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For over a decade, I struggled to get in shape, failing at every attempt. All I wanted was to feel healthy, but I couldn’t even motivate myself to do a single workout. Then, in December 2020, I decided to make a change. Instead of criticizing myself for being overweight, I focused on a simple goal: a set number of exercise minutes each week. To stay accountable, I invited my dad, who was also struggling to live a healthy lifestyle. He agreed to join me in this new approach. At 61, he set a smaller goal of 1.5 hours, while I chose 2 hours and 15 minutes. Our goals were manageable but big enough to keep us moving toward our bigger weight loss targets. The key to this new and unknown system was consistency over intensity. I didn’t realize it at the time, but that’s the real foundation for lasting change. We even added a small penalty for unmet goals, which made it fun and kept us engaged.

We kept our word and hit those goals together. Consistency became easy, and every workout had a purpose, motivating us to push through distractions and stay on track. In just 18 months, I lost 40 lbs., and my dad lost 30 lbs. and cut 8 strokes off his golf handicap (which he’s especially proud of).

This system made leading an active lifestyle so simple and enjoyable that I had to share it with others. Seven months ago, I turned this approach into the Compete NG app, which has already been downloaded by over 260 people! I’m excited to connect with anyone who struggles to incorporate fitness into their busy lives—just like I did for over a decade. Together, we can make fitness easier by setting small, achievable goals and making the process fun and social with friends and family for shared success and added accountability!

- Nick Gaul

Founder, Compete NG LLC