Y member shows determination, loses nearly 200 pounds

Eddie Yepez believes his determination and consistency to exercise on his wellness journey has resulted in losing nearly 200 pounds in recent years.

Yepez, 25, is a member of the Marshalltown YMCA-YWCA and works for the contractor Absolute Group.

“Determination and consistency are the main factors when you want a change in your health and anything in life really,” Yepez said.

The Marshalltown resident originally shed the weight by utilizing the treadmill and other cardio equipment at the Y, but lately his focus is more on building lean muscle.

He said another one of the keys on his journey was to worry more about his own health and what works and not compare himself to others.

“Don’t focus or look upon others’ routines or workouts because everybody is different,” he said. “You just have to find what’s best for you and what you enjoy while getting it done.”

He likes the Y for the various options for cardio and to build strength. 

“There’s plenty of variety of equipment options to switch up or add onto my routines as well as a sauna and jacuzzi to enjoy after,” he said.

He also said don’t expect immediate results, but they will happen if you stick to the plan. “It’s a straightforward process and you’ll see results over time; it doesn’t just happen overnight, weeks or sometimes even months,” he said.