117 ANTONIO MONTEZ TONING WITH MONTEZ Senior Antonio Montez trains students following his own recovery. After suffering a concussion, former Bison football player senior Antonio Montez began a long recovery process. With support of his team, friends and family, he began to influence others. Montez lost 100 pounds, and students reached out to him to learn healthy habits. He posted workout videos and training advice on his AMT Fitness social media, and trained and exercised with students. “After my recovery, I gained a new view on what your body needs,” Montez said. “I encourage my followers, friends and family to listen to your body. Your needs consist of mental, physical and a spiritual level. When I help people learn and train them, I always encourage them to make it a lifestyle choice to help them reach their fitness goals. I love seeing people reach not only their fitness goals, but watching them improve in all aspects of their life.” Senior Cassandra Copeland described Montez’s commitment to encourage students who sought his advice. “I met Toni through classes in the business building, and as he shared his story on social media, we all began to cheer him on,” Copeland said. “Several peers began to form groups and go workout and train with him. Toni inspires me, and he goes above and beyond a trainer role. I feel more confident in myself, and I feel healthy following AMT Fitness.” Senior Riane Chavez said it was simple to get involved with Montez’s fitness plans. “Sometimes you don’t know where to star, but Toni meets you where you are,” Chavez said. “He makes it personal and tells you what will work for you. He shows his passion for fitness and uses his God-given talents to help others. His supportive and encouraging emails and texts help keep me accountable to make sure I reach my fitness goals.” After Montez saw the impact he made, he expanded his efforts within his program. Montez made and shared nutrition guides and workout plans, reached out to marketing professionals, published a website and created merchandise. He gained experience and learned encouraging tactics from former coaches. “Teaching at Nooma has let me deeply understand the importance of mediation,” Montez said. “I encourage students and my trainees to take moments after a workout in the morning just to be still and breathe, to take a moment for yourself and to just spend time with God.” story by Madison Meeks Work it out! Senior Antonio Montez trains with senior Cassie Copeland. Montez encouraged others following his concussion recovery. | photo by Stanley
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