Meet Dominic Perna, Member of the Month for March 2020:
I joined Beyond Fifty Fitness Center at Pike Creek in July 2019. I was attracted to the fact that BFPC is for older people and not a meat locker of a standard gym.
I was evaluated by Chris White, CPT and started my workout program that Chris created. It didn’t take long before I realized BFPC helped to get me back into routine exercise, which my son heartily approves of as a personal trainer himself.
My initial goal was to achieve an overall better level of fitness and get back into some cardio exercise. I have achieved my goal, and I am continuously showing up three days a week. I haven’t changed my initial goal, but in the near future I’d like to alter my current routine.
I have noticed great improvement in physical strength recovery and keeping up that strong feeling. My overall body composition has improved as well. I definitely have much more energy and much less lower back pain. I feel more disciplined, and both physically and mentally better from when I first joined.
The advice I would like to give to others is to get off the couch and get your butt in the gym! Do something!
Meet Mary Graham, Member of the Month for January 2020:
While still working full days a few years ago and contemplating all the research and advice on the benefits of real exercise even as you age, I read an article in the Wilmington News Journal about Beyond Fifty. To that point, I had exactly zero interest in a “gym,” fitness machines (at a gym or home or anywhere) and personal trainers. This was not leaving a lot of options. But reading the article, I thought that maybe I would like Beyond Fifty with its friendly atmosphere and membership of older people who presumably were not trying to impress each other. The classes in particular sounded like a fun way to get and stay fit.
So, I put “Check out Beyond Fifty” on my to-do list – where it rose to sit contentedly at the top for a long time. Two years ago, when I was no longer working, I one day checked out the fitness center. I decided to join, now substituting “Join Beyond Fifty” on my to-do list where it too sat at the top for a long time. Finally, in March 2019, I told myself very firmly, “This is it. Get yourself in there! Your foot issue is messing up your leg and hip movements, those are messing up your stability and lower back, your right arm rotator cuff tendinitis is messing up the rest of you and cardio is a thing of your past. This adventure of getting older is going to be a sad misadventure if you don’t get going on real exercise!”
Finally listening to myself, I went in and signed up, going to various classes which I loved, both for the fitness and for the fun teachers and supportive members who enjoy a good time. I found it inspiring that, regardless of age and physical state or whether they loved or hated the exercise, so many older people were committed to improving their fitness and health. Then I thought, “Well, if the classes are great, why not go the whole hog?” So personal trainer Anne (who I am convinced knows how to work with every single muscle and tendon in the body) gave me targeted routines using the machines and equipment and I started personal sessions with her.
After nine months, I feel much fitter and stronger and in a way that is sustainable. My movements, and all-over muscle strength, stability and form are way better. I know much better how to avoid problematic movements, and I feel more in control of what my body is doing instead of the other way around. With Anne’s help, I avoided having to go to physical therapy for my shoulder. I even regularly use the cardio equipment, especially if someone is
there to chat with to relieve boredom! I also realized in class the other day that I feel happier thanks to Beyond Fifty and all the supportive people. I now like to say that joining Beyond Fifty is the best decision I ever made!
Meet Jeanne & John Fitzpatrick, Member of the Month for December 2019:
Jeanne: I joined Beyond 50 in April 2018 after my previous gym closed. Quite a few of those members had already joined B50 and had encouraged me and some others to give it a try because they were so happy with the staff and equipment. They couldn’t say enough about it.
I chose Anne as my personal trainer and am so happy with everything she has helped me attain (better balance, strengthening and toning) in the past 19 months. Also, going to Anne’s Flexibility and Balance class on Mondays and Wednesdays is the perfect complement to my workout routine. She is enthusiastic, motivating and knowledgeable about how our body works and she makes it fun at the same time.
I’ve noticed increased strength in my arms and legs as well as better balance. It’s amazing what you can accomplish with a little encouragement.
