iFIT Member Highlight: Jason Ash
From a life restricted by obesity to one where 10-mile runs are a normal undertaking, iFIT Member Jason Ash took control of his life after a stage 3 thyroid cancer diagnosis. Wanting to set an example for his children, Jason found his “why” and worked diligently to reach his fitness goals. He was kind enough to share more on his incredible journey, made possible with the love and support of his family.
Don’t let your mind, people’s thoughts, or your own self perception limit what you’re capable of doing! Put in the work. Find your why and just go.
What was the catalyst for change that helped you begin your fitness journey?
I’ve spent most of my life battling obesity. In the summer of 2016 while working in my classroom, I began having chest tightness and difficulty breathing. Having watched my father die of a heart attack six years earlier, this obviously freaked me out! My wife, who is also a teacher, suggested we go to the ER. The doctor performed an EKG, which showed a slight abnormality. They ran three additional EKGs, but they were normal.
Since my chest pain would not go away, I was sent to a larger hospital. All of their EKGs were normal as well. They suspected a blood clot and ordered a CT scan of my chest. Fortunately, the technician started the scan on my throat. The CT revealed a large mass encapsulating my thyroid. The very next day a biopsy was ordered, and I later received the call that no one wants: “You have cancer.” After being diagnosed with stage 3 thyroid cancer, I made a vow to my wife that I was not only going to change my life physically, but mentally and emotionally as well.
How did your family play a role in your success?
Without the help and support of my family, none of what I have accomplished would have been possible. My wife is my biggest supporter! She is the one who goes along with my huge goals and encourages me to keep pushing forward. She is also the voice of reason when my ambitions become too large.
My kids are my biggest fans! My daughter thinks that when I’m running with Tommy Rivs, John Peel, Knox Robinson, or any other amazing iFIT Trainer, that I am actually racing them. She always asks the same question: “Did you win, daddy?” (Sorry Rivs, even though I could never outrun or outlast you, I’ve “won” against you more times than I can count!) My youngest son has recently been diagnosed with autism and epilepsy. Every week, I watch him battle through 5–8 therapies. Seeing his fighting spirit makes me believe I can do anything!
What other things keep you motivated?
Professionally, I am an elementary school teacher. Education has been a huge part of my life for more than 10 years. Two large motivators for me are my students and the school community. I teach in an impoverished area. On average, more than 40% of my students come from or live in fatherless homes. This has been the case my entire career. This statistic is the reason education became my life. These kids are my kids. Their quiet strength and courage in the face of daily adversity motivate me to be my best every day.
What are some things you’re capable of doing now that you weren’t 10 years ago?
Ten years ago, I was far too obese to even think about running long distances or for long periods of time. I could barely walk a mile without needing to quit. I could not get on rides in amusement parks due to my size. I couldn’t even consider putting myself out there and sharing pictures of myself. Oh, how life has changed! I can now go on 10-mile runs and to amusement parks to ride the rides with my children. I can share images of my fitness journey with confidence in who I am and who I’ve become. I can hold my head up high and welcome any challenge life throws my way.
With your huge accomplishments, what are some lessons you hope to teach your kids from your experiences?
I hope that through the example I am living out for my children, they will see that with hard work, determination, dedication, and humility, they can battle through any adversity that comes their way. I hope they see that through lifting up and supporting those around you, you can change not only your life, but be instrumental and impactful in the lives of others. I hope they see that we are not meant to walk these journeys alone, but with one another.
What advice would you give to others in similar positions, wanting to get their health on the right track?
I would tell others to start with their mindset. I was extremely unhealthy. I worked hard and became healthier only to become unhealthy again. I realized that it wasn’t just my physical health holding me back, but also my mindset. Since I have shifted my mindset, real and lasting change has occurred. I had to find my “why” to change that mindset. My why was my kids. My father died at 57. I thought hard about that. I realized that if I continued that trend, I only had 16 years left with them. That hit home! Get your mindset right and find your why. If you do that, your physical health will eventually catch up!
Who is your favorite iFIT Trainer?
My favorite iFIT Trainer is Tommy Rivs Puzey.
What is your favorite iFIT Series?
I loved Tommy’s Iberian Beginner Running Series. I also loved the Everest: A Trek to Base Camp Series.
What do you like most about iFIT?
The thing I love most about iFIT is the community! I can be at peace knowing that I am never alone in this journey. I know that at any given moment, someone else is right there with me and only a message away. Communities thrive because they can express boundless love and support! That is what this group does. From iFIT’s trainers and producers to the members, WE are one!
How long have you been an iFIT member?
I started my iFIT journey on January 4, 2021!
Disclaimer: This blog post is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. The above information should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Please consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet, sleep methods, daily activity, or fitness routine. iFIT assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage sustained by any recommendations, opinions, or advice given in this article. Always follow the safety precautions included in the owner’s manual of your fitness equipment.
Opinions of iFIT members are not necessarily the opinions of iFIT.
