You ever see someone who just looks strong? Not just physically, but mentally, emotionally—like they’ve unlocked some secret code to being their best self? That’s Dr. Alison Benedetto. A wife, a mother, a dedicated caregiver, and now, the strongest she’s ever been. And here’s the kicker—she didn’t get there by spending hours on a treadmill or doing endless arm curls. Nope, she discovered a smarter, more efficient way to train, and the results speak for themselves.

But let’s back up a second. Alison was already what most would consider "fit." She had been running for over a decade, tackling everything from 5Ks to full marathons. She paid attention to nutrition and lived a healthy lifestyle. Yet something was missing. Her workouts were long and exhausting, but she wasn’t seeing the progress she wanted. Sound familiar?

Then, her husband started training at Arangio Athletic Fitness. He came home raving about the workouts, getting stronger, leaning out. And Alison? She wanted in. What happened next was nothing short of remarkable. With a structured strength training program, a dialed-in nutrition approach, and the right mindset, she surpassed every goal she set for herself. Stronger. Leaner. Faster. And all with less training time than before.

This isn’t just Alison’s story—it’s a wake-up call. If you’re tired of spinning your wheels, doing the same thing over and over with little to show for it, maybe it’s time to switch things up. Because if you truly want to transform, you need to commit, go all in, and—like Alison—burn the boats.

How Alison Transformed Her Body

by Dr. Alison Benedetto

I'm the strongest I've been in my life.

I have always considered myself healthy and fit. I've been a runner for the past 11 years competing in 5ks, half and a full marathons. I've always paid attention to proper nutrition and lived a healthy lifestyle.

My training typically consisted of long, time consuming runs for cardiovascular training but I wasn't really focused on any kind of weight training program. I was focused more on time/quantity of my training versus quality.

The Turning Point

My husband started training with Coach Joe over a year ago. He would come home and tell me how great and challenging the strength training workouts were and that I had to try it.

He was going 4 days a week for 45 minutes and I could really see his body changing. I definitely wanted in!

I met with Coach Joe in March 2016 for a consultation and body composition analysis and he spent at least an hour assessing my fitness level and going over my training and lifestyle goals. In all the years that I had been working out, I've never had that thorough of a consultation before. His knowledge, clear plan and direction for taking my fitness to the next level was the tipping point that made me decide to train with him. I was all in.

The Results

My goals were to lose 5 pounds of body fat, tighten up my nutrition and literally get into the best shape of my life by the end of 2016.

I can honestly say that after months of training under Coach Joe, both my body fat and weight are at the lowest percent they've ever been in my life and I am the strongest I've ever been in my life.

I've competed in several obstacle course races without problem since training with Coach Joe and I just beat my previous best half marathon time by two minutes with the least amount of 'running training' to prepare!

For me, knowing that Coach Joe was there to push me has made all the difference in my training.

He's helped me attain more than I knew I was capable of and the constant motivation, proven workouts and nutritional program Coach Joe provides are top notch.

Yes, his services are more expensive that most gyms but I'm certain you would be hard pressed to find a program or results like his anywhere else.

And like everything else in life, you get what you pay for.

Thank you Coach Joe for helping me take my fitness to the next level!

~ Dr. Alison Benedetto

Why Strength Training Works for Runners

By the way, multiple studies show that regular strength training can improve running economy (how efficiently the body uses oxygen) by as much as 8%.

This improved efficiency translates into greater speed and more muscle endurance.

And it makes sense for runners to focus on their most important body parts: their legs and core.

So it’s no surprise Alison beat her previous best half-marathon time by two minutes with the least amount of “running training” she’s ever done.

In addition, progressive resistance exercise has a myriad of benefits for women over the age of 40, like a faster metabolism.

Females who lift weights can expect to increase bone density, improve insulin sensitivity, and slow aging.

Research shows that resistance training improves mental health, too—things like de-stressing, sleeping better, feeling more confident, being more mindful and relaxed, and being part of a supportive community.

It's not just about getting six-pack abs. However, if you follow mindful nutrition, you can expect to lose weight in the form of unwanted body fat.

The "Burn the Boats" Mentality

The Benedettos are doing so many things right in their family, including prioritizing their health. The question you're probably asking right now is, "What are her secrets?"

Well, I’ve discovered that clients who make jaw-dropping transformations have a "burn the boats" mentality. This idea traces back to 1519 when Hernán Cortés led a large expedition of 600 Spaniards and 11 boats to Mexico. His goal? To capture the magnificent treasure said to be held there.

Upon arrival, after a long and treacherous voyage across the Atlantic, Cortés made history by destroying his ships.This sent a clear message to his men: there was no turning back. Either they win, or they perish.

With no exit strategy, they rallied behind their leader as never before. In a mere two years, Cortés conquered the Aztec empire.

This idea of “burning the boats” is a psychological commitment where you recognize there is no going back. There is no retreating. You will succeed no matter what.

Takeaways for Your Own Transformation

If you want to transform your body, you have to go all in—just like Alison did. Here’s what you can learn from her journey:

1. Stop doing endless cardio – Strength training makes you faster, leaner, and more resilient.

2. Hire a coach – A structured plan tailored to your goals makes all the difference.

3. Dial in your nutrition – You can’t out-train a bad diet.

4. Prioritize recovery – Sleep, stress management, and mobility work matter.

5. Adopt the "burn the boats" mindset – Decide that failure is not an option.

If you know Dr. Alison, please congratulate her on her success.

Are you ready to get lean and strong in 90 days? If yes, there's absolutely no risk for you because I'll guarantee your results. And your first 14 days are on me.

Apply here and schedule a time to talk about how you can finally hit your goal.

Summary

Dr. Alison Benedetto transformed her body by shifting her mindset and training approach. Instead of endless cardio, she embraced strength training under Coach Joe’s guidance. The results? Increased strength, lower body fat, and faster race times with less running. Strength training not only benefits performance but also improves metabolism, mental health, and longevity. Alison’s journey proves that success comes from going all in—burning the boats and committing fully to the process. If you want lasting results, stop second-guessing and start lifting. Your future self will thank you.

To your success,

Coach Joe

Joseph Arangio helps 40+ men and women get leaner, stronger, and happier. He's delivered over 100,000 transformation programs to satisfied clients around the globe. If you want to lose weight from home, with the best online age-management personal trainer, or you want to visit the best longevity personal trainer in the Lehigh Valley, you can take a free 14-day trial.