If you know anyone who is in need of a good gym, suggest they give Beyond 50 a try. They won’t regret it. Beyond 50 is truly the perfect fit for me.
John: In past years my job had always taken center stage, leaving little time for working out. The thought of working out at age 76 worried me. I had concerns about everything – trainers, equipment, cleanliness, atmosphere. Fast forward, I am happy to say I made the right choice by joining Beyond 50. Over the past year, Anne Balbach has provided guidance, tools, expertise and encouragement. I’m here to tell you keep moving. If you can move, you can improve. As Anne says, “together we got this.”
Meet Ed Kessler, Member of the Month for November 2019:
I joined BFPC in February 2019 after being referred by Linda D. I began my workout program with certified personal trainer, Chris White. After my evaluation, Chris designed my program to focus on my most important goal, to strengthen my upper body. In just a few months, I conquered my goal, and have set a new goal.
Since working out at BF, I have noticed I have more strength and endurance. Also, my blood pressure has improved. I feel much better and healthier then when I first joined.
The advice I have for anyone interested in joining is if you exercise you will live longer!
Meet Terry & Arloe Olson, Member of the Month for October 2019:
Terry: I was an active member at a gym until it closed. I was introduced to BF and joined in April 2017. The structured exercise program that Anne, certified personal trainer, designed just for me is a reason that joining BF is one of the best moves I have ever made. When I first joined, my goal was to remain active. I have surpassed my original goal and continue to set new goals. After a serious fall last December, I finally got back to BF and about four to five months later, Anne revised my program. I am finally back to my regular schedule and almost ready for re-evaluation. I have more energy and my doctor has noticed improvements in my health. My advice to others is to not give up for some days are easier than others.
Arloe: My wife was really enjoying BF, so I toured the facility in September 2017 and joined. I was active at another center playing golf regularly until I had to give up my membership due to health reasons. I wanted to get back into shape so I had my head-to-toe evaluation with Anne at BF. Afterwards, I started my structured workout program that Anne created. Like Terry, switching to BF is one of the best moves I ever made. I notice that I feel much better then when I first joined. I have accomplished my original goal and continue to set new goals to achieve. My doctor has recognized improvements in my health. My advice to others is don’t give up. Some days are easier than others.
Meet Debbie Maybroda, Member of the Month for September 2019:
I joined BF in November 2017. I like the idea of a smaller gym that’s members were in my age group and beyond. The atmosphere is both welcoming and friendly. After a widow maker heart attack in 2017 and other health conditions, I knew I had to incorporate physical exercise to my daily routine to improve my health. Days after I joined BF I fell as I was walking through my development and broke some ribs which delayed starting my routine for several months. Once I was able to return to the gym, Anne instructed me to try to do at least 1-2 minutes on the elliptical and walk the treadmill. I could barely do a minute on the elliptical and was out of breath at that. Anne encouraged me to continue to do what I could and I would be able to build up slowly.
Today, I am able to do 30 minutes on the elliptical along with the 30 minutes on the treadmill. I am strong enough for a weight bearing routine. I joined the classes for flexibility and balance the Monday after my granddaughter asked me to do her dance class warm up steps with her, our laughter indicated I needed a lot of help.
I don’t even have words for the appreciation I have for Patti Sexton’s encouragement and her skills as an instructor. Patti also keeps us all very entertained and the class time flies by. I was not flexible or balanced when I started and have a long way to go but I love the classes and know I will continue to improve. I watch the other members in the class in amazement of their accomplishments and know within time I’ll master the moves as they have done.
My initial goal was to get to the gym once a week. I now attend classes 4 days a week and will be starting a new routine with Anne to make continued improvements. I have been able to stop 2 medications as my blood pressure, cholesterol, asthma and diabetes have all improved. My energy level has improved to the point that I no longer take daily naps, which I had been doing every day since my heart attack.
