness Canada National Champion

FAME Pro Fitness National Champion

Ms. Fitness Canada Runner Up
www.allisonethier.com

I first made the transition from cardio bunny to semi-serious weight training a little over 2 years ago. Growing up I had always been very active in sports (soccer, basketball, tennis), but in college fell more into the running and cardio. After a year of lifting, I was introduced into the world of competing by some girls at my local gym, and I decided to enter my first figure competition in April '08. I hired a well-known online trainer about 16 weeks out to guide me through the dieting and training prep. However, the cookie-cutter diet, lack of heavy low-rep training, and vast amounts of cardio stripped me of the muscle I had put on over the past year and left me a much too unbalanced and thin 105 on competition day.

In May of 2008 I discovered Erik through some online forums, and was intrigued with his approach to training and diet, as it differed so dramatically from my previous experience. We started a long, slow, 6 month bulk in June, where I gained 9 pounds of mostly muscle where I desperately needed it, in my upper body. My strength increased dramatically, and the variation in routine every 6 weeks kept me excited to get to the gym. By adding the weight so slowly I was able to minimize fat gain, and felt great and in shape even at my highest weight. After a 6 weeks shoulder/ back specialization we were ready to start cutting for my April 09 competition.

Cardio was kept to a minimum, and while the diet was strict, it still included "fun" post workout carbs and a variety of foods to keep me feeling satisfied and on track. With Erik's close guidance and frequent feedback, I was able to cut to 112lbs while maintaining practically ALL of my strength gains. So I had gained about 7 pounds muscle since my competition the year before, the majority of it in my lagging upper body. On show day I came out looking dramatically more balanced, with HUGE improvements in my shoulders and lats. I placed third out of nine in my competition, and am confident that if I stick with Erik, I can go back next time and clean house!

Erik is a no-nonsense, cut and dry trainer, who truely has the knowledge to get the results you want. If you are driven and dedicated to following the diet and training program, he will undoubtably be able to guide you to the body that you are striving for. I can not believe the changes in my body and mindset from the last competition to this one. I am beyond trilled with the results, and look forward to building up those shoulders and lats a bit more and placing first in my next show!!
- Kelly St. Jean, Suffolk. VA

I found Lean Bodies Consulting website while searching the internet for new workouts. After reading the testimonials I immediately contacted Erik. Deciding to train with him was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I have learned so much from him. He explained everything so thoroughly and was always quick to respond to any questions or concerns. Before I started working out with Erik, I struggled to get any muscle definition. I did hours of cardio and weight training but never had the body that looked like I even worked out! Erik taught me how to workout smarter and how to balance my food intake. I am still a work in progress, but I feel that I now have a solid foundation from which to build upon thanks to Erik. His programs are straight forward and easy to follow. He has a very balanced approach to training. I recommend Erik to anyone who is ready to take their training to the next level.
- Leanne Rosko Doty, Sun Valley, Idaho

I have worked with Erik before a few years back after my first child when I wanted to take my body to the next level. I ended up competing in two local shows looking the best I ever had in my life, and meet a lot of great people and had a lot of fun.

A few months after the shows I found out I was pregnant and one month after that found out it was twins! I was told right away that with the higher risk of twins I should try and gain weight earlier in the pregnancy so if they came early they would be bigger. I took this to heart and dived right into steak and ice cream. Then at 24 weeks I did have a preterm scare and was taken out of work and no more working out. I ended up delivering at 36.5 weeks and they were two very healthy beautiful boys. However, I had gained just over 60lbs and had set the goal of getting back on stage, so 3 months after having the twins I emailed Erik and told him I was ready to work!

At this point I was staying home with all 3 kids (4yr old and two 3m olds). Erik’s plans were able to fit into my schedule and a lot of my meals were so easy to make that I had no trouble at all fitting it all in. My first goal was to be a size 4 when I went back to work at 9 months postpartum. I was able to do this but I just did not feel ready to get on stage that fall like I wanted to do. We decided to switch gears and try and add some muscle. I was a little scared because I had just lost all the weight and really did not want to put any back on.

With Erik’s guidance and plans I was able to increase my weights and just felt really strong the whole time and was excited about the changes I saw. I even competed in a local 10k race for the first time that fall. Once the holidays were over we switched back to dieting for a April show and I felt great my whole prep and never felt like I was taking time away from my family. I even think I came into the show looking better then before the twins. The things I have learned from Erik are priceless. I am able to look the way I want after 3 kids and I feel strong and full of energy most days. His workouts kickbutt but take less time and they get the job done. I am now working with him to maintain my muscle and size 2 pants while I train for a sprint triathlon in the spring and half marathon in the fall. So far so good.
- Amanda Landrum, Roseville, MI

I started with Lean Bodies Consulting using Erik in February of 2008. Although I had been working out for 4 or 5 years, I was just finishing 4 months of antibiotics trying to get well from contracting Lyme Disease. My goal was simply to get into the best shape of my life. Erik designed both the workouts and my meal plans. The before picture you see was taken in February when I first started with Erik and I weighed 186 pounds. After many challenging workouts and a lot of hard work, I finished my session with LBC at 165 pounds and a 31.5 inch navel measurment.

That was over a 5 inch reduction in my navel. But my journey did not stop there, I took the knowledge that I learned from Lean Bodies Consulting and started a calorie surplus to gain weight and add more muscle. After 3 months, I had gained 16 pounds and weighed 181 pounds. Once again, using the dieting knowledge gained from Erik, I began a caloric deficit for 3 months and lost 13 pounds to 168 pounds. My navel measurement was 31.25 inches and I was three pounds heavier than after the last diet. The second picture was taken after this diet and one day after my 40th birthday. Thanks to Erik, I’m in the best shape of my life, even at 40!
-Matt Adcock, Dublin GA

I’ve said it a million times, but I only wish I knew about Erik and Lean Bodies Consulting when I first started out in fitness and figure competing. I trained many years with old-school coaches who prescribed to the hours-upon-hours of cardio and the fish/asparagus diet. Did they work? Yes, for a little while, but then my body started rebelling and no matter how much work I did or how little I ate, my body would not respond. Erik’s philosophies work with your body and are specific to you and your goals. Even in prep mode, I was doing only a fraction of the cardio that I was used to. And it worked.

Nutritionally, Erik works with what you like and don’t like and gives you a program full of variety. Yes, you know you’re dieting, but it’s something that you can maintain and make work with your daily life. He adds in cheat meals and refeeds as necessary throughout your program. Just because you’re prepping for a show or dieting for a specific reason, there’s no reason why you should be miserable. It’s just not worth it and it’s definitely not worth the harm that you would inflict on your overall health.

Erik takes a sane, safe approach to designing your program. The workouts are customized to your body and to your goals and they are updated regularly so you don’t get bored. He is also very accessible and open to any questions or concerns you may have along the way. Unlike some coaches, you don’t have to have a set time to email him. He encourages open communication throughout the duration of your program. Your results are tracked on a bi-weekly basis and he provides feedback and updates to your program at this time. The community at Leanbodiesfitness.com is also key to keeping you motivated and encouraged. Here you will find a group of like-minded individuals – whether you are prepping for a contest or just trying to get in shape for the summer, they are there to support and encourage you. If you are looking for a great trainer, Erik is the only one that I would recommend with the highest sincerity.
-Kristyn Hutzell Moll - 
Austin, Texas

Have I reached my personal physique perfection? No. But who has?

I (like many others) am constantly striving for my personal physical perfection. No doubt this will be a lifelong journey and lifetime challenge for me. But thus far, I am lucky to have had a great tool at my disposal to help me meet that goal. Thanks to Erik, I am closer to my own potential perfection. The improvements I have made in my physique and mind set have been immeasurable since I began with Erik.

I have worked with Erik on three separate occasions and each time is better than the last. What I enjoy about working with Erik is that each time I sign up to work with him I know what to expect: I like the routine, the familiarity, and the detail of his system. Yet each time I have worked with him, it has been a different experience for me. There is an exciting element of unexpected. By this I mean there are changes in routines, exercises, forms of cardio, and dietary approaches. And with each new approach and new plan I end up discovering more about training and nutrition and also about myself. And that’s what keeps me coming back to Erik.

Erik has a great way of keeping plans interesting while catering to your specific needs and goals. I love Erik’s attention to detail because I think that is necessary to take a physique to the next level. Erik also has a nice balance of keeping sight of the bigger picture and the bigger goal. He will ask you those questions that guide you into some form of personal growth or discovery. Erik has given me so many tools that have allowed me to achieve great things with my physique. He keeps me moving forward and encourages me to reach for my potential. He allows me to make strides in achieving my own personal physique perfection. For this, I am immensely grateful.
- Kylee Biddle, MI

Always having admired the physiques of the figure competitors and having attained many other fitness-related goals, I knew I'd like to attempt the challenge of making a figure competition a reality. May 2007, I met with specialists at the Mayo Clinic regarding my health after receiving some test results showing concern for the condition of my liver. From that meeting, I learned that although they could not determine how long I'd be able to continue working out, they felt that my continuous exercising has kept my health from deteriorating at a more rampant rate.

This news made me decide that if ever there was a time for me to attempt my dream of competing in a figure competition, it was now. I was skeptical if I would be able to do one based on what I've heard local competitor's preparation was like. I began searching for trainers both locally and online who had great a reputation with their clients, impressive credentials and knowledge of the sport. I found Erik. I began working with him in September 2007.

I figured I would fly to Ontario to meet him and get his help with specific exercises I was struggling with due to some ailments in my back. He also took the time to make arrangements for me to see his ART (Active Release Therapy) doctor to discuss some therapies which would help allow me to do some of the movements. I was not getting relief from local treatments and he was determined to see if any type of stretching or exercise could help improve my flexibility. He made some adjustments to my training and was honest and extremely helpful. From that trip, I asked Erik if he would help me prepare for my stage goal despite my not being "your typical physique" for a figure competitor. He never waived or questioned my desire. He adapted certain exercises and I was on my way. I never turned back.

In November, 2008 I completed my dream. I participated in a figure competition. What an amazing experience!! I was elated to have had the opportunity to fulfill my dream and it would NOT have been possible without the expertise and support of Erik. Nor would it have been as fun without the backing of the friends and "family" of the Lean Bodies Fitness Board (www.leanbodiesfitness.com).

Most trainers do not get as involved as he did with me. I liked the ease of one person handling my diet, my training, as well as provide any resources for anything that seems to stall progress. This is extremely rare; especially with the credentials and experience with people from all walks of life and different levels of fitness goals. He's managed to perfect and encompass this arena.

I would encourage ANYONE who ever had a desire to improve their fitness levels, to improve their figure (either by adding muscle, losing weight, etc.) or to compete, to do so with the help of Lean Bodies Consulting! With hard work, focus and determination, nothing is unattainable.

- MaryBeth Blair, Plymouth, MN

Choosing a good coach is not easy! I had been researching for awhile and finally went with who I feel is the best decision I've made by signing with Erik Ledin of Lean Bodies Consulting. A good coach makes a world of a difference especially when it comes to competing. I chose Erik because of the great feedback I had found online. I wanted someone who was going to look out for me and not do whatever crazy antics it takes to get me on stage and then forget about me or my health! There is life after a competition! This was my 4th show and I wanted to bring my very best.

