In 2014, Tim Murphy’s doctor shook him up when he said, “I’m just going to be blunt. You’re too fat. You’re too young to be this fat. You’re not in good shape. You have to do something! You’ve got to get the weight off.”

As an avid listener of WIBC, Tim had heard about Exercise Inc and decided to check it out. When he first learned about the 20-minute workout once a week, he was skeptical. But he decided to give it a shot.

Since then, Tim’s lost over 90 pounds. More importantly, Tim’s been able to keep the weight off for more than 10 years.

Tim recently asked if he could share some of his thoughts on his relationship with his coach. He also wanted to give an account of some of the ways he’s been able to encourage others who are trying to accomplish the goals he did. Here’s what Tim had to say about mentorship and why it matters.

By Timothy J Murphy, CAE

A few weeks ago, my Exercise Inc coach Kyle and I were remarking about the importance of having a coach as an integral part of the process of getting and staying fit and healthy. I always credited Kyle as being the one who got me where I am physically, and he’s always quick to remind me that I was the one who put in the work and maintained the discipline. While that may be true, I like to think of it like a symphony musician would—I may have performed the piece, but my coach composed and conducted the score!

As I continue my journey of staying fit, trim, and strong, I have unexpectedly become somewhat of a “coach” to one of my closest friends (and fraternity brother, to boot) who also desired to make key improvements in fitness. As it happens, he moved away from Indianapolis, yet we still stay in touch by encouraging one another to keep at it, sharing tips and ideas, and holding each other accountable for our results. This mentorship scenario actually goes both ways; i.e., we end up mentoring each other.

Technology also helps us stay connected to our fitness friends like my fraternity brother Collin I just mentioned. Just last week, a few of us in Indianapolis ran a 5K race in Broad Ripple, when Collin was running a 5K in Charlotte, NC, at the same time. So, by using WhatsApp on the phone, we were able to run mile # 2 together, even though we were 600 miles apart! This reminds me of how Kyle Truitt and I can keep up with our Exercise Inc workouts even when I am on the road. Isn’t it interesting that Exercise Inc was providing professional virtual fitness way before it was cool!

I have found over the years that by networking with others who are fitness-minded – especially ones in the same place in their journey as I am – the mutual mentorship is a source of energy to press on, no matter your goals. To illustrate, I remember the first half marathon I ever ran. I basically began to tire out around mile 9. I had 4 miles to go and wondered if I would ever see the coveted finish line. Then I caught a glimpse of a group of onlookers who had a big sign that said, “Keep it up…You got this!” Interestingly, that sentiment gave me a bolt of energy to put doubts aside, concentrate on the goal, and get moving. Pretty soon, the finish line was in sight. I knew I had it. Those sign carriers probably have no idea the effect they had on me that day; the same way you may never know what effect you have had on people for whom you are a mentor.

I encourage anyone who has achieved significant goals and milestones to mentor others who are on that pathway. The benefits truly do go both ways.

For the Mentee:

• Support and Guidance: Receive advice from someone who understands their current challenges and goals.
• Skill Development: Learn new skills and strategies from a peer with relevant experience.
• Increased Confidence: Gain self-assurance through encouragement and positive reinforcement.
• Networking: Build connections with peers who can offer different perspectives and opportunities.
• Accountability: Stay motivated and on track with the support of a peer.
• Sense of Belonging: Feel more connected and less isolated by sharing experiences.

For the Mentor:

• Leadership Skills: Develop abilities in guiding, motivating, and supporting others.
• Communication Skills: Enhance interpersonal and coaching skills.
• Increased Self-Awareness: Gain new perspectives and reflect on your own experiences.
• Personal Growth: Experience satisfaction from helping others and reinforcing their knowledge base.
• Networking: Strengthen relationships with peers and expand their personal and professional circles.

My Exercise Inc coach was – and still is – my original fitness and health mentor. I would not have achieved the aggressive goals and long-term success I now enjoy if he wasn’t mentoring me every week. I’ve learned more from him over the last 11 years than I can possibly share with others, but I can share enough so that the mentoring circles seem to keep growing. With the knowledge he imparts comes confidence, focused strategy, and continued satisfaction; and your mentees will receive those same gifts from you.

There’s a person in your sphere who is on the same journey you are, and I hope you’ll step up as a mentor and enjoy the benefits of that mutual relationship. It gives them confidence and better equips you to achieve your next set of goals. It absolutely is the quintessential “win-win”.