Joining BF was the best thing I have ever done for “me” and I thank my aunt for suggesting that I join. I believe when you start at BF it is in our best interest to work with a certified personal trainer/coach, who are the very best in their fields and they truly want to see you succeed at accomplishing your goals and improving your health. I would not have made the improvements I have made if I had not been working with a trainer/coach. With their support and guidance you will be amazed at what you can accomplish.
Meet Marcia Lynch, Member of the Month for August 2019:
In 2016 I was “borderline diabetic”, obese, had no energy, couldn’t sleep, my cholesterol was high, my neck & shoulders hurt, and couldn’t walk hills or distances without pausing for breath. Mentally, my depression had become more frequent and I fought social anxiety. Anti-depressants had “stopped working” and new medications were added. My doctor and therapist both told me to lose weight and exercise. This advice coincided with a News Journal article about Beyond Fifty, who focused training and exercise on the individuals needs.
I joined BF and met with Anne, who listened & considered my physical AND emotional health. My goals were to lose weight and improve my cardio. After some success, I fell back into the “rabbit hole” of depression for a spell and took time off.
When I returned to BF, Anne and Christina were welcoming, friendly, and supportive. They reassessed and updated my routine. My new goal was to show up regularly and try a class. My anxiety was high, thinking I would be unable to complete the class. I showed up and was encouraged to continue. After a few weeks, I could talk during the class without struggling for breath. I noticed that my posture had improved. I started to focus on my achievements and stopped comparing myself to others.
I traveled that summer, and then started a job that required travel. When I returned, I met with BJ to refresh my goals. BJ added strength training and further challenged my flexibility, balance, and cardio. BJ created a routine that I could adapt according to travel, time, equipment and accountability. I checked in and followed BF online (thanks to Patti’s pictures and motivational posts). I returned with increased strength, balance and determination.
My most recent annual physical noted that my cholesterol and BP have moved into the “good” range, I’ve lost weight, and my blood sugar levels have dropped. These are my “concrete measurables”.
Over time I have noticed other changes which mean even more to me. I am better able to keep up with my family. I can now walk faster while enjoying a conversation. My shoulders mostly reside well south of my ears. I take stairs with confidence. I can dance and sing to an entire song. My clothes fit more comfortably. Periods of depression are shorter. Anxiety is now manageable without daily medication. I can begin a conversation with a stranger. I am less clumsy. I sleep better.
BF has exceeded everything promised in that long-ago article. The community has pushed and pulled me forward through updated goals and plans. I am encouraged and laugh. I participate as much or as little as I need/am able – without judgement. Every time I enter, I am welcomed with unconditional acceptance and genuine caring. I see others at BF as inspiration and am motivated by their accomplishments.
My advice to all: Trust. Show up. Laugh. Do YOUR thing. Check in with yourself and the team frequently to notice the good stuff. Change things up. Rest when you need to. The community at BF has your back!
Meet Orysia Tresznewsky M.D., Member of the Month for July 2019:
I had almost forgotten how it feels to feel good. After a happy and hectic decades-old career with extensive travel, I retired. And literally sat down to rest – for four years! To my surprise, I lost muscle strength and stamina rapidly. It quickly became difficult to rise from a chair or climb a flight of stairs. And last summer I needed lifeguard assistance to climb out of a relatively calm surf for the first time in my life. I was scared to go back into the ocean after that. I also gained a diagnosis of diabetes.
My doctor (bless her) put me on 2 drugs, a low carb diet and said ‘get thee to Beyond 50’. She was a former member here and thought it would be a great fit for me. So I joined in late December 2018. With the guidance, reassurance and gentle coaxing of Anne B I embarked on a doable exercise program and have stuck with it since, gradually increasing weight resistance and aerobic goals every few months. I found that I like the Beyond 50 environment with its peacefulness, small size, cleanliness, friendliness of staff and guests, and lots of personal attention. I feel that Anne in particular is vigilant of my needs and sets up my program to address these.
The good news now, 6 months after starting, is that I am stronger, 30 pounds lighter and have normal blood sugars on one medication only. My doctor was delighted and could hardly believe the improvement in the numbers.
