From Overwhelmed Mom to Empowered Athlete: How Jenna D'Agostino Reclaimed Her Health in 12 Weeks
When Jenna D’Agostino saw the APEX PWR van drive past her in Portland, Oregon, she had no idea it would be the catalyst for a life-changing transformation. But after visiting the website and learning about the 12-Week Nutrition Challenge, she felt like it was exactly what she needed: a turn-key approach that combined workouts, physical therapy, and nutrition coaching in one place.
As a busy mom of two—a third grader and a toddler—Jenna had tried nearly every diet imaginable: keto, intermittent fasting, carnivore, calorie-cutting, and more. Nothing stuck. She followed influencers online who promoted food tracking and lifting, even paid for an app, but never quite found her rhythm.
“Trying to learn it all from Instagram just wasn’t working. It’s like sleep training a baby—you need someone to walk you through it, not just give you a book.”
Her goal? Lose the baby fat after her second child, get back to feeling strong, and build something sustainable. At 37, Jenna knew it would take more than another fad.
Starting From Scratch
The first few weeks weren’t easy. With a demanding home life and no prior experience tracking macros, Jenna admitted she felt overwhelmed. But with Coach Jennie Carolan—a nutritionist with a Master’s in Food Science & Nutrition—leading the charge in live weekly sessions, she stayed the course.
“It was hard at the beginning. I had to learn how much I was actually eating. I started from zero. But I built a new foundation.”
Jenna made slow, steady changes. She focused on building a base of go-to meals and snacks—a must for anyone balancing nutrition with parenting a toddler. And when she hit a plateau mid-challenge, she filled out the macro adjustment form and got a custom recalibration from Jennie.
“Right after that change, I saw results again. Jennie always got back to my emails. Maybe not the same day, but she was always there.”
Even a bout of the flu that swept through her household didn’t knock her completely off track. She missed nearly a month of workouts, but refused to use it as an excuse.
“I used sickness and kids as an excuse for two years. This time, I decided to push through.”
Real Results, Real Change
By the end of the 12-week challenge, Jenna had lost 8 pounds of fat and gained 2 pounds of muscle – as measured via DEXA Scan. But even more powerful than the physical results were the mindset shifts:
- She now eats bread and carbs with confidence
- She understands how to fuel herself for energy and workouts
- She knows how to adjust when life gets unpredictable
- She’s ready to keep going into the next 12-week challenge
“This felt like freedom. Keto worked, but it wasn’t sustainable. One cookie and you’re out of ketosis. Now I know how to eat, period.”
Why APEX PWR Made the Difference
Jenna credits the structure and accessibility of the challenge for her success. Unlike hiring a private nutritionist, which she said would have felt too expensive or overwhelming, this program was within reach.
“If this gym and challenge hadn’t come along together, I never would have done this. $400+ per month for just a nutritionist would’ve made me feel too guilty.”
Instead, APEX PWR provided her with everything she needed: live coaching sessions, a supportive community, flexible access to workouts and recordings, and real tools for long-term change.
And best of all? You don’t have to be local to join. The APEX PWR 12-Week Nutrition Challenge is open to participants anywhere in the country. All you need is internet access to join live coaching sessions with Jennie Carolan and receive customized support every step of the way.
Ready for What's Next
Jenna may have joined the challenge a week late, gotten sick midway through, and started with no background in nutrition—but she finished strong and is already signed up for the next round.
“This pushed me out of my norm. I’m proud of how far I’ve come. And I know there’s more progress to make.”
Want to learn more about the 12-Week Nutrition Challenge that’s changing lives in Tigard, Beaverton, Portland, and across the country?
🔗 Click here to explore the next APEX PWR Nutrition Challenge
Previous Blogs
Is a Personal Trainer Actually Worth It?
Is a Personal Trainer Actually Worth It? If you’ve ever walked into a gym and wondered whether hiring a personal trainer is really worth it, you’re not alone. Many people debate between going solo or investing in a trainer, especially when time and money are on the line. But here’s the truth: the right personal
How to Know If You Have Nutritional Deficiencies: Signs, Testing, and Next Steps
How to Know If You Have Nutritional Deficiencies: Signs, Testing, and Next Steps Most people think they’re eating “healthy enough.” But even with a balanced diet, nutritional deficiencies are surprisingly common and can quietly affect your energy, mood, performance, and long-term health. Whether you’re an athlete, executive, or busy parent, understanding your body’s nutrient status
Pregnancy and Exercise: Why “Take It Easy” Is Outdated Advice
Pregnancy and Exercise: Why “Take It Easy” Is Outdated Advice At APEX PWR in Tigard, OR, we see it all the time: well-meaning people telling pregnant women to “take it easy” and avoid challenging exercise. “The uncomfortable truth is that this outdated mindset is robbing mothers and babies of life-changing health benefits.” Dr. Nick, MD,