Member of the Month

Meet Christine W. Member of the Month for May

Meet Nick R. Member of the Month for April

Meet Marj J. Member of the Month for March

Meet Sally S. Member of the Month for February

Meet Tom H. Member of the Month for October

Meet Kathy W. Member of the Month for August

Our staff of trainers and fitness instructors wish to recognize Kathy W. as our August Member of the Month. Kathy is a perfect illustration of how work and determination gets results in many aspects as well as fitness. Here is her story:

I joined Beyond Fifty Fitness Studio in March of 2023. I was attracted by the individual attention given to me by the trainers and group fitness instructors here. The positive and inspirational staff have helped me find the right mix to keep me motivated and focus on my over all health.

The caring members have given me friendship and encouragement as we cheer each other on. I am stronger physically and emotionally now, and the increase in energy and strength is a huge plus!

I now have a fitness routine, and that is important to me, I actually look forward to going to the gym!

My advice to others is, exercise is a lifestyle change that you need to incorporate into your everyday life. Beyond Fifty has so many options, a wide variety of classes, strength training equipment and personal training to choose from….Start now, you won’t regret the decision for a happier healthier you!!!

Kathy, please enjoy your complimentary personal training session as a reward for your continued success.

Meet Bill C. Member of the Month for May

Our staff of trainers and instructors are happy to acknowledge Bill Champion as our Member of the Month for May. A true example of hard work and determination equals results. Here is Bill’s story:

I joined Beyond Fifty Fitness Studio in June of 2021. I was impressed by the knowledgeable and friendly staff and the variety of classes. The Covid-19 lock down gave me very few options and this was a supportive community. My CPT Chris W. not only designed a great workout plan, he trained me on correct form for maximum benefit and suggested classes for balance and strength as well. The classes have been very beneficial, particularly Stability Ball for core.

This Winter I was actually able to ski a little, much improved from last year’s attempts. I have increased my overall strength and stability, standing and walking is much better now.

My advice to others, don’t give in, don’t give up, come to the gym even when you may not want to, challenge yourself. If you are just starting out, let the staff help you set ‘”smart goals” and don’t forget to breathe!

Enjoy your complimentary training session with Chris W. for your continued perseverance.

Meet Marie L. Member of the Month for April

I joined Beyond Fifty in October 2021 when I was encouraged by my friend Paula H. She suggested a tour, and I met with Lesley and joined. My assessment with her was informative (to both of us). She explained the equipment and created a safe workout based on the results of the assessment.

When I first started I was afraid I would not be able to do the program as the only thing I was doing for exercise was walking. Lesley encouraged me to sign up for classes to do even more. The instructors Patti S. and Linda L. are wonderful, very supportive and motivated me to challenge myself.
I am now working with Mike who is creatively helping me build muscle and endurance and having fun while doing it. I have surprised myself, progressed to the more advanced fitness classes which involve floor work. I was stunned at my ability to get up off the floor, a huge accomplishment for me.

My advice is don’t be afraid to try, do what you can and with time the improvement will happen, resulting in a healthier you.

 

Meet Marianne D. Member of the Month for March

I joined Beyond Fifty in January of 2022 after much persuasion from member and long time friend Stephanie H. Following a serious knee injury in July 2021 which required surgery, my husband passed away in September of the same year. I was lost! Stephanie kept insisting that I should join the gym, telling me it was the best place for me. She said the staff was amazing and the members supportive and friendly. Having never exercised in my life,  I had no idea what I was getting into.

During my first visit assessment, I met with CPT Chris, he explained the machines, gave me some helpful stretches and gave me a program based on that visit. So far so good. It wasn’t until I took my first class with CGFI Patti S that I knew I had made the right decision. Initially I was a mess and had idea if I could complete the classes, now I am sad when they are over. I continue to amaze myself with what I am able to do. Patti and Stephanie gave me the nudges and support I needed. Patti is very patient and over the past year has encouraged me, I have transformed my body, and my attitude about exercise. I now take numerous classes with a variety of instructors and do strength training. I am stronger physically and mentally.  The members of Beyond Fifty have become like family and I enjoy socializing with some of them outside the gym.

My advice is don’t quit, keep going, it gets better. Do it for yourself and enjoy exercising again or for the first time like me.

Meet Kathy L. Member of the Month for February

I joined Beyond Fifty in April 2022 during an Open House. I was attracted to the age appropriate atmosphere.