The best news is that I feel great (I remember now) and I suspect that exercise will be the new normal in my life and health.
Thanks Beyond 50! Look out ocean — Here I come!
Meet Joanna Corbin, Member of the Month for June 2019:
I joined BF at Hockessin in February 2019 because I liked the idea of working out with people my age. I began my workout routine after having a head-to-toe evaluation with Chris White, CPT.
My initial goal was to lose weight and improve my all around fitness. The fitness program designed for me has already provided me with weight loss, more energy, and feeling better. I feel better when I wake up in the morning and notice my back no longer hurts!
The advice I give to others is to give BF a try. You will feel better and get to meet nice people.
Meet Barbara Aronstam, Member of the Month for April 2019:
I joined BF in April 2018 because I liked the idea of working out with people my age, and BF is convenient. I wanted to improve my balance, so I started my exercise program with Anne Balbach, CPT. I have noticed improvement in my balance and have gained confidence. I use a walker, and my goal is to be able to walk without it. I also have a goal to continue coming to BF and challenging myself.
Since exercising at BF, my blood pressure is now in the normal range. Also, I feel stronger. When I first started, I had a lot of difficulty using the machines. Now, I see a great improvement.
The advice I give to others is to keep coming to BF and do the personal training with Anne. With her support, guidance, encouragement and sense of humor, and your own determination, you will be successful!
Meet David Weiss, Member of the Month for March 2019:
This is the happiest time of my life. I’m married to Kathi, the love of my life, a smart woman who challenges me on many fronts. I have two little granddaughters. The three year old, Alexa, is always ready to have fun. And Avery is a smiling one year old. I’m retired and doing pretty much what I want to do – painting, writing, taking classes, and traveling. I’m involved at church – but only to the extent I want to be. I like to walk with the Wilmington Trail Club. I have lots of friends. And there’s a couple more things.
One year ago, after many years promising myself we would, we made a commitment to improve our diet. I went from eating hamburgers several times a week, and red meat everyday, to a mostly plant-based regimen. We’re not zealots about it, because we feel if we’re absolutely rigid, we probably wouldn’t stick to it. We have smoothies almost every morning, and we eat lots of vegetables and fruit and beans of all sorts. We also occasionally eat either fish or chicken.
Concurrently, we joined Beyond Fifty, on the recommendation of a friend. About 15 years ago we belonged to a gym, but we were still working and the only time we’d go was Sunday morning. I really didn’t like working out, but I’d play basketball with the other weekend warriors. We come to BF three times a week when we’re not traveling, and when we do travel, we look for opportunities to go to a gym.
To tell the truth, I didn’t really arrive with a well-defined goal. I suppose I wanted to slow the inexorable deterioration of muscle mass that accompanied the aging process. Since joining, I realize that the real goal is the journey. I know that sounds like a hokey cliché, but I think I knew that, in order for it to be meaningful, a change of diet and exercise must be long-term…like forever! And I really do feel as if I’ve made the process part of my daily routine. My numbers have all improved—weight is down, muscle mass is up, body fat down. Plus I’ve noticed a change in my energy level.
The advice I want to leave for others is if you’re ready, Beyond Fifty is a good, comfortable gym. There are opportunities to structure a personal exercise program with a certified trainer. There are classes. And the other members are supportive.
Meet Marilyn Reiner, Member of the Month for February 2019:
I joined BF during March 2018, on recommendation by my cardiologist’s staff. On my first visit, I was impressed by the friendliness of the members and skilled staff, and the variety of exercise equipment available.
BJ was assigned to be my trainer. He worked with me to design goals which at the time focused on increased cardio and strength training. His personal attention and individualized training program kick-started my fitness journey.
In the beginning, I was hesitant to try group classes since I thought the members were in better shape than I. Their encouragement to join gave me incentive to try the evening classes. Patti and BJ reassured me that any level of fitness was welcomed in the classes. Soon I found that I was keeping up with the class and enjoying it! Friendships were developing and my Beyond Fifty “family” formed.