I have been working with Erik for close to 3 mos now. In this short time I have gained a wealth of knowledge from how to utilize my time better, train smarter and all with minimal cardio. The diet was the best! You won't hear those words uttered from the mouths of competitors too often if at all! I had variety and never did I feel that I was starving or felt the need to stray off plan. I was beyond happy with how I looked on my big day! This has been by far the best prep I've done and where I actually enjoyed the entire process. I was able to come in much leaner on WAY less cardio and MORE carbs. I look forward to continue working with Erik and LBC with not just my preps but my off season as well.
- Amy Marable, Florida

I would like to thank Erik for providing me with the tools and techniques to achieve the goal of having my pre-baby body back. I was so skeptical about doing any time of diets and my good friend Amy referred me to Erik. To me, my results have been amazing over the short five months. I'm nearly at 30 lbs and I've dropped 10 inches off my waist. After my 2nd child I was sure that the clothes I stashed in the back of my closet would never fit again. I have learned that what I eat is a part of my daily routine along with the work outs. What I have learned in the past few months is phenomenal information. It has made me a better person on the inside and out. Thank you to Amy for inspiring me and thank you Erik for providing me with tool to make it possible to achieve my goal!
- Melinda Phelps, Blackfoot, Idaho

I worked with Erik Ledin for a little over a year. I made the decision to hire him when I finally reached a point of frustration where I was just miserable. I thought that I was doing everything right. I thought that I was choosing the right foods, and I thought my training was dead on. I would look in the mirror and think "why don't I look the way that I should?" I felt like I should have the body I wanted because I was working so hard at it. It wasn't until I was a few weeks into my plan with Erik that I realized that what I had been doing was overtraining my body, and I wasn't as careful with my my food as I should have been. In fact, I didn't even own a food scale until I hired him. 

Over the course of 14 months, I went through two cutting cycles and one bulking cycle. Let me just say that the veil has been lifted from my eyes, and I get it now. I feel like a door to this amazing new world has been opened up to me. I learned how to train effectively, which was shocking for me to realize how ineffectively I was training. I would do squats, but I wasn't going down any where near far enough, and I was deadlifting completely wrong. I also learned how to look at food as fuel for my body instead of something that only pleases me. I was still able to eat yummy food, and not feel like I was starving. I learned how to lose fat the healthy way, and also I learned how to gain muscle the healthy way as well. I love that other people can now see how hard I have worked, instead of me just telling them how hard I have been working. 

I now live in a completely different world than before. The knowledge I gained from working with Erik is something that I will be able to carry with me for the rest of my life. I feel like I'm in this secret club, where only the members know the real truth about training and nutrition. If you are thinking about hiring Erik to help you reach your fitness goals, don't hesitate for one minute. Do this for yourself! It will be the best decision you will ever make.
- Jennifer Meyer, Colorado Springs, CO

I am excited to share with you that your workout and diet program that was specific to my goals has succeeded beyond my expectations. Your program has worked while others have failed. With your weekly updates to help me follow your plan, I was able to stay on track to a outstanding fitness level. 

What helps make the "dieting" easier for me is that you were able to incorporate foods that I like in my diet plan as well as help me monitor my calorie intake. Your exercise program was able to target specific parts of my body and your targeted routine allowed me time to recover one part of my body while I worked on another part of my body.

You are a great resource and support tool. Your program is a complete package to being fit and looking great!

Thank you, 

- Lynette Lezotte, West Branch, MI

They all said it couldn't be done. I could ramble on with a million words but I think my pictures say it all. Wow! My fat-loss journey began about six years ago trying to get 'in shape' two years after the birth of our 5th son. Never in my wildest dreams did I think my efforts would lead me to where I am today. Upon the advice of my friend Marianne, I came to Erik for help. She said if anyone can get you where you want to be, it would be Erik. I did some research and found that your reputation as a Physique Specialist preceded you and although I was nervous about working with someone online that I'd never met, I decided to move forward.
We have been working together now as coach/client for well over 2 years. I have to say I'm just as excited to be working with you today as I was the day my plan first a rrived (ON my birthday). You have been there, with me, through the exercise routines, cuts, specializations, etc. The results achieved through each of the plans and pha ses made it easy to stay on plan. I really LOVE that I didn't and don't have to think about ANYTHING! The plans contain all the details. There was nothing else to do bu t execute and follow through.

Here we are today looking at the best me I have seen yet. You helped me go from ho hum to WOW. Not only am I physically fit and stronger but I'm also mentally even fitter and stronger too! You can't imagine how I feel when I walk past a mirror and do a double take as I stare at my reflection in disbelief. Reality STILL hasn't set in. This IS really ME.

It's time for maintenance now but I'm already making plans to see what else we can accomplish together going forward. At 46 years old, a busy mom of five, wife to my high school sweetie and a preschool teacher, I am the leanest, fittest, best me that I could have ever imagined. I wouldn't be here without you Thank you!
- Ileen Natic, Alpharetta, GA

I found Erik through his website and forum online when I was struggling through my first figure contest prep. I had hired a different online trainer to do my diet and training for my first show, but soon realized her way of prepping wasn't for me. I had gotten into weight training and fitness to be healthy, and I knew what I was doing to my body -- hours of cardio, extremely low carbohydrates, very little rest -- wasn't healthy. Erik gave me some advice to make it through my competition, and I knew that next time I did a show, I'd work with him.

This spring, after struggling with weight gain post-contest, but eager to compete again, I began working with Erik. I had seen the testimonials, the before and after pictures, and I knew that even though I had a lot of fat to lose, Erik could get me where I needed to be by the time I stepped on stage. I put my complete faith in him, followed his plan as close to 100 percent as possible, and he certainly delivered. I competed in my first national figure competition (North Americans) feeling and looking better than I had ever looked before,and even brought home a trophy -- taking 5th place in my class. The results exceeded all my expectations, and I couldn't have been more thrilled.

Even more amazing than my results was the ease of the prep. I lost 20 pounds and 20 inches in just 14 weeks, with minimal cardio, a good variety and quantity of food and great energy. Unlike the year before, when I felt like a zombie most days, I felt great on Erik's plan. There were no extreme cravings. I didn't dread my workouts. In fact, I enjoyed being in the gym and felt like myself! No matter what, dieting means being hungry, but the hunger was manageable, and I was dropping the weight at a steady pace. Most importantly, I felt healthy throughout the 14 weeks. I didn't need to go to extremes, take supplements, or train hours a day to get lean enough for stage. Through Erik's sensible and scientific approach, I was able to shed the fat, maintain my muscle mass, and bring it all together to present to the judges.

With Erik's help, I far exceeded my goals for this competitive season, and I look forward to continuing to work with him as I continue competing. Without Erik, and without his way of prepping for a competition that's manageable, enjoyable, and actually keeps competing as a hobby -- not something that takes over your life -- I probably wouldn't have stepped on stage again. Now I look forward to continued success in the sport. Thank you Erik.
-Lisa Peper, Old Hickory, TN

I wanted to thank you for the type of training and nutritional plan that you provided for me. I did not realize the impact it would have on my life. I think that the leanbodiesfitness.com forum also played a large role. Between your plan and your forum, I was able to educate myself regarding nutrition and training. I learned what is truly healthy nutritionally and learned that my body is more capable physically than I ever thought it was. Even though it has been a year since I worked with you, I still follow your nutritional plan and train similarly to the programs you designed for me.

Today is when I really realized how beneficial the program and learning experience was for me. I am a therapist for adolescents. Many of them have told me that they struggle with eating disorders, primarily anorexia/bulimia. Because I worked with you, I am able to give them sound nutritional advice and explain to them why they need to eat. So far, three of my clients have started eating three meals a day, which is very helpful for them considering they were starving themselves and th en binging. I am able to explain in a logical way how much they need to eat and why. Sometimes clients want two different body types. I am able to help them see their genetic potential and not what society has deemed attractive.

My experience of working with you was a great one. It has allowed me to help those friends and family around me make healthier choices and just understand their bodies and nutrition in a healthier light. However, helping me help my clients is beyond anything I would have imagined. So, basically, thanks for being such a knowledgeable and supportive trainer. You have helped more than just your clients. If you read this quote, know that you too are a ripple and your effects are re ally helping alot of people!

"Few will have the greatness to bend history; but each of us can work to change a small portion of events, and in the total of all those acts will be written the history of this generation ... It is from numberless diverse acts of courage and belief that human history is thus shaped. Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, and crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring, those ripples build a current which can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance". -- Robert F. Kennedy

Thanks again,
HH, Atlanta, GA

Erik was referred to me by Kim Ball. We both were trainers at Fitness Impact in LB. My 1st figure competition was in December of 2006. Going in, I knew so very little about prep, show, diet, etc. Soon after Kim caught the bug and began her quest for info on competing. She found Erik Ledin and was totally transformed. I hardly recognized her. She placed 3rd in her 1st show. I wanted results like that and she pointed me in Erik's direction. I was really skeptical because of the distance and email only communication, but his method of meal and workout plans designed to support my bodyfat loss and muscle gain WORKED! The biweekly check-ins and sending photos is essential to success as well as ADHERENCE! Even with my over-cheating in the beginning, I won three 1st place trophies at the Western All Forces Natural Bodybuilding & Figure competition in Anaheim, Ca! There is no way I could have done it without Erik&'s expert guidance and me finally following his direction.
Forever grateful,

Sunny Daye, Long Beach, Ca

I was fist introduced to Lean Bodies Consulting through Noel Clark. I came across her profile and was in awe of her super fit, muscular physique. I was so inspired by Noel that I decided to set a goal for myself and compete in my first figure competition.

I signed up with Erik in hopes of achieving my dream body for my first show. I have worked out for several years, but it wasn't until I started working with Erik that I started to work out smart. Erik gave me the tools and guidance designed for my needs. He adapted my nutrition plan to incorporate foods I already included in my diet. It was so easy to stay on track with his diet, and I was pleased to see foods that I had avoided in the past. The workouts Erik prepared for me were not like any plan I had followed before. He has adapted exercises that shock your muscles into responding. You don't have a choice; they work!

My first competition was August 16th 2008. As a newbie, of course I was nervous. I looked to Noel for guidance, as she is a PRO on the stage. She helped critique my posing (no shot gun fingers) and was even gracious enough to offer to attend my competition if I needed her to be there.

I had a great experience working with Erik and Noel! They make a super team. I have acquired the knowledge and techniques that inspire me to keep pushing my self to the next level, and I thank you!
- Nicole Norman, Lynchburg, TN

I was reading the fitness forum in my favorite wedding planning site (gotta get in shape before the big day!) when I stumbled upon a link another future-bride had posted to LeanBodiesConsulting.com. I read through the Testimonials on the site, looked at the before and after pictures and I was inspired, but also a skeptic. I had several doubts about the legitimacy of this "online training", who was this "Erik"?, were the people in the pictures different from me, that somehow they could receive such great results in 12 weeks and maybe I wouldn't? You know what they say: "if it seems to good to be true...it is!" Well, with Erik of Lean Bodies Consulting, it doesn't have to be! I am now a believer and joining the ranks of those who say that Erik's plans truly work wonders in your physique when you stick to his plan and you will be so glad that you did. I will continue to recommend Erik to anyone looking to get in shape, but especially those "Bride-to-Be's", like me, because I am confident that I will look my best in that dress and it will be with Erik's help and advice. Thank you, Erik!
- Kaitlyn C. San Diego, California

Training with Erik Ledin has been fantastic. Through his programs, I lost 18 inches and have never been stronger in my life. Erik’s eye for detail is amazing and he reads through my excuses which pushed me to the next level. I have worked one-on-one with trainers in the past and never reached the goals that I accomplished with Erik through his distance-based coaching program. Thanks Erik for your understanding and extensive knowledge … you get it!
- Wendy Cole, Orlando, Florida

Starting out working with Erik, I had high hopes … I had seen the testimonials online and I was sure I would see great results. Being a runner and working out for years had never really given me the body I wanted. Never having seriously lifted weights, I felt like I needed direction and a plan, both of which I got from Erik. I found the workouts challenged me in a completely different way than running did. I was also surprised at the time commitment - it was less than what I had anticipated, and yet, I saw results. Initially, I didn’t fully commit to the eating portion of the program because of my schedule … I just didn’t think I could do it. Over the weeks I began to see that planning ahead is crucial and that having a simplified eating plan made decision-making super-easy.

