
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.”

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.”

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.”

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!