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My first visit to Pro Fitness was in March 2005 when I was 49 years old. I was referred to Pro Fitness by my friend Nancy Boeddiker. My goals were (and yes, I have the original document that I gave Doug when I met him):

1. Strengthen muscles for backpacking.
2. Train for Bellin 10K and reduce previous year’s time by 2 minutes.
3. Reduce pain in right shoulder.
4. Do 20 to 30 minutes of exercise 3 or 4 days per week.

Over the years I have trained with every trainer at Pro Fitness. Each trainer brought similar but different ways of training which challenged and strengthened both my mind and body. My discussions with them helped me understand muscle development and recovery from injury, they held me accountable to eat better and they always encouraged me.

So here I am some 18 years later, at age 67. How did I do with my goals?

1. Backpacking (Success) – I take at least one week long backpacking trip every year. Last year I backpacked 60 miles in mountains in Colorado and this year I’m planning a 7 day, 70 mile backpack trip in the Wind River Mountain range in Wyoming.
2. Train for Bellin 10K (Success) – I ran the Bellin in 2005 and beat the previous year’s time. I went on to run 9 half marathons and 1 marathon. Doug helped me with training and nutrition.
3. Right Shoulder Pain (Success) – While the shoulder pain is not gone it is much reduced AND I’ve not had surgery or shots. Just doing light shoulder exercises under the guidance of Cindy.
4. Exercise 3 or 4 days per week (Success) – I’ve made doing exercise a part of my lifestyle. I vary the exercise between senior classes at Pro Fitness, walking, playing pickleball, swimming, and backpacking. I exercise at least 6 days every week and went over two years exercising every day.

Without the guidance, expertise, and encouragement from the trainers and staff at Pro Fitness I would have surely given up on my goals or would not have achieved nearly as much. As Doug likes to say in he senior classes, “Keep your body moving.” Good advice, I plan to backpack well into my seventies and, hopefully, my eighties.

When did you join Pro Fitness?

I joined Pro Fitness at the end of summer, 2021.

What were your initial goals when you started?

My initial goals were to get back into shape and get stronger after I had lost a lot of weight due to surgery on my knee.

How has the changes you’ve made impacted your lifestyle?

The changes have greatly impacted my lifestyle.  I am a lot more confident in myself from being stronger and I feel much more energetic.

Going forward, what are your new goals?

New goals of mine are to start eating healthier foods and get the right amount of protein in my diet.  I also want to dead lift 600 pounds after recently lifting 500 pounds.

Any extra thoughts you would like us to add?

I believe joining Pro Fitness was one of the best decisions I have made to improve my lifestyle.  Everyone at the gym is always nice and great to talk to!

When did you start training at Pro Fitness?

I have been with Pro Fitness off and on again since 2003.

Why did you decide to begin working with a trainer?

I knew that a trainer could give me a better, safer, and more accurate workout than I could do myself.

What were your initial goals when you started?

To get stronger and to stay feeling fit.

How has the changes you’ve made impacted your lifestyle?

I can still do the activities I love to do and keep up with doing them.

Going forward, what are your new goals?

My goal is still to be strong, feel strong, and stay active.

Any extra thoughts you would like us to add?

With Doug and the people at Pro Fitness, one gets much more than just strength training.  It is a whole life fitness education that includes all the necessary ingredients like diet, sleep, attitude, stress relief, water and wellness.  I have learned how the body works and what it needs to function at 100 percent!

I introduced my friend Carl to Doug many years ago and he has been going to him ever since.  When Pro Fitness put out the challenge of “Steps for the month of January”, Carl challenged me to a private contest.  As you can see, it brought the “beast” out of me…quote from my husband.  My total steps equaled 613,824!  It was the challenge I needed to up my personal goals at 75 years old.

When did you start training at Pro Fitness?

I joined May of 2021.  Due to the pandemic, my work office gym was no longer an option and working out at home was becoming difficult.  When things opened back up, I was in need of a place to get back on track. Pro Fitness was the first place I went to.