I’m amazed at the improvement in my strength as well as the change in my physique. I truly believe that even the most driven or self-motivated person needs help when it comes to achieving their best body. I have the desire but not the knowledge to design a program myself. That’s why working with Erik was a great decision for me … he took all the guesswork out and I just had to follow directions. I am extremely pleased with the results and would recommend this true investment in yourself. If you consider yourself “in shape” but are still frustrated with your actual SHAPE, working out with Erik will make you a believer too!!!!
- Eleonore Groth, St. Clair Shores, Michigan

I have always admired the women who have competed in fitness and figure. I loved how strong and feminine they looked; how much dedication and devotion they have to achieve their fitness goals. Being “stage” shy and with a lack of confidence, I have decided that I would set a goal for myself in 6 months. I wanted to look like a figure competitor.

With so much confusion with nutrition about what to eat, when to eat, how much you to eat, I was driving myself crazy. I needed help to get my diet on the right track the healthy way. I had found Erik through a friend, and have not regretted any moment of it! I told him my goal and he had set me up with my diet and training program. Best of all, there was no guesswork involved. Everything was planned out for me all I had to do was follow his plan! Any questions I had, he answered them with great knowledge. I have learned a lot from Erik. He is always there when you need him, even when you live miles away!

I have accomplished my goal in 6 months and I am very pleased with my results. Not only has my confidence increased, I have gained a great amount of strength, knowledge, and motivation. I feel that I am ready to hit the stage and show off my hard work, all thanks to Erik. I could not have done it with him!
- Tiffany Crites, Timmins, Ontario

I was able to get myself through the local competition level, but the thought of going on a national stage alone scared me to death. That's when I decided to hire Erik. Erik has helped me take my physique to the next level. He also taught me how to prep for a show without doing hours and hours of cardio. Erik not only helped me to compete, he has taught me how to diet and train smarter. His programs are not only functional and productive, they are fun and quite enjoyable. His training and diet plans are thorough and individualized.

Erik has given me the tools to build a great body. In the process I have learned how to apply his knowledge to my lifestyle. I will forever be grateful to him for making me the proud new owner of an awesome physique. Thanks Erik!
- Hollie Higdon, Greensboro, GA

In 2007 I entered my first figure competition. I did all my preparation on my own. Not having any personal experience I did what I thought would work best and cut all the calories possible in addition to running hours of cardio. I ended up peaking too soon and after the show had a serious rebound. I wanted to continue competing but didn'?t want the same result as my previous experience.

Erik was recommended to me by a friend online. After contacting Erik, I decided to work with him in preparation for my second figure show. It went better than I had expected. While fellow figure competitors complained about their coaches taking out certain food groups from their diets and/or making them run insane amounts of cardio leaving them with little free time or energy, Erik's diet plans and workouts are set up to work together to help maximize food and minimize the cardio.

The result, efficient fat loss without the pain of hunger or any significant loss of energy. He helped make improvements to my body in three months that I couldn'?t make in a year on my own. Throughout my contest preparation Erik was always quick to answer questions and always made sure to ask how I was feeling. He kept in contact with me daily when I needed him the most during my final week before the show and was contacting me first thing the day of to see how I was doing. I ended up placing first in my height class. Erik has definitely earned my trust and respect as a trainer and I am looking forward to continued training with him.
- Charissa Skuza, Grovetown, GA

Before I found Erik, I gained and lost the same 20 pounds numerous times. I was obsessed with writing down everything I put in my mouth, and spending a fair amount of time at the gym. But I was unable to reach my goals. Then I found Erik. Although, I did have to assure my husband that hiring Erik was a good idea. He had reservations about hiring someone I found online. However, seeing the amazing results of the people Erik had coached, I was finally able to convince him I needed to hire Erik for at least a few months.

Well, a few months has turned into much longer. As I started seeing results, reading about figure competitions, and actually going to one, I thought, why not me? Erik was on board from the beginning. With his coaching, I recently competed in my first figure competition. I am totally hooked, and I’m already planning another for the fall of 2008. There is NO WAY I would attempt to do this without Erik’s coaching! I have the confidence to step on the stage knowing I look the absolute best I can.

Erik’s diet and training plans are easy to understand and follow. He tailors them to meet my individual needs, and leaves nothing to chance. It is as simple as eating what is on the food plan, and doing what is on the training plan. I’ve seen amazing results. Erik is quick to respond to any of my questions, and is always encouraging. I’ve learned so much about myself and that I am capable of creating a physique in which to be proud.

I can’t thank you enough, Erik, for all you do!
- Amy Krajewski, Pocatello, ID

Most people would think that I wouldn’t need a coach, being a coach myself. Truth be known, I know what to do in order to prepare for a show, but having to design personalized training and diet protocols for myself when I was busy with so many other responsibilities became too much for me. First off for the sheer volume of responsibility of my duties, and secondly because I was doing the same thing for myself that I do all day long for clients. It really got to be redundant, and the joy of competing was dwindling.

When I found Erik, It didn’t occur to me right off the bat that I’d like to have him as my coach. It was through getting to know him, and seeing the results he was pulling off for his other clients, that I decided that he may be the best thing for me. It was time to let go of the reigns, de stress and just ‘follow’. I decided that I wanted someone planning for me, and Erik was the one to do it.

Erik’s plans are simple, effective and easy to follow. He coaches much like I do, requiring detailed stats on all training and diet details. Pictures are a huge part of effective and attentive coaching, particularly from a distance. I felt secure knowing that Erik could see my body changes, and make adjustments as needed to keep me getting more and more lean toward my show date. Through Erik’s coaching, I was able to get the leanest I have ever become in my life. I trust him with my body implicitly.

I am a coach yes, but we all need fine tuning and none of us know it all. Erik is definitely the best coach for me, and I’m hanging on to him forever.
- Jen Heath, Idaho Falls, ID
  NGA Pro Bodybuilder

After competing in some local level figure competitions and not placing as well as I had hoped, I was looking for a trainer who could help me get to the next level. I had done the majority of my prep for previous shows based on the advice of other local competitors and what I was reading on the Internet and some fitness forums. I was referred to Erik by one of his clients, Noel Clark. My goals were simple, but I knew I needed the right nutrition and workouts to get me where I wanted to be.

Working with Erik was an eye opening experience. His workouts were hard and heavy - which I loved! I was so tired of being told that I needed to lift light weight with high reps to "tone up". With Erik, I got to lift heavy and get strong- all while losing body fat and getting smaller. Gone were the days of endless treadmill walking morning, noon, and night. The diet was not nearly as restrictive as many of the diets I had heard about through other competitors. That doesn't mean it was easy. Erik made me see that there were no shortcuts and that I had to be accountable for my actions, both in the gym, and at the table.

With Erik's guidance, I was able to step on stage looking better that I had ever imagined. I was actually able to enjoy the journey because I knew I was in the hands of a very knowledgeable and capable trainer. I would highly recommend Lean Bodies Consulting to anyone who is looking for results and ready to make some serious changes in their physique. I know from my experience that if you are willing to put in the time and work, you will see the rewards! Thanks Erik!
- Brooke Hembree, Pensacola, Florida

I contacted Erik Ledin in hopes of reshaping my body for an upcoming vacation, and reshape he did. Not only did Erik reshape my body, but also my mind. He helped me realize that it's okay not to spend hours in the gym, or to live off of a minimal diet. My vacation came and went, and I enjoyed my progress so much that I continued working with Erik for several more months. Erik's plans are very detailed and are tailored for each individual. If you work your plan, your plan will work for you. Erik is very knowledgeable, and willing to answer any and all questions you have (and I had plenty). I feel that Erik has helped me lay a foundation for a lifestyle that I will maintain from now on. I thank him for all the help, guidance and support he has given me.
- Jill D., Mechanicsville, Maryland

Before I started working with Erik I was so frustrated with my body, my weight and my diet. I spent more time in the gym than anyone I knew and I always would try to eat "healthy", but I wasn't seeing any improvements and I felt so stuck. Looking back at my struggles from what I know now, I was doing a lot of things wrong by focusing too much on cardio and not eating enough during the day, which would cause me to eat too much at night. Working with Erik has not only taught me a much more effective way of working out but I have also learned a lot about proper nutrition and how to set up a nutritional plan for fat loss. The plans from Erik were very detailed and were tailored to my goals and lifestyle. Basically Erik gives you all the tools you need for success - all you need to do is make sure you are following the plans. I never would have thought that my body would react so quickly, in the first month I lost 10 inches, something I had been trying to achieve for years. Overall, I have seen more results working with Erik for 5 months than I have ever gotten on my own and I feel that I now have the knowledge and confidence to reach my goals. I would definitely recommend working with Erik to anyone who is struggling to reach their goals or anyone who wants to take their physique to the next level. Thanks Erik!
- Ashley R, Brooklyn Center, MN

Well, I am your average professional working mother just trying to get the best out of life and feel good about myself. When I first consulted Erik Ledin I felt somewhat uncomfortable with my body and just needed some help to achieve my goal of fat loss whilst maintaining as much muscle mass as possible.

Erik's plan was professional, balanced, and easy to follow. Above all, it considered my individual needs and catered to my numerous food allergies and intolerances. My training program was such that my strength has increased in some lifts as much as 110%. I am the strongest I have ever been in my entire life and I have been lifting weights for years. I learned new exercises in training and was reminded of others that I thought were not that effective, much to my surprise how wrong I could be. The way my program was structured taught me how to get the most out of these new exercises and helped me to implement my own program for the future.

My cardiovascular fitness is incredible even considering my severe asthma and the little cardio training I have been doing on my plan.

My nutrition plan was easy to follow and included all the foods I like and could eat. I learned how to effectively incorporate cheat meals, cheat days and re-feeds into my diet. Concepts that I was familiar with but never really sure of how to implement.

I am now at a body fat level that I feel very comfortable with, even with little change in my scale weight. I feel confident in the gym, in my clothes and generally within myself.
I want to thank you for your experience, your expertise and your professionalism. I have learned a lot and hopefully can take what I have gained and maintain my results.

I highly recommend Lean Bodies Consulting to help you get to the next level with your training and fitness goals.
- Lisa Vaughan, Tasmania, Australia

I found Erik Ledin after being directed to a fitness forum, which I found was run by him. I thought I had a solid base of knowledge on program tailoring and dieting, but after many forum discussions, and lots of reading, I was intrigued by the wealth of cutting edge information and techniques that Erik employs and recommends. I could see and talk to the people whose bodies were Erik's works of art, and the ideas and concepts just made sense. So as I chose my date for my first figure competition, I also chose to have Erik as my coach.

I had the privilege of spending three intensive months training with Erik, and I truly began to feel like an athlete. I pushed myself to the limits, and strove to achieve 100% dietary compliance. Although I was officially in a leaning out phase, I felt my body begin to grow stronger and more efficient in various exercises. My program addressed everything from warming up properly and weight training, to cardiovascular health, weight loss, and nutrition. You may not be able to see Erik face to face but I still feel like he was there coaching me the whole time. If I had questions, comments, or concerns, he was available.

I fully recommend Erik of Lean Bodies Consulting to you if you are willing to work a serious program and follow the guidelines as he lays out. You too, will see your body morphing with every check in and update.
- Rebecca, Springfield, IL

I started working with Erik Ledin to prep for my first two figure competitions. I learned so much about nutrition and how it is a vital part of creating the physique that you want. The eating plans were very straight forward and simple to understand. If you do what the plan lays out, you will see results. However, no plan will work if you aren't willing to follow the program. If you are committed to change, you will have success and Erik's guidance will get you there in a healthy way. I was very nervous about the final few weeks of contest prep, but Erik's plan made it easier because I wasn't starving and I wasn't doing hours and hours of cardio. My schedule is too busy to fit in two plus hours of cardio a day like I have seen some girls do. My workouts were built around the time of day that worked for me ... no schedule upheaval. When I look at pictures of myself I really have a hard time believing that it is me. At age 38, with two kids, I am truly in the best shape of my life and I look better than I ever imagined and I was rewarded with a 2nd place finish in my second figure show.
- Sherry McKinstrey, Pella, IA

I was a high-level gymnast for 15 years, and now I'm a personal trainer / fitness professional. So, of course, fitness is important to me, working out is a big part of my life, and I've spent a good deal of time learning and studying effective fat loss techniques. But, when I decided to do my very first figure competition, I could only get myself so far.