My initial goal when joining was to become fit again, both mentally and physically.  I began my journey with certified personal trainer, BJ, who helped me regain balance and flexibility, achieve weight loss, feel motivated and have a positive outlook

After conquering my initial goal, I set new ones. I work with certified personal trainer Mike and am continuing self improvement while improving my cardiovascular fitness and nutrition-continued-fitness while attending classes at Beyond Fifty. Medically, I have improved my bone density.

Since I joined, I feel confident, motivated and comfortable. And I have enjoyed meeting great people!

My advice to others is to make an investment in yourself. It feels good to reach goals and have a better outlook mentally.

Meet Kathi S. Member of the Month for January

I joined Beyond Fifty in early August 2022. I was a member of a different gym for 13 years. Resistance training and walking were my main sources of exercise. When the other gym closed 5 years ago, I struggled to find a place to exercise. I briefly tried a membership in a national chain; it was a large, loud facility that was intimidating to me especially when I had no experience with weight machines. I’m sorry to say, it has been 5 years since I have done any form of exercise.

I decided that it is time for me to start traveling again. I have a friend, Barbara, who said “If you want to travel, you have to train for it.” I knew she was right; it was time for me to start exercising again. This was my motivation.

Several women I knew told me that they were members of Beyond Fifty and that they like it very much. After looking at the website for Beyond Fifty, I decided to take a tour. When I walked into the gym, I realized that it was a very intimate, non-intimidating environment. I signed up that day and made arrangements to go to Costa Rica in January 2023.

Since I have never worked on weight machines, it’s been so long since I exercised, and I’m now five years older, I decided that I needed the help of a personal trainer. I have been working with Chrissy for four months now, and I have seen improvement in balance, flexibility and stamina. This is my first experience with a personal trainer; it is a game changer! Chrissy is a very good match for me. She understands my goals very clearly and is very supportive and encouraging. I have a long way to go, but I feel I have come a long way in just four months with more energy and stamina.

My goals haven’t significantly changed. Improving flexibility, stamina and balance are still important. I plan to continue working with Chrissy as she constantly changes my workout to make it fresh and exciting. I also take some of the classes to add another dimension to my routine.

My advice to someone who is thinking about joining or just joined, improvements will be small in the beginning, but they will come if you are consistent. Be kind to yourself.

Meet Donna R. Member of the Month for August

Congratulations Donna R. on being Member of the Month for August.  Your certified personal trainer, Linda L. is thrilled to recognize you.  Here is Donna’s story:

I joined Beyond Fifty in January 2016. I was never very comfortable at other gyms.  I joined a gym prior to joining Beyond Fifty and didn’t find it very helpful towards my goal of losing weight.

Once I joined Beyond Fifty and continued with my weight loss program, I was able to lose 20 pounds.  I felt good about myself and was able to lower my A1C to below 6.0. I started at Beyond Fifty with former certified trainer, Anne B. and continued with her until she retired. She was a great coach and helped me stay on track.

Over the six years that I have been a member, my goals change as life has changed. During the pandemic, I gained weight that I had previously lost and did not exercise much. I am getting back to my healthier lifestyle. Last summer I was told I needed a new knee, so my goal at that point was to strengthen my leg so that I could bounce back sooner after surgery. With Linda’s help, I was able to achieve that goal. My surgeon and physical therapist were both pleased with my progress and credited my speedy recovery to the work I did pre-op at Beyond Fifty.

I feel healthier and more energetic when I exercise on a regular basis. Beyond Fifty has really helped me, especially because Christina has created an atmosphere that is encouraging and accepting of all who join.

The best advice I can share with anyone is not to hesitate to join! This is a fitness center where you can feel comfortable and accomplished!

Meet Terri M. Member of the Month for June

Congratulations Terri M.  Certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor Patti S., is excited to recognize you.  Below is Terri’s story:

In the beginning when I first joined Beyond Fifty, I had minimal goals and varied reasons for looking for a place to go workout again. As with many, I was feeling like a prisoner in my own house! Barely left the house, stopped exercising, and felt blah—I knew I needed a life change.

After gym searching, I found Beyond Fifty—I was super excited because one, it was close to home and mostly it was a place geared to those ages 50 and above. I thought, what a great idea and no more having to compete with those much younger; knew it would be a more conducive place to go. After my tour and meeting with one of the trainers, I knew I wanted to join and give it a try—that was over a year ago!