 What were your initial goals when you started?

I had just turned 39 and wanted to get into the best shape I could before I turned 40. I had already been a runner, but needed to get weight training back into my regimen.  I wanted to add muscle and strengthen my body so I could get faster and recover better from running.   I also wanted to feel better mentally. Pro Fitness has a great combination of free weights and machines and their flexible hours of operation help me stay disciplined in making my workouts.

How has the changes you’ve made impacted your lifestyle?

I feel better at 40 than I ever did in my 20’s and 30’s. Being in a regular workout routine has had physical benefits, but I would say it has done just as much if not more for my mental health.  I definitely have more energy. Staying active also helps you make better nutrition choices. I still enjoy some libations and good feasts, but having discipline to keep working out keeps you accountable and you don’t get the peaks and valleys. I have always had a hard time dealing with the Wisconsin winter “blahs”, but having a place to go to help your physical and mental health has been so valuable.

Going forward, what are your new goals?

I want to keep pushing forward to see how much better I can get with my running times and to keep seeing gains with my weight training. I also want to set a positive example for my children by staying active and healthy. My awesome wife has been super supportive and that keeps me moving forward.

Any extra thoughts you would like us to add?

I feel fortunate that I joined a place that is more than just a place to work out. I see people of all ages and abilities, and it is highly motivating to see. I enjoy the friendly staff and seeing familiar faces. The environment is fantastic and they really try to make fitness and health fun.  Keep on grinding and enjoy the journey!

When did you start training at Pro Fitness?

I started working with Cindy at Pro Fitness about 2013. Over the last 9 years it has been on and off depending on my schedule.

Why did you decide to begin working with a Trainer?

I had worked with a trainer in the past. I needed a set schedule with somebody to guide me and hold me accountable. It is easy for me to get in a routine of doing the same thing all the time. Working with a trainer helps mix things up and I get a better total body work out.

What were your initial goals when you started?

I initially started just trying to stay in shape and keep ahead of my Type 2 diabetes. Even though I have been working out with Cindy for a long time, I was never serious about my eating and exercise. She would always remind me that it was time to hit the gym.  After several years of losing weight and gaining it back, this last year I was totally tired all the time, mentally exhausted, and in a depression. I was about 250lb, the most I had ever been. My A1C was close to 8 and was maxed out on my diabetes medication. I remember talking with Doug and saying I do not think I will not make it to 60 the way I feel. Cindy went out and started doing an amazing amount of research and educating herself on Type 2 diabetes.  We set a goal to get me healthy and off as many of the drugs as possible to improve my physical and mental health..  Cindy researched diligently and we worked together to find a dietary plan, supplements, and exercise plan that worked with my crazy schedule.  We also made changes to my plan and supplements as needed.

How has the changes you’ve made impacted your lifestyle?

Since spring I am down from 208 pounds, the lowest I have ever been since high school. At my doctor appointment in October my A1C was 6.1 and my medication was cut in half. I have a lot more daily energy. I feel so much stronger when I work out. My outlook on life has totally changed and just all around I feel so much better.

Going forward, what are your new goals?

Now that I have achieved my initial goal of getting my A1C under control and a weight goal of 215 pounds, we have set new goals of continued control of my diabetes, getting my weight down below 200 pounds, with a concentrated goal of getting off my diabetes medication altogether.  I would like to continue to lose my gut and improve my core strength. I want to continue to live a normal balanced life!

 

When did you start training at Pro Fitness?
I started coming to Pro Fitness in October, 2021.

Why did you decided to begin working with a trainer?
A friend, Marlene Sharman, recommended Pro Fitness to me several times before I actually started coming here.  I especially liked that it was closer to my home than the other gym I belonged to and the classes for Senior’s really interested me.

What were your initial goals when you started?
My initial goals when I started were to attend the Monday, Wednesday, and Friday classes as regularly as possible with emphasis on gaining strength.