Now the highlight of my day is coming to Beyond Fifty. Classes are energizing and FUN! – quite a change from other fitness centers where no one talked or laughed!
My body has responded to the challenge and I’ve found new muscle strength, a general toning plus a few lost pounds. New goals include working on my balance as well as continued cardio and strength work.
Thanks to everyone who has made exercise a pleasure – Beyond Fifty has truly changed my life. You are the BEST!
Meet Vanita Douglas, Member of the Month for December 2018:
I joined BF in June 2018 after four months of in-home physical therapy. After looking at several exercise centers in my area, I visited BF. As soon as I walked in, I noticed a big difference from the other centers. BF is well organized, clean, and the staff is extremely attentive. The members are very friendly too!
When I started going to BF, I could not walk without my cane. I did not hire a personal coach, yet trainers Anne and Patti both assisted me with the equipment and classes. Now, I can walk around without my cane, most of the time, and I’m getting a lot better with balance and strength.
My goal is to work on balance and strength. I am much better than I was six months ago. I also feel more energized and confident. I walk longer distances without a cane, and my gate has improved. I certainly feel more energy throughout the day, and I’m confident with walking, sitting, and standing.
If you are looking for a gym that is state-of-the-art, friendly with professional staff, and members who are beyond fifty, I highly recommend this gym!
Meet Alice Bussiere, Member of the Month for November 2018:
I joined BF in June 2015 to obtain more structure to my workouts, ensuring attention to all muscle groups. I wanted classes to introduce better stretching, improve flexibility, and provide proper weight training.
I began at BF by dedicating my time to the classes. Later, I trained with Anne, CPT, to ensure correct form while expanding my program to reduce risk of injury. Before long, I recognized that BF provided me discipline for stretching to obtain better flexibility, and increased strength. I also improved my balance, which was a bonus! I feel the introduction of weights/resistance training greatly improved weight loss and BMI.
I met my exercise goal and noticed it most this summer. I hiked in the mountains and tackled different terrains while maintaining an improved pace without losing my balance or injuring myself. Another goal was to easily get out of a kayak which I achieved! My new goal is to take more challenging hikes next summer with my family.
If you are interested in joining BF, I advise that you take advantage of classes and coaches. It is vital to have a proper program and form to reduce risk of injuries and not limit the activities you enjoy doing. In time, you can be challenged beyond your comfort zone!
Meet John Whitfield, Member of the Month for October 2018:
I joined BF in May after hearing people talk about it. I like that BF is for older people. I want to start feeling better, so I joined and began a fitness program with personal trainer, Patti.
With my exercise program, I feel better, have more energy, and am losing weight. My new goal is to keep coming to the gym and not stop.
The trainers are very helpful and friendly. The members that go to the gym are very nice. I continue to see improvement which motivated me to come five days a week. My lower back pain has reduced significantly, I have more energy, and I just like going to the gym. I am losing weight, and I feel great. Thank you BF for changing my life!
The best advice I can give others is to not stop exercising and to keep going. The more you exercise the easier it gets.
Meet Patty Lennon, Member of the Month for September 2018:
My journey with BF began in March, 2016, and I am happy and thankful to say it continues today. BF met all my wants and needs: a gym specifically for my age group, qualified trainers, location, hours and a comfortable environment – not to mention the cleanliness – it shines!
On my initial visit, I met two amazing people, Christina and Anne. After my health assessment, a program was developed to fit my needs. I have achieved my goal of losing weight and continue to work on toning and strengthening. I schedule a consultation with Anne every 8 – 10 weeks to review my routine. The center also offers fitness classes. Two of my favorites are Functional Fitness and Stability Ball (a special thank you to Patti for both).
I feel the best I have felt in years. I sometimes amaze myself of what I have accomplished and continue to grow with my program. My energy level has improved. I sleep much, much better and wake up feeling refreshed. Both my doctors are very impressed with the progress I have made over the last 3 years.