I found Erik and was immediately impressed by his scientific-based knowledge. I could completely understand the reasons for his training and nutritional strategies - and I was grateful to find someone who didn't employ the same old, prehistoric, unnecessary fat loss techniques for figure/bodybuilding competitors (and fat loss in general). I was also very impressed by his arsenal of transformations on the Lean Bodies Consulting website. It was obvious that this guy knew what he was doing.

I needed someone to take me to the next level - to be involved with every detail of my diet and training program - and I decided that Erik would be perfect as that person. And he was. He told me what to do and when to do it. He answered all my endless questions. He made sure that I maintained a healthy attitude about dieting. He gave me honest, positive feedback about my progress and my potential. He called and texted me constantly throughout my contest day, to make sure my first time on stage went smoothly. And over the three months of dieting, as calories were taken away through the weeks of contest prep, his method of only removing a small bit from each meal was brilliant. I hardly noticed that I was eating less food!

It was very easy to simply eat my meals and do my workouts. As long as I just followed my plan and did what Erik suggested, I progressed forward. And since I was investing my money into his help, I made sure to follow my plan. And, boy, did it lead to an incredible transformation! I constantly increased my strength, put on lean muscle (even while in caloric deficit), and reached a level of leanness that still takes my breath away.

I may have already been healthy, fit, and lean. And my transformation may not have been as dramatic as other clients - but to me, it was a huge change and a huge accomplishment. And I have to thank Erik for giving me all of the tools in which to get there. As well as the endless support and communication.

I wouldn't have been able to make it to the stage without Erik's help!
- Kim Ball, Long Beach, CA

I can't thank you enough for your guidance and help over the past four months. You've helped me change my body in ways I know I never would have been able to do on my own. Not only that, but you've given me the tools and knowledge to come to terms with my eating problems and find ways to correct them. I feel better than I ever have, I'm thrilled with the changes in my body and I look forward to leaning down even more. Most importantly you've taught me a new lifestyle and for that I'll be forever grateful. I appreciate all your knowledge and guidance. Thank you.
- Brenda Myers, Mount Airy, Maryland

For most women (or all women!), gaining weight/mass is a very frightening thought. After my last figure competition in November, I decided that I wanted to take my physique a little further and taking into account the judges' feedback, I decided to gain some more lean mass. I had attempted creating lean mass gain programs in the past for myself, but I had always fell short of meeting my goals. I would end up gaining too much fat, without seeing any improvements physically in terms of mass gains or in the gym in terms of strength gains.

Erik's programs were very detailed and definitely tailored to my particular needs (contrary to some trainers who provide cookie cutter programs). More importantly, I had a lot of fun in the gym during my whole time training with Erik. His programs are based mainly around heavy, basic movements such as squats, deadlifts, bench press, military press. During those 12 weeks training with him, I increased my lifts on almost all the core exercises, all the while feeling great energy-wise.

Physically, I felt great! Most importantly, having seen the testimonials and pictures on the Lean Bodies Consulting website, I felt very confident in Erik's ability to help me reach my goals. He was always available to answer my questions and a great resource of information. Not only did I improve my physique, but I also learned more during the whole time about both nutrition and effective training.

During that 12-week time frame, I gained about 5 lbs. My waist only increased 5/8 of an inch; however, the biggest change was in my upper body (which was the area I wanted to improve the most): I gained a bit more than an inch in the chest/lats area, which was confirmed by my sports bras getting tighter in the back. My shoulders also looked bigger. I feel very pleased with my results and would definitely recommend Erik to anyone looking to make visible improvements in their physique.
- Audrey Segaud, San Francisco CA

For years I tried on my own to lose the same 20lbs with no success. Failed diet attempts and hours of mindless exercise had left me frustrated, exhausted and no closer to my physique goals. When I decided to work with Erik, I promised myself I would stick with it until I reached my goal, and I'm so glad I did! It was by far the best thing I have done for myself. By working with Erik, I have completely changed my lifestyle and I am grateful for everything I have learned from him.
- Leslie Trujillo, Boulder, CO

I have worked out for years, but it wasn't until I hired Erik Ledin that I learned just how ineffective my workouts actually were. I hired Erik because I wanted to lose a few pounds, but I got so much more out of the time I was with him. I learned what kinds of foods I should be eating, and when I should be eating them based on my workouts. I started working out in an entirely new way, using much heavier weights, and most importantly, not focusing on cardio. I came to Erik as someone who did an average of an hour of cardio 7 days a week, but I now know that this is not necessary, even when trying to lose weight. For the first time in my life I got leaner without spending hours in the gym. Erik is great about answering questions and working with clients to design programs that are not only effective, but that the client is able to stick to. I have a completely new outlook on working out, and Erik got my body to a point that it had never been. I would recommend Erik to anyone who wants to change their body composition or just wants to learn how to have a more effective workout and diet program.
- Elizabeth Lebold, Memphis, TN

Now that I have had a chance to work with Erik on a long term basis, I definitely have a better understanding of how critical nutrition and exercise planning are to seeing your body change. The first time I used Erik was for the week prior to my first Figure competition. The differences in that week alone were awesome and I would have never been able to achieve those changes without his guidance. BUT – the changes I have seen over the past 11 months are truly amazing.

Before I began working with Erik, I worked out nearly every day and did more cardio than any human being should. One of the first lessons I learned once I began working with Erik was the importance and value of training efficiently. With Erik, every second I spend in the gym maximizes time and effort. This is especially important since I am a mother to three young girls and cannot devote countless hours each week to training.

The second lesson learned from working with Erik is that nutrition is the key. Erik provides detailed, easy to follow plans – again, a very good thing for a busy mom. Nothing is left to guess work. Not only has he taught me what to eat, but also the critical importance of when to< eat – nutrient timing. And here is where the really dramatic changes are made with Erik – training and nutrition do not work independently from one another, but rather act as complementary pieces to the body transformation puzzle. Training that isn’t supported by appropriate nutrition is wasted, but when training and nutrition work hand in hand, results are not only achievable but also dramatic. They certainly have been for me.

Through him, I have been able to achieve physique goals that I never even imagined possible. With less than a year of training, and only two figure competitions to my credit, Erik was able to prepare me to step onto the national stage. I could never have achieved the changes< necessary to make that possible without Erik’s guidance and I know that he can continue to help me improve with every show and continue to produce dramatic changes in my physique.
- Noel Clark, Marietta, GA

I had been working out and eating healthy for several years, but I was still struggling to lose weight and get down to my goal weight. I was frustrated and began considering liposuction. Then I discovered Erik Ledin and my life changed. I started training with Erik and I began losing the pounds and inches immediately. I passed my goal weight and found my abs! I went from a size 6 to a muscular size 2. My body has never looked like this, even in high school when I played sports. I have walked away from training with Erik with the knowledge I need to maintain my newly transformed body and so much more. Erik has taught me a new lifestyle. My mother was so impressed with my progress that she began training with him also.
- Dawn Schweers, Omaha, NE

I’ve been competing for a while now. I had always designed my own programs, which made me fairly hesitant about hiring a trainer. I figured I knew what I was doing, so why hire someone to tell me what to do?

But the prospect of hitting the national stages again really started to wear on me. I started to wonder if my methods were really the best way to go about things. I realized that maybe it would be beneficial to look for some outside help after all.

After seeing the results that Erik’s clients were getting, and reading about how happy they were with his programs, I knew that it would be stupid not to hire him myself.

Just his initial paperwork impressed me. It was very thorough, ensuring that he could construct a program that would suit my schedule and incorporating the things that I prefer to eat into my diet.

I’ve got to admit, awaiting that first program made me a little anxious; wondering what he was going to have me do. But once I got it, I was amazed. There were things in my diet program that I didn’t expect. And that was a good thing! There was a variety of foods in my plan that I didn’t ever allow myself in previous contest preps. And my workouts were much shorter than I’d been doing in the past. I wasn’t going to have to spend ALL of my spare time in the gym.

Everything was laid out so well for me. All I had to do was follow it. Which was very easy to do. No more getting tired of eating nothing but chicken day in and day out. No more spending countless hours doing cardio. And the best part, no more worrying about whether what I was doing was right or not.

Under Erik’s guidance, I saw changes in my physique so much faster than I ever had before. Going into that show, I can honestly say that it was the best I’d ever looked in a contest. Hiring Erik was by far the best decision I’ve made when it comes to my competitions.
- Neely Tartaglia, McMinnvile, OR

I'm one of those people who has always "worked out" and ate "healthy", but I always looked the same ... chubby. I could never get as lean or as strong as I wanted to be. It was incredibly frustrating and I began to doubt my ability to reach my goals. Obviously I wasn't doing something right, but I had no idea what that "something" was. I needed help. But there is so much information floating around out there, how do you know what to believe? I was also very skeptical about hiring a trainer "online", which is why I researched it for about a year before making my decision. Enter Erik Ledin. I worked with Erik for a year and not only did I finally lose fat and become stronger, I also gained an incredible amount of knowledge. The plans that Erik provided me with were detailed, easy to follow, and made for ME based on MY goals and MY lifestyle. He tweaked the plans as needed to ensure I continued to progress, which meant that I didn't have to do any of the thinking. However, I did have to put in the effort to earn my results. It's not always easy, but Erik is always there to answer questions (yes, even the dumb ones), to motivate you when needed, and to be honest with you when needed. Whether your goal is to lose fat, build muscle or prep for a competition, Erik can help get you there. In the past year, I have learned a tremendous amount about proper nutrition, effective training, and what works for MY body. I've also gained the confidence I need to continue on my own. I no longer have any doubt that I can reach my goals. I look and feel better than I have in a long time and I know that I wouldn't be where I am today if I hadn't worked with Erik. To me, that's the sign of a great coach. Someone you can trust, who cares, who can help you reach your goals, and who also teaches you along the way. That's Erik Ledin.
- Tina T. Alberta, Canada

As a busy mother, wife and nurse, I had little time left for myself. And it showed. I had slowly morphed into something I didn't like. I was always in the gym, running, wandering aimlessly from machine to machine. I couldn't understand 'how' I gained so much weight and didn't recognize myself.

One day, I decided *I* need to be a priority. I had been following some of Erik's clients transformations for awhile. I was amazed at the changes I saw in his clients. There was NO question who I needed to hire. He made it so easy. I answered a few questions, and he did the rest for me. I never had to think about anything, which was important to me. I don't have time for second guessing myself. I made progress every week. Whether it be measurements down, weight loss, or new strength gains.