How has the changes you’ve made impacted your lifestyle?
I feel like I am stronger and that is evident in my daily life, lifting things and doing yard work, etc.  Also, I seem to have more stamina and certainly better balance.

Going forward, what are your new goals?
Going forward, I have much more work to do on improving my balance.  I would also like to focus on strengthening my core and learning more about better and healthy nutrition.

Any extra thoughts you would like us to add?
When Tammy told me one morning that she had good news for me and that I had been chosen to be the client spotlight for the month, I was actually shocked, honored, and almost speechless.  Since the day I walked into Pro Fitness, I have felt at home and very welcome.  I am so grateful to Marlene Sharman for telling me about Pro Fitness and encouraging me to try it out.

I began attending the morning classes on balance, strength, and cardio.  Right away I found them to be very beneficial. Before the first balance class with Cindy I thought my balance was fine, but found out quickly that was not the case.  I can now walk in a straight line without wobbling too much, but I have a long way to go. We even work on our core in that class because a strong core helps with good balance.  The strength and cardio classes with Doug are wonderful too.   I have been taught so many exercises from both classes that it keeps them interesting and the half hour per class just flies by.  Also, during strength and cardio classes, Doug talks about the value of exercise and good nutrition.  He provides us with information on both subjects that we might not be aware of otherwise.

One last thing that I need to mention about the classes is that both Doug and Cindy compliment us when we are doing an exercise well, but they’re not hesitant to gently correct us if our form isn’t quite up to their standards. That’s valuable because why would we want to continue doing something poorly when we can easily be taught to do it correctly?  I should also mention that we have fun and some good laughs during the classes, too.

It’s difficult to find the words to express how much I enjoy belonging to Pro Fitness.  I have met so many wonderful people since I began working out here, especially.  Doug and his staff are so knowledgeable and hard working.  It’s obvious that they love what they do and care deeply about their clients.  Thank you all for everything you do!

When did you start training at Pro Fitness?

A long time ago.  Maybe 10 years?  Started working out with Doug, Omarr, and Cindy.

Why did you decide to begin working with a trainer?

To build lean muscle, stay in great shape and control my weight.  Working out helps control anxiety and is essential for energy when you’re in the service industry!

What were your initial goals when you started?

Weight loss and muscle building, but mostly cross train.  I used to run and never lift weights or work on my core.  Now, years later, I am so thankful that my core is strong. As my knees and joints age, I’ve notice how many times my core saved me from falling and losing balance, and keeping my whole body moving.

Going forward, what are your new goals?

Well, my knees are suffering, due to standing, genetics, running, etc.  It has forced me to become “creative” with my workouts.  I’ve worked with Doug to understand swimming and am working diligently to become more proficient in the pool.  That has helped me take some time off my knees. 🙂

Any extra thoughts you would like us to add?

I am so thankful for Doug’s continued patience!  Aging and not being able to do everything I want to do is difficult.  Doug handles the aging body with finesse.  Just like brushing your teeth, working out has become a habit.  I never go a day without brushing my teeth or working out.  It’s just part of the day!  It motivates me and assists in giving me confidence of accomplishment.  It’s also a wonderful social engagement outside of work.  I truly wish I could personal train, daily!

I feel honored that you have chosen me to be the October client spotlight.

I met Doug approximately 20 years ago. He would come to our home and train my husband, son, and me.  Within a few years, I found myself coming to the gym to train and work out.

I have always been an active person. Our family would take yearly bike trips to Europe with our teenagers and Mark’s parents. They were in their 70’s and they gave me the inspiration to bike and hike into my 70’s. That was my motivation to take my fitness to a new level and work with a trainer. By doing this I was able to bike century rides and many long weekend rides with my good friend Sharon, who I met at Pro Fitness.

I always look forward to working with Doug and tell him that Pro Fitness is my happy place. He has taught me so much, not only fitness, but nutrition, fasting, medical conditions, and treatment. He has pushed/motivated me to be the best I can be.