I look forward every day to going to the fitness center. I joined the best gym ever. It has put me on a path to better living!
Meet Kathi Weiss, Member of the Month for August 2018:
I joined Beyond Fifty (“BF”) in March 2018. My friend, who is a member, encouraged my husband and me to try BF. We did and joined. It has been surprisingly easy to be consistent with my workout program since I immediately saw & felt results. Since exercising, I have also been motivated to improve my diet by eating more plant-based meals, thereby further enhancing my results.
I started my exercise program with personal trainer, Patti. My goal was to maintain strength, flexibility, and balance as I age. I have met my goal since exercising, and have increased energy, more stamina, lost weight, and lowered my body fat. I physically feel better and have noticed a reduction in my stress level. My new goal is to increase weight-bearing exercises to address my osteoporosis. I realize that my goals will evolve as I progress.
The advice I would give to others about joining is not to hesitate to take the leap. Regular workouts have become an important part of our week. We look forward to it and always feel great when we’ve finished our workout. We believe we are taking important steps to ensure healthy aging.
Meet Linda Kery, Member of the Month for July 2018:
I joined Beyond Fifty (“BF”) in October 2017. I had been thinking about joining a gym, and I heard about BF through a friend. I headed over to BF one evening to check it out, and liked what I heard and saw. I signed up that night. I went home, got my husband, and we went back that same night and signed him up as well. I scheduled a personal training session with BJ. I had one goal in mind, to become a better runner. I know, weird going to the gym to become a better runner, right? What I have learned is your body can be like a well-oiled machine if you do the work. BJ created a training program with my goal in mind. I attend classes regularly and weight train in the evening during the week. My mornings are reserved for my running. I am happy to say the work has paid off. I have become a better and faster runner. The bonus of it all is that I have made new friends and had many laughs during classes. I love it at BF because they really do care about what you are doing. The staff is always on the floor watching to make sure you’re doing your exercises properly. They ask how you are doing and how you are feeling about your goals. The biggest pay off is that my confidence has improved, my self-esteem has improved, and I like the person I am becoming. I have achieved my original goal, but will continue to do what I have been doing. Because who can’t use more friends, more laughs, and there is always another race to run. I have pushed myself beyond anything I ever thought I was capable of doing. I will leave you with this because it says so much about who I am and where I am going–Psalm 26:2 Test me, O LORD, and try me, examine my heart and my mind.
Meet Brenda Wilson, Member of the Month for June 2018:
I joined Beyond Fifty (“BF”) in April 2017 because I needed a change from my current gym. I wanted exercises and programs that are geared for a person of my age group, and wanted more individual instruction where I am treated as an individual. I like that at BF I can hire a personal trainer to work with me and plan a program geared to my specific needs.
I started my exercise program with Anne, CPT. She is terrific! She has addressed the knee pain associated with my arthritis, and the neck & shoulder pain from my sewing hobby, crocheting, and strange sleeping position. Anne has worked wonders for me. She listens to me and knows that all people don’t fit into the same box.
My goal was to lose weight. To my surprise, I have also gained muscle mass, core strength, and flexibility. I’m still working on seeing the “numbers” go down, but my clothes fit better, my face looks thinner, and my body shape has redistributed itself. My energy level has increased tremendously. I can walk up and down stairs without pain, especially during the colder days. The pain in my neck, shoulder, and while I sleep is gone. Thanks Anne, this is all due to your suggestions!
My doctor likes that I look great. She has discontinued one of my blood pressure medications since my blood pressure is lower because of exercise.
Now that I have joined BF, I enjoy exercising more, meeting different people close to my age, and having nice conversations.
My advice to others is to join a good fitness program which provides a program that meets your fitness goals. BF has a wonderful staff that can help you achieve your goals no matter what your fitness level. Shout out to Christina, Anne, Patti, BJ, Ron and Joe for they are here to help.