What motivated you to start at AFS?

Through the years  I’ve raised my children, managed a career and taken care of my aging parents. There wasn’t much time to take care of me.  In April of this year, I looked in the mirror and had that “ah-ha moment”, I was turning 60 this year.  I thought now was the time to start my fitness journey, I wasn’t getting any younger. There were no more excuses not to exercise and get in the shape I wanted. I was looking for a workout facility and happened to read about AFS on the Nextdoor app.  A couple of people commented that they really enjoyed the classes. These positive comments peaked my interest, so I went online to the AFS website to check it out.  I watched the videos of the various classes and decided that I was interested in the Fitness Solution class.

What keeps you coming back to AFS?

Right away, I picked up on the friendly atmosphere when I went in to check out what AFS offered.  You’re not just a number.  All of the fitness coaches know your name. While you do have a trainer assigned to you, all the trainers work as a team.  Their mutual goal is YOUR success. I’m the type of person who likes a variety.  The Fitness Solution class offers that.  With four levels of difficulty at each circuit station, I never get bored of doing the same exercises. They are different every day!  This format lets individuals work at their own pace and fitness level.  All of the people I’ve met in the classes are very friendly and non-judgmental.  We each have our own reason for being there. The exercise videos are clear to follow.  The fitness coach leading the class observes your form and provides correction/adjustments as needed. Everything about the classes are upbeat and energizing – from the music, to the motivation and encouragement offered by the coaches.

What has been the most rewarding part of your experience?

During my first meeting with Trent (my fitness coach), he asked me what I wanted to accomplish.  My comment was to lose 40 pounds!  Trent reminded me that fitness is more than just a number on the scale.  In addition to the exercise, there’s food choices and lifestyle changes.  You want overall good health. It’s taken me eight months and I have lost that 40 pounds.  More importantly, in October I had my annual physical and my doctor gave me an “excellent” health rating.  Through diet and exercise, I no longer need cholesterol medicine, I’ve lowered my A1C (glucose) and have significantly lowered my BMI. I remember starting out on the beginner exercises and thinking to myself that there’s no way, at my age, that I could advance to some of the more difficult exercises.   Now months later, when I’m in the class and doing those tougher exercises, I find myself smiling and confident.

What advice would you give to others looking to start at AFS?

Come in and check it out. I think you’ll feel the positive upbeat atmosphere. We are all in this together, to improve our overall wellness. And remember, your journey begins by taking that first step through the AFS doors.