Mona’s Story
The word “can’t” is not in Mona Buruato’s vocabulary. She always tries her hardest first, asks for help if necessary, and eventually figures out a way to accomplish what she wants. New sports and skills don’t always come easy, but she pushes herself, giving 100%, once she has made the commitment.
Following body composition testing at her employer’s wellness fair, Mona learned, according to a BMI chart, she was considered obese. Determined to make a change, she came across a Fit Phoenix “New You Six-week Challenge” ad in her Facebook feed. She submitted the online form for an appointment, met with Coach Kelsey, and made the commitment to improve her overall wellness.
She had never seen a gym like Fit Phoenix before.
“The equipment alone was nothing I had worked with before. But, I’m into trying new things so when Kelsey said I would be taught how to exercise effectively and with support, I was game. The support and encouragement in those six weeks was infectious, and I wanted more.”
“I believe you get what you pay for. Luckily for me, Fit Phoenix offers the best service and quality I have seen in a gym. I feel the price equals what I am getting back in exchange. I have multiple trainers who monitor my skill level, and push me when I need it. I have a nutritionist who gives me one-on-one support, and a massage therapist who is readily available.”
The members and coaches at Fit Phoenix are like extended family to Mona. She finds the environment friendly and supportive, and she is surrounded by people who share similar goals. Mona takes advantage of nearly all of the various classes offered. She also participates in Fit Phoenix’s Fuel for Performance Nutrition program which she credits to truly changing her way of living. She now understands the role of carbohydrate, protein and fat, strategically using them to fuel her body and achieve her goals. She has even learned how to make healthy choices when eating out at restaurants.
Mona encourages others to find a fitness partner like Fit Phoenix. “I tell people you’ve never experienced a gym like this. Don’t be fooled by the term CrossFit – there is so much more.” There is lots of encouragement and coaches making sure you set realistic individual goals that make sense for you.
Kevin’s Story
Special education and kindergarten teacher, Kevin Winningham, was working on his post retirement strategy when a friend told him about a workout program called CrossFit that her husband was trying out. He wanted to keep up with their sons. After watching some videos online, Kevin decided the workouts looked interesting so he called the first CrossFit gym he saw and signed up!
“Everybody was happy and helpful. The coaches took the time to explain everything to me and made me feel comfortable. I noticed how the coaches were patient and careful with other members as well.”
“There are so many things going on at Fit Phoenix. I’ve taken nutrition classes, participated in weight loss challenges (won it!), weight training classes, raised money for worthy causes, and jogged food over to a local charity for low income children. About the only thing I haven’t tried is climbing and swinging from the aerial hoops and satins hanging from the ceiling that Aero Terra Arts uses (a Fit Phoenix business partner)! I compete in the CrossFit Open every year. It’s so much fun with everyone cheering you on.”
Kevin’s overall wellness is one of the few commitments he’s truly serious about.
“Even though I joke around when the class begins, I am all business when the conditioning WOD starts. I’m committed to my health and fitness especially now that I’m in my “senior” years. Everyone at Fit Phoenix is committed to me as a member. They are aware of my limitations and strengths and suggest alternative exercises to do during the workout.
I’ve lost weight and kept it off for 4-5 years! I’ve lifted weights between 200-350 pounds using various lifting movements. I can do double-unders. I even ran in a 3 mile Bubble Run – I do not run! I’ve never felt a need to search out any other CrossFit gyms because Fit Phoenix has everything I need.
I recommend Fit Phoenix to others because of the warm feeling I get when I walk through the doors. Everyone says hello and is happy to see me. The workout is unlike any you’ve done before – no solo workout without anyone checking on form. There will be good coaching, a fun atmosphere, raucous music, and other people just like you, getting fit.”
Ken’s Story
Realtor and state representative, Ken Clark is usually rushing from one place to another. This means he has to carefully budget his free time working hard to find the right balance between work, political volunteering, sports, and his significant other.
In choosing a fitness regime, Ken was looking for an exercise program that worked with his busy schedule and produced the results that were very important to him – increased strength and conditioning to help keep him injury-free as he pursued his passion for running. Ken saw immediate positive results when he joined Fit Phoenix.
“At first, I had sticker shock. I had only ever joined those programs that cost under $50 per month. But, once I saw how much benefit I was getting, I realized I often spent money on “cheaper” gyms which I did not use. I realized that the $150 per month I was paying for unlimited access was a great deal.”
Besides the workouts and great progress towards his fitness goals, Ken values the community at Fit Phoenix. “This is a community of people with similar goals and a staff that respects that sense of community.”
“I have learned a great deal about my body and muscle structure, specifically. This has been incredibly important as I’ve gotten well in to my 40s. I believe that I know more now how to stay fit as I age.”
Patrick’s Story
Architect, Patrick Hallman, knows Phoenix like the back of his hand. He began his career working with large architectural firms, but started his own business, C&H Associates, LLC in 2007 with his wife Tanya. Patrick has worked on projects that include City Hall (City of Phoenix), the Sandra Day O’Connor Federal Courthouse, coffee shops, retail stores, and various restaurants. One of the projects Patrick is most proud of is the adaptation of the Historic First Missionary Church building at 9th Street & McKinley – the current home of Fit Phoenix! Yes, folks we may look like a church on the outside, but thanks to Patrick and team, when you walk through the doors you will find one of the coolest training facilities in Downtown Phoenix!
Like so many of his peers, Patrick found the demanding career of a busy architect took a toll on his health. He had lost his sense of balance. The symptoms of age were developing way too fast. Typical work stress led to sudden stomach aches and his weight ballooned. He knew he needed to make some changes.
As the adaptation project evolved and the gym began to take form, Patrick found himself reminiscing about his old high school weightlifting days. Back then, weightlifting was a solitary sport. He was intrigued by the group approach where men and women worked out together. With a little bit of encouragement from the Fit Phoenix team, Patrick attended a class and he was hooked!
In considering the cost of a Fit Phoenix membership versus joining a traditional gym, Patrick had this to say, “I look at the price as a small investment in the preservation of the dreams for the future. One needs a healthy body to be able to do the outdoor activities I want to do in the next 20 years. It’s better to spend a small amount for the professional guidance than feel around in the dark, with mediocre results. In a big box type gym, I would spend less, but everyone is anonymous, getting a spot is intrusive to others, and no one cares to help you move forward with your workout goals.”
Patrick makes good use of his Fit Phoenix membership. He attends CrossFit, Master’s Barbell, and Sweat classes. Being able to get an hour workout in varying days and times of the week is important because of his busy schedule.
Patrick intends to continue his training with the Fit Phoenix team long into the future. “There are enough challenges and wisdom in this gym to last me as long as I continue doing this. I don’t plan on stopping. I recommend the gym to everyone who comments on a need to lose weight or gain strength. If you want results, join Fit Phoenix.”
Life’s Better Fit
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