A news story produced for the CW-17 by students from the University of North Florida. I shot, edited and scripted this story.
Many people want to get in shape, but find it difficult to give up their beloved foods.
But Zach Rocheleau, author of the Flexible Dieting Book of Recipes, found the perfect balance between cravings and healthy eats.
The 25-year-old also opened up his gym in January, Genetic Potential Academy.
But before the cookbook and gym came to life, Rocheleau had to go through a fatal experience to turn his life around.
As a sophomore college basketball athlete, he suffered a unique injury. He tore a muscle on his hip that caused him to become bedridden and in a wheelchair for a month.
After his miraculous recovery, he wanted to “bullet proof his body” and help people prevent incidences like this happen. A stronger, healthier body may have reduced his pain he thought.
After graduating college, Rocheleau starting helping locals get into shape.
He started training clients in the backyard of his parents’ house, before moving into a local public facility. His connection to his clients was key to him.
In fact, one client helped make GPA happen, after seeing Rocheleau’s journey and his own fitness progress.
Rocheleau’s method of getting in shape is a little different than the average trainer.
He understands that people have their unique cravings. So, he created his cookbook where people can recreate their cravings into something healthy and perfectly edible every day.
Rocheleau’s social media platform is essential. With over 74,000 followers and growing, he takes around 4 hours a day to cook and give health advice on Instagram.
jhoarea Kader 