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From Struggles to Strength: Josh Winkler's 21-Pound Fat Loss Transformation

This family man changed his life with a structured workout and eating plan.

From Struggles to Strength: Josh Winkler's 21-Pound Fat Loss Transformation
Written By Jim Stoppani, PhD
Updated January 21, 2025

Get results like Josh

Josh Winkler’s transformation story isn’t just about losing weight; it’s about reclaiming his life. 

After spending years struggling with health issues like eosinophilic esophagitis (EOE) and dealing with low energy, Josh found himself at a crossroads in his late 30s. The weight had piled on, his joints ached, and his motivation had dwindled. For years, Josh battled poor eating habits, lack of exercise, and a body that wasn’t responding the way he wanted.

“I felt like I was over the hill,” Josh says. “I looked in the mirror and thought, ‘I need to make a change or I’m going to be stuck like this forever.’” 

This realization marked a turning point. Having dealt with health issues that limited his lifestyle—EOE, high blood pressure, and chronic inflammation—Josh knew that something had to give. It was time to stop making excuses, stop waiting for the "perfect moment," and take charge of his health before it was too late.

Finding the Motivation For a Transformation

The road wasn’t easy. Josh had tried several diets and workout routines in the past, but they never seemed to stick. 

When he found Dr. Jim Stoppani’s 2024 Summer Shred Challenge, it felt different. With renewed determination, Josh decided to give it a try, combining the Xtreme Shredded 8 (XS8) training program with a high-protein, high-fat carnivore diet. 

“I committed fully this time,” Josh says. “No more half-hearted attempts. I was ready to see what I could really achieve.” 

This mindset shift, combined with the right program, helped Josh finally get back on track and make lasting changes to his body and his health.

Incredible Results: Fat Loss, Strength Gains, and Health Improvements

Josh’s commitment to the Summer Shred Challenge paid off in a big way. 

In just 8 weeks, he lost 21.2 pounds of fat while adding 9 pounds of lean muscle. His waist shrank from 40 inches to 34 inches, and his biceps grew from 15.75 inches to 16.25 inches. 

But the real victory came in his health. The inflammation in his esophagus was finally gone, and he could eat again without discomfort, something he hadn’t been able to do for years.

“The inflammation in my esophagus is gone, and I can eat anything, even steak, without pain,” Josh says. “This is a huge win for me.”

Embracing the Process: A New Lease on Life

Josh’s journey didn’t stop at the Summer Shred Challenge. 

He’s now focused on continuing his transformation. “I feel better than I have in years,” he says. “I’m more energized, more confident, and more committed than ever to my fitness goals.”

For Josh (@JoshWinklerTV on social media), the biggest takeaway has been the power of consistency. He encourages others to take the plunge, even if they’re skeptical. 

“It’s never too late,” he says. “I’ll keep pushing to my next level of fitness, getting stronger, faster, leaner, more flexible and thriving to my fullest potential. I must say, one of the greatest rewards has been seeing my wife, two daughters, friends and family also jump on board and improve their health and fitness.”

Josh's Advice for Others

Here are Josh’s top tips for anyone looking to make a change:

  • Listen to Your Body. “In the beginning, my joints were still a little achy when I did cardio, so I listened to my body and limited the cardio. Not getting frustrated and giving up because I couldn’t do everything was key to my success. Keeping your eye on the prize and pushing yourself to be better each day is what it’s all about. Towards the middle of the program, I was able to add some cardio in with no pain! I was ecstatic. It blew my mind the results I obtained even with my modifications.”
  • Track Your Workouts. “I’ve always loved the Jim Stoppani Workout App; I don’t have to think about designing my own program and logging is super easy. This made it very easy to follow." 
  • Stick to the Basics. “Don’t try to find the latest fad, the biggest hype—just start making healthy choices. Do the things you know are true: cut out processed foods, drink water, and prioritize protein, training and activity. Get one of Dr Jim Stoppani’s programs and just start. Fall in love with the process!”
  • Focus On Your ‘Why,’ Not Excuses: “I truly wanted to reverse my aging and have my vitality back. I wanted to be there for my two daughters and grandkids one day. It’s easy to use aging as an excuse, especially when you don’t feel like putting in the work. After completing the program and seeing my results, I knew this was going to be my new lifestyle. Since the challenge, I have continued to improve my physique and experimen with different foods. I’m loving my newfound vitality!”

 

Get results like Josh


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