I could not have done any of this without Erik's guidance and expertise. He went above and beyond all of my expectations. He positively reinforced my decision week after week. In the span of a year, I've lost over 30 pounds and 35 inches. The whole shape of my body has changed into something I never thought I would see. I can do things in the gym that would have intimidated me a year ago. I am strong and confident in the gym. I know that every second I spend there is no longer aimless, but a work in progress. Friends and family have been so impressed with my dramatic changes, some have also hired Erik. Erik, I can't thank you enough. I truly appreciate everything, from the bottom of my heart. If I ever compete, expect an e-mail!
- Brandy Bufalini, Waukesha, WI

I entered my first figure competition at 37. I was definitely lean (two hours of cardio a day will do that for ANYONE!), but knew I needed more muscle if I wanted to do more competitions and ever try my hand at the National level. Enter Erik. A fellow competitor that has since become a friend (Noel Clark ) talked about her preparation - 30 min cardio sessions? Carbs? These things called refeeds? SIGN ME UP (and by the way Noel LOOKS AMAZING! That was what convinced me). So Erik helped me add some muscle for a few months and totally reshaped everything I thought I knew about weight training. I did (and still do) exercises I had never even heard of and have had so much fun with each training plan he has sent. I wait for my new ones like they are little gifts I get to open and play with.
So it was time to peel off that excess weight and see what new muscle I had added. Even in diet mode my cardio was so much less than I had to do before ... my little girl was thrilled that we did not have to spend every night at Gold's 8 weeks prior to my competitions this year! I was really excited to see my new back and some new muscle definition in my legs. I went into my shows (including a National one) feeling like I looked my best ever, and with a preparation plan that did not completely turn my personal life upside down.
Erik has been amazing to work with. I have learned SO much from him and he has never made me feel silly for asking what I know have to be silly questions. I look forward to adding some more muscle this year and hitting the same National show next year with an even better package. Thanks Erik for all of your help! Even though you have lots of clients you have the ability to make each one feel like they are the only one. Your responsiveness and support have really helped me set goals for my physique I do not think I would have had the confidence to do otherwise.
- Laura Moreland, Columbia, South Carolina

I hired Erik with the hopes of dropping a few pounds before my husband returned from a six-month deployment. Little did I realize how helpful, beneficial, and effective his program really would be. I had such great success on Erik's plan that I stuck with him for over eight months. His plan was designed 100% for me, which made following it all that much easier. The nutrition and the exercises were laid out in an easy to follow manner. It was nice to not have to think about what to eat all the time, not to have to worry about what I should do in the gym. As long as I followed my plan it was hard to fail. As I progressed, so did my plans. Erik was always readily available to answer any questions or explain anything I didn't understand. I have learned SO much while working with him. His individual attention is what made working with him so great. While working with Erik not only did I start looking my best, I started feeling my best too. Having someone who really knows his stuff working with you can really make the difference between a good physique and a GREAT physique! Thank you Erik for all your help. I couldn't be happier with how things went while working with you.
- Jackie Brown, Buffalo, NY

Hiring Erik was the best choice I could've ever made. I went from a size 16 to a 10 and dropped almost 30 lbs in less than five months, but I gained so much more! I gained confidence; confidence in food choices my body, and myself. I gained knowledge.things I didn't know about working out and or eating properly around those workouts was life transforming. Working with Erik has impacted my life in many aspects, and I am appreciative for everything that he has done for me. Thank you Erik!
- Michelle Fiddler, Surrey, British Columbia

Working with Erik Ledin has been the absolute best investment I've made toward reaching my physique goals. I started with him in preparation for my very first figure competition and am very pleased with the entire process. Erik does all the thinking. I simply told him my goals and he designed plans tailored to my specific needs and goals. He also was available when I had questions and/or concerns. I could not imagine going through my first competition with any other coach. He not only focused on the physical; he understands that there are mental and emotional aspects also. I HIGHLY recommend Erik to anyone trying to reach their desired physique. I gained muscle and lost bodyfat while in a caloric deficit. What more could I ask for? I truly believe that if you have the will, you can reach your best (physical) self with Erik.
- Blondell D. Oak Park, Mi.

I worked with Erik Ledin for five months and during those months my body completely transformed. I went from weighing 150 lbs to 135 lbs and looking leaner and tighter than when I had previously weighed 125 lbs. It wasn't just the weight loss, but the actual muscle I gained along the way that made a big difference. I actually lost more than 15 lbs of fat. I feel so good about myself now and I know the proper way to eat. Erik's workout plans were great too! I would have never been able to set up a workout plan like he did. I was able to follow the nutritional plans with no problem because it was all food I already liked.Whenever I had a question about my diet or training I would just e-mail Erik and he would respond very quickly. I am going to continue to follow his diet and workout plans since I got such good results with them. I'm so amazed at the way my body changed and I'm so thankful to have found such a good coach in Erik.
- Carolina Carrasco, Coquitlam, BC

I respect Erik Ledin's cutting-edge knowledge on training, nutrition and foremost for body composition. I've seen Erik in action, not just working with others, but the application of his knowledge on MY body, my mind, and my comfort while obtaining the best physique of my life. I have dieted, trained and competed all before ever hearing of Erik Ledin, but not in the condition he brings clients to. Once I began learning his more efficient approach and what it meant to train and diet intelligently, it convinced me to try him out for myself. I no longer overtrained, under ate, or screwed my metabolism and hormones. I began eating and training smarter and my body responded with the fat loss and muscle gains I was after. I am currently training for a competition and place my full trust in Erik for peak conditioning and fully expect even greater results than I've already achieved in the year I've worked with Erik. During this past year, I had an injury and Erik worked with me around that injury. Rather than take a set back however, Erik put the time to good use and I set out on my first bulk ever under his guidance. I did a Shoulder-Back Specialization while I ate over maintenance and put on some visible size upon completion. Erik looked out for my best interest in reqards to my long term health during this period and helped me recover properly. As a coach I've also seen Erik's patience, compassion and pride in action. Erik displays a true concern for his clients success and has is there when you have questions or concerns about your training or your progress. Erik celebrats my successes with me and I attribute his knowledge and instruction for my physique improvements. If your serious about reaching your physique goals, I would recommend non other than Erik Ledin.
- Cindy Day, Atlanta, GA

I started working with Erik last year after I had passed the physical testing and been accepted onto a fire department. I really wanted to lose weight however, being the only woman on the department it was very important to me that I maintained a high level of fitness and continued to increase my overall strength. I have worked with "trainers" in the past but have never had the results that I have achieved with Erik. Since starting with Erik I have lost 20 pounds and have had considerable strength gains. Thanks to Erik's in-depth knowledge of nutrition and physiology I have changed my lifestyle and I am thrilled with the results on every level. Most importantly Erik has given me the tools I need to continue achieving even greater successes. I am not going to tell you that it is easy; it takes hard work and dedication on your part. Erik's programs work, that is a given, you just need to follow them. Erik's techniques have helped me to transform my body. I wrongly assumed that at the age of 36 I was going to have a difficult time losing fat and reaching my goals. Hiring Erik was one of the best investments I have made. It is incredibly empowering to be in the best shape of my life. Thank you Erik.
- Jennifer K., Ontario

This has been a wonderful experience. Yesterday I went clothes shopping and I had to buy a size 0 dress. That was the first time ever! I never thought after having two kids I would be smaller then I was before I got married. It isn't that I am really that small but I have totally reshaped my body. When I first heard about Erik's training program from one of his other clients I was a little skeptical - an on-line trainer? I just didn't understand how it would work. But my friend had such great results that I figured I would give it a try, I had nothing to lose. I love the way my family and I eat now. I thought we ate well before but it was amazing to find out how much the little things we did really added up. The changing workouts were fantastic and it made each work out fun. Each month seeing the results made me want to keep going with the program. Erik has given me the tools to maintain this lifestyle. It is going to be a challenge but now that I am buying smaller sizes there is no reason why I can't continue to fit in them. I would highly recommend this program to anyone. Matter of fact when people talk about losing weight I do tell them about this program. People will say to me "well I can't get muscular" or "it's not my body type" and at one time I believed the same thing but now with Erik's guidance I have learned you can have the body you want but you have to work for it. The results are worth it. Erik is great at what he does. He's a great trainer and a wonderful motivator. I wish him much success as he deserves it. Thank you.
- Jeanette Compton, Attleboro, Massachusetts

I decided to compete in my first figure competition with only 8 weeks to prepare. Even seasoned competitors allow for 12 weeks or so to prep, but even with such a short amount of time to train I knew I had an opportunity to make the very best of the time I did have—. All I would have to do was put my training and diet in Erik Ledin''s hands. I had seen the amazing transformations of others who followed his plans, and I was more than willing to do so myself. I knew Erik was not a fan of endless hours of cardio, but still, I was amazed that my pre-contest plan did not have much cardio at all— and not even every day. I competed alongside friends who did two daily, long, steady state, boring cardio sessions coupled with long, high rep, boring weight training sessions (sometimes even back to back!)—and guess what? I did much better in my competition than they did. Erik's plans truly are no-brainers. Everything is laid out for you. Everything. You don't have to think about anything; just adhere to your plan and you will get unbelievably amazing results. I did.
- Patricia Dees, Houston, TX

I found Erik Ledin with some lurking on bodybuilding and fitness board. I was looking for someone to provide me with the science and information to obtaining a better physique. Regular personal trainers at the gym have no concept about the scientific data behind effective training, and having a science background, if I don’t see the data, I will not believe it (in addition, I will not spend the money or energy to train with someone who knows less anatomy and physiology than I do!). Erik provided me with lists of journal articles upon which he basis his programs—how wonderful is that? You can actually read the front-line research about the three tenants of his program and know where he is drawing his conclusions from.
Having recently hit the big 3-0, along with a diagnosis of osteopenia, I knew that heavy weights and high impact cardio were the best options for me. In addition, I had lost focus with my regime after a few injuries and this was quite frustrating. Little did I know that my injuries were all because I had been over training body parts and Erik’s programs quickly rectified these issues. This is where Erik tailors his outlines to meet the client needs—constantly asking how we feel, and how is the progress going. Yet, Erik also taught me how I could manipulate my body through my nutrition, and that this truly was the cornerstone of any toned physique. My results improved when I adhered to the diet consistently. Absolutely fantastic! If you are thinking of investing in a trainer, please consider Erik. He is quick in his responses, courteous, and full of praise. This was the hardest part along my journey with him—accepting my imperfections. The psychological changes I needed to make in order to understand “less cardio” was “okay” were tremendous, and Erik was there along the way providing constant reassurance.
Erik is not just a coach for elite athletes, he is a companion for those of us wanting to strive for a healthier, better body. I cannot emphasize how everyone should try Erik and his programs—it is amazing! I am so thankful that working out is FUN AGAIN! I know that many might me intimidated because he trains “really important people” but he treats all his clients with equal value. Whether you want to improve your fitness to simply feel better at any age, or train for your fitness competition, Erik Ledin is the secret to success.
- Helen Pappas, Toronto, ON

I had the pleasure of working with Erik Ledin for about a year. During that time, I learned more about nutrition and metabolism than I ever thought was possible. Since I started with Erik in my early 50's, I clearly had metabolic issues due to my age that I was not used to factoring into an eating plan. I had always heard that the worst thing to do for a diet was to cut the calories too low but, until I followed Erik's plan where I seemed to be eating constantly, I did not have the confidence to eat when I wanted to lose weight.
Erik not only provided constant feedback and a nutrition plan catered to my likes and dislikes, but he continually changed the training aspects to keep it interesting and to combat any muscle memory and boredom from doing the same training routine week after week, as I had been doing in the past.
Erik provides detailed reporting forms on both the nutritional aspects and training routines so that he was able to respond to any individual issues I had during the two-week reporting period. He was also available by email to respond to any issues which arose. I found his expertise and responsiveness in an online forum to be far better than that which I experienced in my local gym.
After several months, I was leaner and tighter than I had ever been in my teens. In fact, I had the smallest waist measurement ever without concentrating on ab exercises. His plan proved that which I had read on one of his message boards: six-pack abs come from the kitchen, not the gym.
- Beth Dubois, New Jersey

I weighed about 138 lbs when I started with Erik and this morning was 123 lbs. But it goes beyond the weight loss/muscle gain as I've learned that I can do anything I want to now. If I believe I can do it I know I can. At the beginning everyone was warning me it was a scam. My father-in-law couldn't believe I was paying someone who I had never met, and sending pictures of myself in a bikini over the Internet every two weeks. Now, just tonight my husband (who was the biggest skeptic) had me flex for our supper guest and told them how proud of me he was. The knowledge I have been given is forever. If I need to drop a few more pounds, I will just repeat the first month for a while, but I know that I probably won't need to since this is a lifestyle change for me, not a diet. Erik became to me almost like a pen pal. If I needed to vent I did, If I needed a kick in the arse, I got it. It's amazing how you can feel so close and connected to someone you have never met. For all those considering hooking up with Erik, go for it. You'll not only learn to reach your goals, you'll learn something about yourself along the way.
- Tracey Davis, Calgary, AB

I was completely clueless about diet and training until I started working with Erik Ledin. I had been working out for two years and never understood why I couldn't get results. I would spend a lot of time doing
cardio and not enough weightlifting. I was eating the wrong things all along, and thanks to Erik I realized that my eating habits were all wrong. I was a little confused at first whether I should hire someone online that I have never met but I took a chance. His program was easy to follow and I saw results immediately. I accomplished a lot more working with him for a few months that I ever did for two years. Hiring Erik was one of the smartest and best decisions that I've made. I recommend him to anyone that wants to see results. It was a pleasure working with him.
- Sandra Guajardo, Houston, TX

Like many women in their early to mid forties, my body was changing. I used to be able to lose weight fairly easily, but I couldn’t seem to change my body shape with either exercise or diet. In fact, I seemed to be gaining lots of weight around the middle. While I still feel young, my body was changing into one of a frumpy middle-aged woman and that was where I drew the line. It was time to stop reading all the advice and start to take action.