Joining Beyond Fifty has been a blessing to me in many ways, more than I first imagined could happen by just joining a gym. I work with an amazing trainer, BJ who has supported and guided me on my goals and provided me with numerous tools and training sessions to help me try and achieve what I set out to do—learn how to tone and build muscle strength, workout properly, weight loss and better eating tips.  Along with him, other trainers and instructors have been there to also support and share their words of wisdom. I feel very lucky to have found Beyond Fifty.

In the past year, I have seen a lot of changes—toning, tightening, and weight loss. But even more importantly—I have had some “gains” which wasn’t on my goal list for the gym, but have turned out to be as significant to me. I have gained more confidence and self-esteem, a personal inner calmness, met some very nice people, and made some special friendships. Beyond Fifty has become my home away from home.

I have no plans but to keep going!!

Congratulations Terri!  We hope you enjoy your gift of a complementary one-hour personal training session with BJ.

Meet Cheryl N. Member of the Month for May

Congratulations Cheryl N.  Your certified personal trainer, Ron M., is excited to recognize you.  Below is Cheryl’s story:

I joined Beyond Fifty in September 2021.  My friend who has worked out forever suggested it because I was apprehensive about working out with younger, more experienced people.

My most important goals I set when I first joined was to become physically stronger, regain good balance and reduce stress.  My trainer, Ron, helped me to accomplish this!  Today, I am stronger both mentally and physically, my stress is reduced, and I have lost weight and inches. I have never worked out in a gym, and I have learned about how to use exercise equipment, with the help from my trainer, Ron.  And now, I am able to workout on my own and look forward to my workouts!

With the help from my trainer, I have advanced my workout reps and machines, and have started using a yoga ball for one of my workouts.  My new goal is to attend a Yoga Fusion class.

A bonus from working out is that my A1C level and blood pressure are lower.  I no longer have high blood pressure—no more meds!  I have more energy, and my doctor is very happy regarding my improvements.  I feel more confident, less stress, and more energy.

The best advice I can share to everyone interested in getting started is to not be afraid.  Just take the first step and start!

Congratulations Cheryl!  We hope you enjoy your gift of a complementary one-hour personal training session with Ron.

Meet Judi C. Member of the Month for April

Congratulations Judi on being April’s Member of the Month.  Your certified personal trainer, Lesley F., is excited to recognize you.  Below is Judi’s story:

Judi joined Beyond Fifty in January 2016 due to the ice and snow outside.  Judi is a power walker, and the inclement weather outside wasn’t as exciting as the warm and friendly environment inside Beyond Fifty.

Judi began her fitness journey at Beyond Fifty originally with now retired, certified trainer Anne B.  Judi’s goal was to improve her stability and flexibility in order to reduce the chance of falling when power walking, and to find some relief from her chronic back pain.  Within a few months of working with Anne, her chronic back pain was relieved.  She continued to work on improving her stability and flexibility.

Post-Covid, Judi began working out regularly with certified personal trainer, Lesley F.  Judi has improved her stability, flexibility and strength.  Beyond Fifty has provided her with confidence, therefore decreasing her fear of falling when walking outside.  Judi can “with proper body mechanics, pick things up from the floor so much easier when they drop.”  Her energy level has “100% improved.”  And her osteoporosis has improved, surprising her doctor, who is quite impressed.  Judi feels that exercising at Beyond Fifty is a “way of life.”

When comparing how Judi felt before she joined Beyond Fifty and how she feels now, she is “stronger, more flexible, and more confident when walking outside.”

Judi encourages “everyone to make a good decision and keep coming back to Beyond Fifty.”

Judi, we hope you enjoy your gift of a complementary one-hour personal training session with Lesley.  Great Job!!

Meet Joe H., March’s Member of the Month

Congratulations Joe H.  Your certified personal trainer, BJ Needs, is excited to recognize you.  Below is Joe’s story:

Beyond Fifty was recommended to me by my wife.  She was already a member and very pleased with the location, facilities, cleanliness, staff and friendly atmosphere.  I made the good decision to join!  Being a member has given me structure to remain committed to my goals and a weekly routine.

I began and continue to work with BJ—an excellent, knowledgeable and very patient coach.  I enjoy working with him.  He helped me establish goals to achieve increased mobility in my arthritic shoulder and to also improve my balance and strength.  Additionally, I am currently working on strengthening my core.  Hopefully this will all improve my golf swing!  I’m also finding it easier to walk up and down the hills in my neighborhood.  BJ also makes certain that I am properly performing all exercises.