You might also like
People Need People: The Positive Effects of Socializing
As human beings, we are social creatures by nature. Instinctively, we don’t like feeling alone, and our bodies and brains actually function better when we are surrounded by others. We are basically wired to be social. If you were to google “why humans need humans” or anything along those lines, you’ll find a plethora of articles explaining why social connections and friendships are vital to our health and well-being. Outside of our family units, when we have friends we can lean on, laugh with, cry with, and talk to, we are nourishing ourselves physically, mentally, and emotionally. We need that connectivity not only to survive, like this article suggests, but to thrive. Whether you’re someone who prefers to have just a few really close pals, or you’re a social butterfly with a lot of friends, at the end of the day, we need those relationships. Here are the top three reasons we need friendships in our lives! Friendships improve our health Research has shown that having strong social connections is vital to our health. For starters, it can reduce stress levels, ward off depression and suicide, lower the risk of dementia, heart disease, and cancer, as well as boost our immune system...and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. It’s also easier to exercise and live a healthier lifestyle when you have the support of friends and family. Friends extend our life expectancy Aside from improving our overall health, maintaining friendships can also add years to our lives—just like regular exercise, healthy eating habits, and not smoking. Multiple studies have found that people who have positive relationships with their family, friends, and community are happier and tend to live longer. Some studies have even gone as far to conclude that social belongingness is just as important as physical survival needs, such as food and shelter. Friends make life more fun This might not be a mind-blowing revelation, but friends bring an abundant amount of happiness to our lives. While I’m sure you can find enjoyment doing certain things solo, I’d argue that most things are more fun when you do it with someone else. There’s an unexplainable joy that comes from sharing experiences with people we care about. Studies have shown, including this one conducted back in 2011, that having meaningful social relationships affects our neurobiological endogenous opioid system (think endorphins), triggering the part of the brain that makes us feel good. Simply put, connecting and interacting with our friends gives us happy feelings. Ever caught up with an old friend, then felt really good afterwards? Those are your endorphins kicking in, telling you that what you just did is healthy for your emotional and physical health! So, no matter what stage of life you’re in, make it a priority to get out and do things with your friends. Whether it’s a quick phone call or grabbing lunch, keep your friends close and remember to have fun!
July 13, 2019
iFIT Exclusives: Iron Mom: Hannah Eden’s Story
iFIT Exclusives are more than workouts. They are transformative, documentary-style experiences that connect you with the stories, people, and moments that make the iFIT community unique. These episodes offer a deep dive into the lives of our trainers and members, following their personal journeys to greatness. Hannah Eden’s Story: Turning a Challenge into a Strength The latest iFIT Exclusive brings you Iron Mom: Hannah Eden’s Story, following her journey from motherhood to the finish line. You’ll witness her transformation as she sets her sights on completing a Half Ironman in Hawaii, all while balancing training and family. With honesty, heart, and the support of her friends and family, Hannah reminds us that strength isn’t just physical–it’s the courage to keep showing up, even when things get tough. Why iFIT Exclusives Matter iFIT Exclusives go beyond physical fitness. They tap into the human experience and serve as a reminder that growth and struggle are all part of the journey. Through stories like Hannah’s, you’ll feel connected and inspired to chase your own goals. More Stories Ahead Iron Mom is just one of many iFIT Exclusives that aim to keep you motivated and engaged in your fitness journey. Stay tuned for more powerful stories from the iFIT community. Whether you’re in the midst of your own comeback or simply looking for inspiration, Hannah’s story is one you don’t want to miss. Disclaimer: The primary purpose of this blog post is to inform and entertain. Nothing on the post constitutes or is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided on the blog is solely at your own risk. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, and please consult your doctor or other health care provider before making any changes to your diet, sleep methods, daily activity, or fitness routine. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information available on this blog. NordicTrack assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage sustained by any recommendations, opinions, or advice given in this article. Always follow the safety precautions included in the owner’s manual of your fitness equipment.
May 27, 2025
Introducing the iFIT Weekly Group Ride: A New Experience to Keep You Motivated
We know it can be difficult to stay consistent with your workouts, especially when life gets busy or your routine starts feeling stale. That’s why we’re launching a new experience that iFIT members can all look forward to each week: the iFIT Weekly Group Ride. This new series reimagines how you engage with cycling workouts on iFIT. It’s a weekly drop of fresh motivation that brings the iFIT community together, all from the comfort of home. What is the iFIT Weekly Group Ride? The Weekly Group Ride is a structured, 12-week journey built around Anja Garcia’s new bike series in the iFIT Studio. It’s an approachable, results-driven cycling program that’s great for all levels. Whether you’re new to intervals or looking to build consistency in your routine, this ride is for you. Rather than releasing all 12 workouts at once, we’re doing things differently: one workout will be dropped each week on Wednesday, starting Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Each week’s ride will appear in the “Featured Now” row on your iFIT-enabled bike, so it’s easy to find and jump in. Why Ride with iFIT? We believe fitness is more powerful when it’s connected. The Weekly Group Ride is just one more way we’re building experiences that bring our global fitness community together in fun, flexible, and motivating ways. So clip in, press play, and ride with us. This is your time to take control of your fitness, one week at a time. Disclaimer: The primary purpose of this blog post is to inform and entertain. Nothing on the post constitutes or is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided on the blog is solely at your own risk. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, and please consult your doctor or other health care provider before making any changes to your diet, sleep methods, daily activity, or fitness routine. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information available on this blog. NordicTrack assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage sustained by any recommendations, opinions, or advice given in this article. Always follow the safety precautions included in the owner’s manual of your fitness equipment.
May 21, 2025