Deciding to work with Erik Ledin was one of the best decisions I have made. He provided a customized diet and exercise plan for me that worked with my schedule and just as easy to follow. It was great not to spin my wheels at the gym or try to figure out how much food to eat. After eight weeks on the evolving program, my body composition made drastic changes. I was leaner and more muscular and I lost that fat around the middle.

The very best part of the program is I feel well-equipped to manage this lifestyle into the future. The lessons in nutrition and exercise I learned from Erik are invaluable.
- Anne Doyle, Madison, WI

I've been an athlete all my life and had pretty much fallen off the wagon when I met Erik. Lacking in direction and consistency I asked him to help me achieve my personal physical goals and get back on track. Aside from learning how drastically I had been over training, I learned how little I actually knew about nutrition and my dietary needs. I have had greater results working with Erik in less than a year than I have achieved my entire life. He has not only changed my body but has given me the tools to be able to build a program myself. A fantastic experience and a fantastic coach.
- Kristen Phass, Fort Lauderdale, FL

I was a little leery at first to hire someone to train me who was based on the internet but all of that was eased thanks to Erik's encouraging nature and his promptness with responding to my questions and concerns. Erik really knows his stuff! Hiring Erik to prepare me for my first figure competition was the best decision. I saw changes within the first two weeks and I've never felt or looked better in my life. I competed for the first time at the 2006 New Brunswick Provincials and thanks to Erik's help I was able to win first in my class and I also walked away with first overall. Erik is very thorough with his customized programs and does not leave anything to guesswork. With his help and guidance I was more than prepared for my first show and felt confident that my body was in the best condition that it had ever been! Thanks Erik!
- Christie Glenn, Fredericton, NB

I have always been physically active and enjoyed running, biking and aerobics but knew nothing about weight training. I'd always wanted to venture into the weight room at my gym because I knew that weight training would help me change my body composition, which is what I really wanted. A lack of confidence and little knowledge about weights or how to set up an effective training routine kept me in the so-called 'safer' areas of the gym - the aerobics room and the cardio machines. That's where Erik's knowledge came into play. He helped me with a sound nutritional program and effective weight training routine and my physique began to change. He taught me about proper form, along with the sets, reps and rest intervals for all my exercises. I now have the confidence to venture into the weight room and spend much less time on the cardio machines and I'm more than pleased with the results. I'm heading into my 40's and have two children and now have the physique I've always dreamed about.
- Nancy Voss, Kettleby, Ontario

I began working with Erik in April of 2006. At the time, my only goal was to look good for the summer. After the first month of seeing amazing results, the thought of entering a figure competition crossed my mind. I had been contemplating competing for quite some time, but never did I think I would actually find the nerve to do so. With the assurance from Erik, I decided to compete in my first figure competition. With Erik's help, support and expertise, I placed 3rd in my class and 4th in Massachusetts state. Never did I think I would have the confidence to step on stage, and looking back on that experience, I am amazed. Competing is a nerve-racking experience, and knowing that I did not have to question my diet and workouts alleviated any stress I had. Erik's plan is detailed, concise and customized to your wants and needs. Any questions you may have, he answers immediately with clear answers. He kept in touch daily, providing encouragement and support, up until the day of the show. I plan on entering my second competition in May of next year, and I intend to work with Erik every step of the way. The results I achieved through working with him I know I could have never achieved on my own. I'm thankful I found Erik, because working with him for this competition has been such a wonderful learning experience.
- Lisa Ignazio, Plymouth, MA

Having the opportunity to work with Erik has taught me so much about my body, my eating habits and my goals. I accomplished more with Erik in four weeks of dieting than I ever have on my own or with “personal trainers”. I’m now confident that with Erik’s guidance and the tools he has provided that I can attain my physique goal. Dieting is no longer a process of starvation and training has been transformed from endless to efficient. Thank you Erik! Thank you for giving me the confidence to go for my goals!
- Ashley Korobanik, Sioux Lookout, Ontario

When I started working with Erik I had been exercising and dieting the wrong way for many years. I believed at the age of 42 I was stuck with the body I had with no hope for change. I was skeptical that I would really change. After the first month, I was so excited because I saw changes in my body that I had never been able to accomplish on my own. He has equipped me with a better understanding of nutrition and exercise. I'm so happy that I've had the opportunity to work with him. :)
- Becky Hawn, Keithsburg, Illinois

Before I started working with Erik, I was your typical "eat healthy and exercise all the time but can't lose weight" girl. I had tried every diet and exercise plan imaginable but with minimal success. Erik was able to help me recognize what I had been doing incorrectly all of those years. In the 10 months that I have been working with him, I have lost more body fat and inches than I ever expected. I now understand how to properly exercise and fuel my body and I have gained strength, confidence and a more positive outlook on life. Erik is a great coach as he is very knowledgeable, patient, motivating, and you can tell that he truly loves his work. Working with Erik is the best thing I could have ever done.
- Jen Johnson, Billerica, MA

Erik is the perfect coach to have in your corner when embarking on any sort of physique improvement endeavor. His strategies are well-structured and methodical, and his communication is always professional and attentive. Erik's willingness to answer all of my questions and make constant adjustments based upon my feedback made me truly feel as though I were part of a team rather than some guinea pig that was there to simply take orders. And being able to ask questions and learn throughout the process makes the experience that much more valuable. Simply put, I can't imagine someone hiring Erik and not coming away 110% satisfied and sporting a dramatically improved physique. The decision to work with him really is a no-brainer as far as I'm concerned.
- Andrew S., Beverly Hills, CA

Working with Erik is the best thing I have ever done for myself. I have been trying for years to achieve a muscular lean body and to eat properly and thought I knew what I was doing, but it was only with his help that I have recently met my goals. When I wanted to sign up for another figure competition, I was looking into all kinds of trainers. But before I found Erik, all I found was trainers who gave out cookie cutter programs. Erik pays close attention to each and every client and gives them detailed plans tailored to their diverse needs. And the best thing about his ways is that he takes a healthy approach to do so, no unhealthy short cuts or excessive workouts! I have been prepping for my competitions with so much confidence - confidence that I never had before - knowing that he is behind me all of the way and is always there with a quick response to answer one of my never ending amount of questions. Thank you Erik!
- Andrea Pack, Royal Oak, MI

I've read countless books, e-zines, and articles on training and nutrition over the past five years. After dropping down from 300lbs to 220lbs, and plateauing there for 2 years, I decided it was time to do something about it. That something was Erik. Over the 8 months that I trained with Erik, my body composition changed dramatically, going from an average joe body to an athletic body. Erik not only changed my body, but also my mind, he taught me everything I needed to know about training, nutrition and gave me a new outlook on life. With Erik's guidance I dropped from 220lbs down to 181, in 4 months time, and during this time increased my strength, size, and overall musculature of my body. He is without a doubt, a real professional and life saver.
- Frederick N. Langenfeld, Forest Lake, MN

I had been stuck in a rut for quite some time before meeting Erik. Upon witnessing the dramatic results a good friend of mine achieved in working with him, I felt confident that his guidance would help me as well. I was especially pleased with how thorough and knowledgeable Erik was in his individualized program approach. Any and all questions I had were answered quickly and in a most easy-to-understand fashion. The diet portion of my plan eliminated all of the guesswork completely - I was instructed on exactly what to eat each and every day, with no calorie counting whatsoever. Additionally, my training motivation was at an all-new high - I was seeing noticeable and measurable results on a weekly basis, without fail. I really can't say enough good things about Erik, as he adds a much-welcomed personal touch to the term professionalism.
- Chris Merrow, Portland, Oregon

In preparing for my first figure show I worked with a personal trainer and nutritionist from my gym. After competing, felt the nutrition information I had received thus far wasn't cutting it and I needed guidance. I read about and saw the results some of Erik's clients had achieved and was anxious to contact him to get on the right track. I started working with Erik prior to my second competition and in only two weeks my trouble spots looked better than ever and its only continued to improve since then. Only a month after working with him, I took 1st AND Overall in my third competition. His plans have been able to get my legs to respond to losing that stubborn fat. The plans are so easy to follow and leave no guesswork. This experience with Erik is helping me reach my physique goals and he has been a pleasure to work with!
- Kelley Mullins, Plymouth, MI

Training with Erik is the best gift I have ever given myself. I had lost 80lbs and been weight training for about a year and a half before finding him. The weight loss was great.but I was left feeling loose and I was not happy with the overall shape of my body. I have seen immediate results with Erik's guidance and have seen the amazing things that can happen if you follow a clean eating plan and diversified training schedule. I have always enjoyed training hard at the gym.but I have become truly passionate about it now that I am following Erik's programs. He gives you exactly the tools that you need to achieve your goals and it is so encouraging to see progress on so many levels! My strength has gone up and I am learning so much.Thank you Erik!
- Andrea Peters, Vancouver, BC

Before I contacted Erik I had some good knowledge of lifting and nutrition as part of a self-imposed recovery program from an eating disorder. However, a few months before my wedding I decided to get some professional advice to improve my results and to be as healthy and energetic as possible for my wedding. In the two months before my wedding I gained so much strength , lost even more inches in some areas while gaining good ones in others, and had my energy levels almost double. The meal plan 'ok-ed' certain foods I had not allowed myself and I was surprised at how so much better I felt. On my wedding day I felt radiant and so happy with myself and my achievement. I continued to work with Erik for a total of six months with various goals, and truly believe what he has always said: results are earned. The programs he designs are simple to follow, yet if you follow them as outlined you cannot be disappointed. My husband was so impressed, when he was diagnosed with hypothyroidism he also hired Erik for a few months and was able to finally lose some of the weight he gained. I myself have learned so much in sports nutrition and program training design, that I feel confident enough to be able to design simple programs on my own now that he has taught me how to track my progress and how to tweak a program if it doesn't get me the results I desire. On a personal level, Erik is a wonderful person and very supportive to all his clients. His knowledge base is incredible and he is very good at answering questions/concerns when asked. I'm trying to have a baby now, but post-pregnancy I'm planning on hiring him again to help me re-gain this great body he's helped me achieve.
- Sarah Glass, Boston, MA

Ever heard of skinny-fat? That was me. At 5'4" and 115 lbs., I was running 5 miles a day, 5 times a week, but still soft and flabby with no muscle tone. So I started working with weights, but because I didn't know how to effectively lift and eat, I wasted a year of effort and looked no different! Finally, I started working with Erik and am so glad I did. You don't have to wonder anymore if you are eating the right things or doing the right exercises in the gym. Its all done for you. In the past 5 months under Erik's plan, I have been able to build muscle and actually change the shape of my body! If you are a skinny-fat person and tried everything like I have, I highly recommend Erik's services!
- Sheri Leaman, HI

I spent most of my adult life overweight. I am not an unmotivated person - I did everything the mainstream fitness industry seems to hold dear: I ate low-fat, I took fitness classes, I jogged ... I meticulously avoided heavy weight lifting to avoid "bulking up." Nothing worked. By the time I was 38, I weighed 170 pounds and my body fat was around 40%. I was miserable. Then I discovered the Internet. I spent YEARS sifting through information (some good, most bad), trying to find the magic combination that would work for me. As anyone who has done this knows, the "pearls of wisdom" tend to converge, but still, I found it very hard to piece it all together and make it work with MY body. Erik has a particular talent for doing exactly this. By following the principles he so deftly combines, I have finally been able to not only take control of my weight, but change the shape of my body and look better than I did in my twenties. As I move into middle age, I LOVE my body. I can't WAIT to see how much better I'll look next year than this year. I actually look forward to getting older, and I can honestly say I could not have achieved the physique goals I've reached had I not stumbled upon Erik Ledin. My only regret was not finding him sooner.
- MariAnne Anderson, Vancouver, BC