Going forward, I have started taking Silver Sneakers classes. I am finding I need more balance and flexibility along with strength training. I would call ours Silver Sneakers Advanced Plus. Cindy uses lots of useful exercises to keep us toned.

Pro Fitness is a unique, boutique gym. The staff is the best. Doug, Cindy, Crystal, Tammy, and Steve will treat you like family. Thank you Pro Fitness for being a part of my life!

When did I start training?

Feb. 11, 2022

Why did I decide to work with a trainer?

I wanted to work with a professional trainer to learn to exercise safely for my neck, back and hip. I have never belonged to a gym and wanted to learn what to do!

I wanted to improve my core strength, arm strength and cardio and needed guidance on how to get all of me in better condition for my long term health and mobility.

For the last 8 years, I have had a hard time motivating myself to exercise and became a little lax on my eating habits.  My lower back/hip issues also got in the way.  I gave myself excuses and would say, “I don’t look that bad.” But, I couldn’t wear about 80% of my wardrobe and even my ‘fat’ pants I bought last summer got tight.

We got home from a trip to Nashville Feb 6, 2022 and I took the next day off of work to reset myself and get organized at home before going back to work.  I told myself I had to call Pro Fitness, the gym my friend recommended at least 6 months earlier.  Finally at 2pm I got the courage to place the call.

When I spoke to Doug to set up an appointment to visit the gym, he said to bring my work out clothes.  We would start “doing” some exercise, not just talk about it and get the dust off my muscles.  I liked that approach, because I knew my muscles were dusty!

Initial goals:

Improve arm and core strength.  I want to continue to lead an active life well into my 80’s and 90’s and be able to get off of the toilet!

As Doug would say, “continue to say ‘yes’ to doing things in life”.

I want to be able to work and help in my yard and not rely on my husband to do all of the lifting of lawn furniture, etc. in spring.

My oldest son and I have a variety of conversations and he said “mom, keep yourself strong as you get older” and I want that so I can travel and hike with him in the mountains.  That was my March goal!

Weight loss—I wanted to shed those extra pounds I had gained.  I have lost 15 lbs at a slow and steady pace.

How have the changes impacted my lifestyle?

 In my first meetings with Doug, he talked about first having a vision, then setting my goals to achieve my vision.  I wrote those two words on the chalk board in our back entry as a daily reminder of my vision and goals and I took time to write down my monthly goals to get me going on this journey.

Eating Habits—The March salad challenge was perfect timing in helping me reel in my meal and snack choices.  I am improving at taking time to prep fresh veggies for a snack, eating more healthy salads each week, and in general eating a little lighter.

Augusts’ one week reset challenge was also excellent timing because I had started to get a little sloppy again after the July 4 holiday and family events that followed throughout the rest of the month.

I am exercising 2-4 times per week with Doug and Chrystal and have class time in my schedule.

My functional abilities have improved and my back and neck are stronger.  The pain and discomfort has been a slow and steady decline to where I can say this is the best mobility I have felt in about 8 years.

New goals:

Lose 5 more pounds.

Incorporate two additional walks into the week with my husband and our dog.

Increase my pace on my walks and get back to a 15 minute mile.

Take part in a walking event next summer.

 Extra thoughts:

Doug’s one-on-one coaching each week has been very helpful in reminding me of my accountability to myself and the choices I can make for myself.  He teaches, encourages and challenges in a subtle, yet direct way.

Chrystal brings a great energy to my week, always giving us low, middle and high impact options and reminding us it is our work out and to push ourselves to our best potential.

With both teachers, it isn’t about what you can’t do, it is about what you can do and building your strength and energy from there.

At age 55, I realized I haven’t done a weekly activity with a new group of people in a long time.  Getting started, I felt awkward, weak and slow in transitioning between activities.  Each class I kept telling myself I can only get better…..and I have improved AND the staff and members at Pro Fitness made a huge difference.  They were welcoming and encouraging, making me feel a part of a new family that encourages and supports you.