Hamilton County Athlete Loses 30 Pounds Through Train 4 Life

The physical changes are evident to anyone who knows John Joest. The Hamilton County athlete has lost 30 pounds in the past year while taking part in Special Olympics Indiana’s Train 4 Life program.

The differences don’t end there, though. Parents Kathy and Jerry Joest see a more confident and poised person emerging within their son.

“He seems to have more energy and confidence,” Kathy Joest said. “We have especially noticed that John’s anxiety lessens when he works out regularly.

Designed for Special Olympics athletes ages 13 and older, Train 4 Life is a 12-week program that partners with local gyms and fitness professionals across Indiana to bring high-quality training directly into communities. Athletes take part in small-group workouts alongside peers with and without intellectual disabilities, creating an environment rooted in mentorship, accountability and genuine connection.

Every session is designed to meet athletes where they are, with adaptable exercises and progressive challenges that encourage confidence and measurable growth.

John’s weekly workouts are matched in intensity by his work ethic, said Katie Hilt, Special Olympics Indiana Senior Director of Sports and Competition, who also serves as a Train 4 Life instructor at Crossfit HSE in Noblesville, where Joest attends.

John shows up each week ready to go with a positive attitude, determination and an infectious willingness to push himself.

“Over the past year, John has made incredible progress both physically and in his performance,” Hilt said. “He has worked hard to improve his form and technique in many of the exercises, and his commitment to learning and improving has truly paid off. The growth he has shown in strength, movement quality and confidence has been remarkable, and it continues to improve each session.”

John said the coaches and fellow athletes drive him to perform his best. He was excited when Train 4 Life started, and his passion for it has grown over time.

“I have more energy, and I don’t feel so tired anymore” John said. “I have lost some weight, and I can fit into some of my old clothes.”

Along with the weekly workouts, athletes in Train 4 Life take home information about daily exercise and nutrition. The goal is to build better health habits that last a lifetime.

John enjoys the at-home exercises, but he likes working out with peers and coaches best.

“When we think about where John was physically and mentally a year ago versus where he is now, that change is really remarkable,” Kathy Joest said. “John is just overall more aware of healthy eating and exercise habits and how much better he feels mentally and physically when he takes care of his body.”

“I’ve loved seeing John embrace and maintain healthy habits developed through Train 4 Life,” said David Joest, John’s brother. “While John has enjoyed a variety of sports throughout life, Train 4 Life has had the greatest impact on his overall health and well-being. I’m proud of the effort John has put in, and our family is tremendously grateful to Special Olympics Indiana for facilitating this life-changing opportunity.