Before meeting Erik, my progress in the gym had stalled. I had reached a strength plateau and was feeling fatigued. Not surprisingly, I was not building any of the muscle that I desired. I was training hard, but certainly not smart. Using Erik's advice which is rooted in science, not bodybuilding mythology, I was able to put on 10 pounds of muscle and obtain new personal records in the gym. I am more refreshed, stronger and looking better than ever. I owe it all to Erik's ability to clearly and concisely explain how to eat, train and recover.
- Daniel Kreindler, Danville, CA

Over the past few years I had put on a lot of weight and was sick of hearing that I needed to starve myself and do hours of cardio from the 'trainers' at my gym. That approach just didn't work and ended up backfiring and I gained even more weight. I was discouraged to say the least. Then I heard about Erik. At first I was skeptical since I was a far cry from the athletes that I knew he trained. However, after a few months of seeing so many people make such amazing progress with him I decided that my time had come. I started working with Erik in January 2006. To my surprise I was never starved - in fact, I eat now more than I ever have before and still lose weight. The training is incredible. I've been challenged in ways I never thought possible and the results are so rewarding. He is a wonderful coach and is always there to provide support, encouragement and feedback. The best thing about Erik's program is that it works - plain and simple. If you aren't getting results, you aren't sticking to the program. Since starting with Erik I have lost 27 pounds and have started to see some incredible changes in my body. It is because of Erik's knowledge and commitment to me as his client that I have had such incredible successes.
- Kristine Campolong, Loveland, OH

Before I met Erik, I had been a fitness enthusiast for many years. Exercise and "healthy" eating was a passion of mine, yet I had never achieved the results I desired. Once I began working with him, I realized that I had to re-learn everything on proper nutrition and exercise design. I have had more success the past three months while working with Erik, than I have had in my entire life following mainstream fitness information. My body transformed and my self image improved greatly. His programs are extremely thorough and he always responds to my endless questions over e-mail, quickly and right to the point. I feel so fortunate to have found Erik, since I am now in the best shape of my life, thanks to his knowledge and expertise.
- Kara Odell, Albany, NY

I had been weight training for several years and although I had used personal trainers in the past, I never seemed to make any significant gains. I just was not happy with my progress and I was not happy with the way my body looked. I was referred to Erik, and was told that "he is the best" so I hired him to create a diet plan and workout for me. I saw immediate changes in my body and my strength after following the workout and meal plan he created for me. Within a few months of working with Erik, I was so happy with my progress that I decided to get him to help me train for my first figure competition. I was amazed with my overall transformation, particularly the last two weeks before my competition. I was happy to take 3rd place amongst girls who had competed before. I would not have been able to do it without the help of Erik. I have already recommended Erik to one of my friends, and will continue to recommend him. He helped me train and eat more effectively and helped me attain my goals.
- Bernadette Lataille, Alameda, CA

After having had a membership to a gym for a few years, I could never understand why I looked pretty much the same as when I started. When I finally met Erik, he explained to me the importance of a good nutrition and training program that was designed just for me. He helped me get in shape for my Caribbean cruise. I was so excited about my results that I had him help me get into shape for my first ever physique competition. I came in 1st place! I have never felt so great about my body and so proud of myself. It was the greatest experience of my life.
- Grace Ussia, Brampton, Ontario

When I first met Erik my progress at the gym had stalled, and I was looking for nutrition and workout advice. Soon after I incorporated some of his knowledge into my old routine, I began being asked by bodybuilders, figure competitors and trainers if I was training for a competition. After initially shrugging their inquiries off, I decided I would hire Erik to get me into competition shape. Erik not only provided me with a complete diet and training program updated every other week, but he provided encouragement and support. I had a wonderful competition experience and plan to use Erik's expertise for future competitions and bringing up weak body parts. I enjoyed my diet and training so much, that I have continued using its structure. I don't hear many other competitors say that they liked their diet and training, so that should say a lot about how great Erik's program is. I've always found that the best teachers lead by example. After talking with Erik, you will soon learn that he not only lives the healthy lifestyle we are all trying to achieve, but he truly loves it. His commitment and passion is great motivation.
- Kristy Jacobsen, Buckley, WA

I was pregnant with my second child when I found out about Erik's programs online. I wanted to work with him because I knew I would succeed in having the body I wanted with his guidance. I started with Erik when my second baby was six months old. I weighed 140 lbs. Now my baby is ten months old and I weigh 122 lbs and my body has changed into something that I am continually amazed by. Every time I take a picture or look in the mirror I can't believe it's me. I have gained muscle and lost fat. I had the drive but I needed the guidance and I got it with Erik's help. I am in the best shape of my life and weigh less than I did as a teenager, even after two children. Erik has an answer for everything and is so knowledgeable. His clients are proof.
- Ariel Barr, Pittsburgh, PA

I can't believe the progress I made in 12 weeks. I have to confess that just before I decided to work with Erik, I was so frustrated with myself and my appearance. This is the best shape my body has ever been in! And that is so exciting and so much more gratifying knowing that I put the work in to achieve it. It has given me a new sense of self - more discipline, inner strength, determination, and confidence. I'm so happy with my choice. Erik is the reason I have achieved these results. He clearly knows what he's doing. It really takes a special person to provide the level of service and dedication he does. He devotes his time and expertise to his clients and is knowledgeable, professional, "research savvy" and very intelligent. He finds a way to apply all the knowledge he has to each individual client; something that can be hard to put into practice. Erik is one stand up guy and I appreciate all he's done to help me achieve my goals.
- Samantha Savage, Grand Rapids, MI

My expectations of a "trainer/coach" were totally blown away by Erik's program. I am a physical therapist and new figure competitor, and I was so impressed when I received my program. I emailed Erik right away to tell him how complete his program was, and how impressed I was by his attention to detail and thoroughness. In the two months I have been working with Erik, I have made impressive gains that I never thought could be made in such a short period of time. I am now two months out from my first show of the season and feel confident that I will look my best ever, thanks to Erik's help.
- Erin Elberson, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Being so lean has been a problem for me for many years, even after giving birth to two boys my body refused to gain definition. While being in the fitness arena for well over 24 years (instructing for 9 years) I decided to enter a Master's Level Figure Competition before I reached the age of 50; I just turned 49 in April of this year. I had received rave reviews from an acquaintance about Erik's 'kick-ass' skills as a trainer for competitions and I decided to take the initiative and acquire his services. My decision paid off! I'm ecstatic with the total physical transformation of my body over the last eight weeks. Erik's expertise as a trainer is evident in the manner in which he put together a proper diet and workout program to meet my specific needs for my upcoming show. His thorough knowledge of proper nutrition and appropriate exercises has transformed my soft, undefined body into an overall leaner and tighter physique; a strong and fit collaboration of femininely (not bulky) defined muscles. My fitness participants have mentioned that they have noticed the lean yet nicely defined shoulders and abs, as well as a fullness in my legs. There were times when I questioned the amount of ounces or grams of certain fats in my diet but it all adds up to, as Erik stated, not only eating clean in the quality food but also in the appropriate quantities. Erik was true to his word, as the results revealed. I started with 25% bodyfat and came down to 18%. Awesome! I was very impressed with Erik's no-nonsense but friendly approach to a trainer/client relationship. He is always easily accessible with any questions or concerns. Well done and thank you Erik for the amazing transformation in my physique. You're the best! Rest assured that I will recommend you highly.
- Angela Reda, Kingston, ON

I've known Erik for several years. During that time, I''ve seen the success that many athletes, both amateur and pro, have had with Erik''s guidance and knowledge. So when I decided to compete in my last bodybuilding show, it was a "no-brainer" to ask Erik for his help. In doing so, I was able to take first place in my weight division. I can''t thank Erik enough for helping me maintain my muscularity and taking my conditioning to a level needed to win my first show. Thank you Erik!
- Nathan Hinks, Mississauga, ON

I think that the best trainers are the ones that not only help you reach your goal, but also teach how to reach it. Erik is one of these trainers. I was not new to training or nutrition when I decided to work with Erik, but different athletic goals persuaded me to seek as lean a physique as possible while still maintaining or increasing my strength. Knowing other strength athletes who had worked with him, I decided to take a chance. I am happy with my decision because in working with Erik, I learned how to apply different dietary methods and how to approach my goal. His approach left room for discussion and individualization in terms of diet and training which enhanced the learning process. To this day I am able to apply what I have learned to continue maximizing my athletic performance while also looking good.
- Manuel Buitrago, Washington, DC

Once an athletic and active teenager, I had been overweight for the last 12 years - and I was tired of it! I had gone through huge weight fluctuations with two pregnancies, and found myself still sitting at 205 pounds ten months after my youngest son had been born. I was having a hard time keeping up with my 2 young kids, and I was frustrated with how to begin the process of getting healthy and fit. My husband had been working with Erik, and I saw first hand the amazing difference it was making in his life. I felt confident that Erik would be able to get me started on my journey as well. The plan that I received was very detailed and thorough. It told me exactly what to do in terms of exercise, and precisely how much of what foods I needed to be eating. It was so much easier to follow than I ever thought it would be. After the first month, I was amazed at how much energy I had, how much better I felt when I woke up in the morning. I continued to work with Erik for 4 months. He coached and encouraged me when I needed it, and answered all my questions quickly and honestly. In those 4 short months, I lost almost 30 lbs - and went from a size 14/16 to a size 10. While I made excellent progress in terms of weight loss, there was something even more valuable about my experience with Erik. I learned how to live a healthy lifestyle. I learned how to view what I eat as my nutrition, not a 'diet'. I gained confidence in myself and my abilities. I would encourage anyone who is ready to start a journey toward healthier living to work with Erik, it is one of the most beneficial things I have ever done for myself. Thank you Erik.
-Sara Langenfeld, Forest Lake, MN

Although I've been working out and eating clean for about a decade, I had a difficult time getting as lean as I wanted to because I have Type II Diabetes and hypothyroid disease. I always seemed to be paddling upstream. Nutrition, for me, had to be very specific and highly individualized. When I began working with Erik, I saw results right away and learned how to best plan and handle my nutrition for optimal results and health. Working with Erik was a fantastic decision and I could not be more happy with the process or the results!
- Jessica Albritton Clardy, Plano, TX

During the time I've worked with Erik my results have been fantastic. I receive regular comments from co-workers and friend on how much I've been "shrinking". My diet has changed drastically for the better and I've learned the drawbacks of "normal" eating. At the gym I have greater endurance and strength. Overall I have more energy and just feel better. With the knowledge I have gained from Erik I know my success will continue and my lifestyle has changed for the better.
- Sarah Sischo, Fairfax, VA

When I started working With Erik I was at a point where my body was not progressing at all. I was using old techniques in the gym and my nutrition plan was failing me. I learned a great deal from him and in the first month of his plan I saw immediate results. His approach to my nutrition was dead on and I loved the new workout and cardio sessions he set for me. I regained motivation and confidence in my body and it's ability to change. I was at a point where many have been and was about to give up. I now feel that I have the correct knowledge to proceed on my own. He was very quick to respond to whatever questions I had asked him and explained things so that they were easy to understand. His approach was very modern and up to date. I would recommend him to anyone and would someday hope to work with him again.
- Amy Riemersma, Apache Junction, AZ