My family has noticed my increased stamina and activity level and are pleased with my commitment to the exercise program.  My doctors are also pleased that I am remaining active as I age.

I would highly recommend Beyond Fifty to anyone wishing to make an investment in their health.  I would encourage that they work with a trainer in order to establish appropriate goals.

Congratulations Joe!  We hope you enjoy your gift of a complementary one-hour personal training session.

Meet Janet W., Member of the Month for January

Congratulations Janet W.  Your certified personal trainer, Chris W, is thrilled to recognize you.  Janet’s story as told by Chris:

Janet has been a member of Beyond Fifty since Feb. 2016.  After Beyond Fifty reopened from the COVID shutdown, Janet started working with me as her personal trainer.  Her main goals were to improve her balance, strength and flexibility.

I am so proud of Janet’s consistency and determination.  Even during her tough days, Janet remains committed with her exercise routine.  She wants to succeed and it shows.  Janet has been losing weight, getting stronger, improving her balance and is more flexible.  She shows up for her training sessions (we all know how showing up for exercise is not always easy!) and works hard.  Janet, I am proud of you and your success.

When I asked Janet how she feels now in comparison to when she first joined, she said “I am much stronger and look forward to my training sessions.”

Janet’s advice to others is to join Beyond Fifty and definitely get a trainer.  As she says “The trainer designs your workout routine to your needs and keeps the workout interesting.”

Congratulations again Janet!  We hope you enjoy your gift of a complementary one-hour personal training session.

Meet Nancy W.

Congratulations Nancy W.  We are delighted to recognize you for your hard work and dedication to fitness and good health.  Below is Nancy’s story:

I rejoined BF in July 2021 after my physical therapist suggested I continue exercising.  When I returned to BF, I started working with Chris W., CPT.  He has given me much encouragement, and I am still with him.  I also attend Patti’s classes.  The classes have helped me with my balance, flexibility, and social life (I have made many new friendships).

My most important fitness goal was to be able to walk better, have more energy, be able to raise my right arm, and get up off the floor or ground.  In just a few months, I have greatly improved, especially being able to get up off the floor!  I enjoy having more energy, less achy!  I have enjoyed some walking at Longwood Gardens and my ability to get on the Kalmar Nyckel for a cruise!  My new goals now are to improve my fitness enough so I can drive, work in my garden, and keep up with my 2 1/2 year old great-grandson.

By sticking with my exercise program, my doctor is very pleased, and my arthritis and R.A. have improved.  I feel much better now, and like that my legs and arms are stronger.

My advice to others is: Don’t give up!  Stick with it!  It gets easier and the outcome is well worth it!

Meet Linda Sanders

I joined BF in August 2021 after a good friend recommended it.  BF gives me a place where I feel safe working out, it is not crowded, and everyone is vaccinated.

When I joined, I started with Lesley F., CPT, and continue working with her to this day.  My goal is to get stronger!  A goal I have been working towards is to do a push-up and improve my balance.

In just a few short months,  my arms and legs are much stronger.  My push ups are not on the floor, but I am building the strength with elevated push ups. I enjoy having more energy and appreciate feeling more confident in my ability to do things.

My advice to everyone: Don’t give up, and don’t compare yourself to anyone else.  Just keep coming, and you’ll find you are doing more each time.

You can meet Linda by visiting our website, www.beyondfiftyde.com.  Congratulations Linda!  We hope you enjoy your gift of a complementary one hour personal training session.

Meet Jackie Rogers, October Member of the Month

I joined BF for the convenient location. BF keeps me focused and accountable for my physical activities and what I eat.  When I joined, I started with BJ as my coach.  The most important exercise goal to me is to continue to workout and be healthy.

As of today, I have achieved my goal of working out!  I feel motivated to continue with the progress I have achieved so far.  I enjoy living the best life I can live!

In February 2020, I was diagnosed with diabetes and was taking four injections daily.  With my exercise, at my one year follow-up, I am down to a 1mg pill daily.

I feel wonderful and give credit to my trainer, BJ. He and I joke a lot (as I call him Captain America), but he takes his job seriously and cares about my well-being.

My advice to everyone: Don’t give up on yourself!  We are all unique in our own way and we are all one of a kind! So treat yourself good. Live well!!

P.S. By the time this article is released, I will have enjoyed a hot air balloon ride!!  My next goal is to parachute jump.