I’m naming all my first-born children after Harley Pasternak.
Pasternak is a big-time celebrity trainer with clients such as Alicia Keys, Kanye West, Jessica Simpson and, according to an “e-Talk” clip (or was it “ET Canada?”), now Superbad’s Jonah Hill. Training Halle Berry for Catwoman is what got him the first mega-spotlight; Oprah flipped the switch by telling Halle her trainer needed to write a book. Enter 5-Factor Fitness, which promises “5 weeks to a celebrity body by working out less and eating more.” I read it on the beach when I was in Mexico for my friend Chantel’s wedding.
I’ve been using the 5-Factor workout now since February 2005. Sometimes I fall off the fitness wagon for a bit — I plateaued on the couch for six months until just this past February — but the efficiency of the workout keeps me coming back. And you know what? I don’t have a celebrity body, but I do have a body I can celebrate, finally. It’s stronger and a much better shape for the clothes I want to wear. My arms are firmly toned and I finally have a waist! (My former apple-body shape had me looking like Tweedle-dee and Tweedle-dum’s younger sister. A propeller-beanie and high-waist striped pants… seriously.)
I don’t have a recent “after” photo to show you — the “after” photo in My Healthy Makeover is from last year. But Harley’s coming to town (he’s Canadian, you know) next Wednesday for a press thing; I’ll get a new photo then. With pleasure.
It’s June 2007 and I’ve got a new “after” photo popped into My Healthy Makeover. Just so you know. *grin*

02 May 08 at 4:40 pm
Hey you! Congrats on the blog launch. I will not only add it to my daily reading, but also put a link on my own blog.
As for Harley, I’m on week 1 of level II and talk about muscles! No question that I have more definition than I’ve had in a long time. And I can generally motivate myself to get through 25 minutes, even if I’m not in the mood. (Although tonight is the 180 lungs - I’m a day behind - so the motivation might not come easily…)
02 May 08 at 4:58 pm
So glad your Harley enthusiasm finally gets a bigger forum than mere facebook updates! Loving getting in tune with my inner beauty geek ;)
02 May 08 at 5:52 pm
Arrr me hearties. Another blog to read about beauty booty. Looks sweet, sister!!
xx (you know who!)
29 July 08 at 1:53 am
Did the programme myself, being Canadian ex-military, Harley’s background sold me. I started the programme and within a couple of weeks the pounds just seemed to melt off, and I felt great, two years later I am still doing it and still feel great.
29 July 08 at 8:27 am
It’s such an efficient workout that it won’t take me much time to see results again after a two-month break!