I have always lived a very athletic lifestyle, but after beginning a very demanding graduate school program and having knee surgery, I really packed on the body fat. However, thanks to Erik, that problem was easily solved. In the time that I worked with him, I lost 10 lbs and over 11 inches, gained strength, and improved my flexibility. I attained the leanest, muscular physique that I have ever had. He was able to balance the right amount of weight training, cardio exercise, supplement use, and diet all tailored to meet my needs. He responded so quickly to all my questions, which is such a motivator when you're working with a coach via the internet. Erik takes great pride in his work and it shows. Because he has the education, experience, and individual interest in your goals, you get results.
- Desiree Walker, Chapel Hill, NC

By the time I began working with Erik, I was at a loss as how to get the body I wanted. Since I can remember, I've always been active. Swimming, running, attending a gym were activities I performed daily. And I never completely disliked my figure until recently. I remember taking a picture of my back in a bathing suit and my butt looked absolutely atrocious. I had been weight training and eating what I thought was OK but I obviously wasn't getting the results I wanted. I deleted that picture and decided to work with Erik. After two weeks on his program, my pants fit better. After one month, others could see results. At the end of our training period I'd lost seven pounds, gained strength and competed in my first figure competition. The information that Erik imparts is absolutely invaluable and the results speak for themselves. I can't wait to work with him again next year.
- Romina Dal Poggetto, Anaheim, CA

I have often said that no one has a perfect body but we all have our own best body. Three months ago I was still looking for mine. After years of running circles around training and nutrition I finally found the one component missing from achieving my best body ... Erik Ledin. As a 38 year old mother of 4, I thought that dream was far behind me. I can honestly say that preparing for the Mrs. America competition took focus and discipline but Erik completely took the guesswork out of my training and nutrition. Upon arrival at the Mrs. America national competition I knew the work had paid off. I received compliments daily about my conditioning, especially regarding my arms and back. My legs look better than they ever have in my life. My rear has always been a problem area for me and during our group swimsuit photo shoot several other contestants commented that my butt looked flawless. Wow! I finally did it! Thank you Erik for changing me forever.
- Jody Bernhardt 
Mrs. Michigan America 2006 
Mrs. America Fitness Award Winner

In just five weeks, working with Erik turned my 'so so' size 6 into a fabulous size 4. Not only did Erik teach me that it's not 'how much' you work out, but also 'how' you work out that makes a difference. With a feasible work out plan and an easy to follow diet, I was amazed at how much lean muscle I developed in so little time. I didn't even look this good before I had children! I have six pack abs, muscular arms and I even managed to tighten up problem areas under my buttocks and above my knees. Not only am I amazed at the transformation, but my family and friends are too. I am the envy of everyone at the gym. I am not just lean, but feminine and I am thrilled with my new look!
- Billie Jo Anderson 
Mrs. Connecticut America 2006

A great coach goes beyond just basic knowledge and program design. A great coach is a positive mentor and leader who has a great passion for helping others. They never stop learning and evolving as a professional. They serve as a role model in mind, body and action.

I am a competitor at heart. I could not put my prep into the hands of someone I didn't respect and trust. Our health and well being priorities match, health first, smart diet and training. For me it's essential to be a positive influence and example to others wishing to change their physiques, level of fitness and overall health. I believe a coach and athlete are a team. Together their attitude and approaches to the defeat of each challenge (competition in this case) must complement one another to truly reach and conquer the set goals to my best ability.

Erik encourages me to ultimately draw my own conclusions and then advises the direction ideal to reach my goals. He is honest, sincere, as some would call "tough love". That is important to me, as often times being it human nature (and a woman) we don't always perceive things as they truly are. In regards to progress and competitive potential I know I can rely on Erik to guide me along a rewarding path.

I have known Erik since my passionate pursuit in health and fitness first ignited in my teens. Over the years he has been a positive influence in my life and continues to be. I competed in five figure competitions in 2006, winning my class at the Mississippi State Championships and all with the guidance of Erik each step. The next goal was National level in hopes of earning my pro card one day. I placed 4th at the 2008 IFBB North American Championships bringing my best package to stage ever. I have an ever thankful heart for all Erik has helped me achieve. Together, as a team, we continue to work towards that goal, Pro Card. If you are one who believes in your dreams, then rest assured you will find everything in great coach you desire in Erik.
- Jennifer Hamilton, Jackson, MS

...and then there was Erik!! I had the privilege of working with Erik Ledin while preparing for the Mrs. America Pageant 2006 and I can truly say, without hesitation, that as a result of his guidance, support and motivational abilities together with his diet and exercise program, I was in the absolute best shape of my life for the pageant! I am a 41 year old mother of 3 and for years I was unable to lose those "extra few pounds" and that "little layer" that covered my body after giving birth to my children ... and then there was Erik! Following his program enabled me to achieve my goal of looking and feeling fabulous...and I even made it to the Semi-Finals!! I competed with 51 spectacular women, some of whom were almost half my age, and I always felt fit and confident certainly at least in part due to Erik's contributions.

Bravo to you Erik!! Thank you for assisting me with my diet and exercise program prior to my participation in Mrs. America Pageant 2006. I appreciate all of your time and energy. You are truly an inspirational and gifted individual!
- Lidia Szczepanowski 
Mrs. New York America 2006

When I began working with Erik I had just recovered from a broken ankle, and I'd gotten pretty out of shape. After seeing some of his previous clients' results I I felt that hiring Erik would get me back on track as quickly as possible. After 12 weeks I was not only 'back on track' I was in better shape than I'd ever been! Erik's program was very thorough, all of my meals and training sessions were planned to the last detail, making things incredibly easy to follow. Erik was an amazing coach, and was always available to answer my questions and make adjustments to my program as I progressed. I highly recommend him to anyone, if you stick to his program you'll achieve amazing results.
- Adam Matthews, Surrey, England

My biggest fear of working with an online coach was that I was going to get lost in the shuffle in a cookie-cutter program. In fact, in my first e-mail to Erik I asked him how many people he had working for him. I was surprised that he did all this own programs with such success, and decided to try it for a month or so.

That was a year ago, and I'm still working with him. Erik has always been prompt and thorough in answering all my questions about my programs, and even about training and nutrition in general. More than anything, my time working with Erik has been one of the biggest learning experiences of my life - not only have I learned about scientifically grounded principles of training and dieting, but I've learned through different programs what works for me as an individual and what doesn't. Erik has been encouraging when I've need it and the kick in the butt when I've needed it, too.

I consider the money I spent working with Erik the best money I've ever spent. I've learned more about myself, both in the gym and out of the gym, through training with him than I ever have with the many other personal trainers I've worked with.
- Michelle Bick, Spokane, WA

First of all, let me say that I've been in fairly good shape for most of my life. I've always had some sort of fitness in my life, but for the last year or so, I've had competing in the back of my mind ... never really knowing if I would actually do it, or if I could get lean enough to step on stage. I had tried several times to get that "look" of a figure contestant, and I came close, but never really got to the point that I felt I would be comfortable on stage. I knew that if I ever decided to take that jump, that I'd hire Erik to take me through those final weeks.

Well, I did it!! And it was an amazing experience all the way around. I needed something concrete that I could follow and KNOW that it would take me to the point I needed to be. I couldn't be happier with the way it turned out. My plan left out nothing ... I had everything I needed in order to complete my goal. And most importantly, I loved my look when we were done. To me, that was what the whole journey was about, and in that respect, it could not have turned out better. I would recommend Erik to absolutely everyone, whether it be someone that wants to drop a few pounds and feel better about themselves, to the highest level competitor. I trust him wholeheartedly. He is not only kind and encouraging, but also has more knowledge in this field than anyone I've run across.

Originally, this was going to be a one shot deal, but I enjoyed training with Erik so much, that I've decided to continue through the winter and then enter another show in the spring. I can't wait to see what the results will bring. Thank you, Erik.
- Ali Swanson, Ravenna, MI

So I have spent the last ten years dieting in some way. Even when I achieved a weight I was happy with it was torture trying to maintain it. I had come to believe that the only way to lose weight and then maintain it was by eating very few calories and doing hours of cardio. Last year I hit a plateau at my highest weight and no matter what I tried nothing seemed to work. I came across information about Erik on the internet and decided to try working with him. I was extremely impressed when I got my program. He really listened to my goals and every detail regarding nutrition and exercise was outlined and explained thoroughly. In one month of working with Erik I saw changes to my figure I had never thought possible without starving myself. I became stronger, leaner, had more energy, and just felt better about myself. Because of Erik I now understand what it means to train effectively. Erik was a great coach, always professional, motivating, and extremely knowledgeable. He never made me feel like any of my questions or concerns were stupid and they were always addressed promptly. I would gladly work with him again in the future and would recommend him to anyone looking to enhance their physique; it really can be a life changing opportunity!
- Heather Meadows, Jefferson, GA

Over the years I have tried to quite smoking too many times to count. On the few occasions that I actually quit for an extended period of time I always started to gain weight again. I finally got it in my head that if I gained weight after quitting smoking then I would find someone to help me take the weight off. Well that person was Erik Ledin. I hired Erik in May of 2006 but wasn't seeing the results that I wanted. Not by any fault of Erik's but of my own. I wasn't following his program and it was showing in my bi-weekly reports. I decided that I needed a goal to help keep me accountable. That goal was a figure competition. I knew once I decided to compete that I would stick to the plan. So two months prior to my first show I buckled down and ended up losing 20 pounds and looked better than I ever had.

Erik's plans are very easy to follow. He tells you everything from diet and training to supplements and stretching exercises. Nothing is left uncovered in Erik's plans. And if I ever had a question he would respond with an answer that day. I plan on competing again next year and will definitely be using Erik as my coach! And as of today I have been a nonsmoker for 15 months and weigh less than before I quit smoking!
- Terri Bracali, Waterford, MI

Albert Einstein said that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. So, why did I hope that the same diet and exercise program that I had been using was going to miraculously give me results that I had never achieved? I was preparing to compete in Mrs. America. Let me tell you, there are precious few stronger motivators than having to stand on a stage to be judged in a swimsuit! Getting in shape is a physical process tied to strong emotions. That is why it is so important to have someone who understands, but is not ruled by your emotions to help you with the process - someone who has superior knowledge about the physical process who understands the emotional ties that accompany that process. Erik Ledin is that someone. He provided me with a plan that gave me incredible results. He took so much into account when creating my plan: my likes/dislikes, my schedule, my abilities. In addition, he drastically REDUCED my workout time! I was spending less time working out and getting better results! He did all this via e-mail, which I found incredibly convenient. In addition, when I spent time off of Erik's plan after the pageant, I noticed that I didn't gain weight as fast as I have in the past. I am happy to say that I am back on Erik's plan and LOVING the results! Erik, thank you for helping me deal with a lifelong issue for me and enabling me to feel my best at Mrs. America!!
- Jill Putzier
Mrs. Kansas America 2006

I have always loved to workout and tried to always make healthy decisions but I still was not getting the body I wanted. I knew I needed to step it up a notch and I started by just reading everything by Erik I could get my hands on. I did make improvements but I kept changing things and second guessing myself and I needed to make sure I was doing it right since I made the goal to compete in 2006. I started working with Erik and I felt more confident in what I was doing and saw results right away. I had more energy because I was eating so well and not wasting so much time trying to decide what I should be eating. I love his programs because I knew exactly what to eat since everything is spelled out so clearly for you. I also felt like I had to workout less then what I had been doing because his workouts were more efficient. This is very helpful considering I work full time and have a 2 year old. If you are competing, Erik helps you know if you are ready for the show and really is there for you that last week to make sure everything comes together. I was thrilled with my results and how I came in for my shows and know that I would have not been able to get there without Erik's knowledge and guidance.
- Amanda Landrum, Roseville, MI

I'm so glad that I had the opportunity to work with Erik. I thought I knew quite a bit about fitness, but Erik has taught me so much about nutrition and working out. He is a great teacher and his knowledge is endless. When I had questions or concerns, he was always prompt to answer them and steer me in the right direction. In the last six months, I have gained a lot more strength and muscle. I used to be so weak in the upper body. His plans are very easy to follow and I like that you know what to eat and when. It is a no brainer! The information I have learned will help me continue to achieve my goals in the future.

- Cinnamon Goodrich, Houston, Texas