What motivated you to start at AFS?
I have an auto-immune disease that affects my joints, mainly attacking my spine. I wanted to be stronger and lose weight in order to free myself of some of my chronic pain. I was so out of shape and in a lot of pain, but I was ready to make a lifestyle change for MYSELF. I knew I’d be limited in my exercises because of my auto-immune disease, and I didn’t want a typical gym environment. My friend works out at AFS, she insisted how different they are; I had to give AFS a try.
What keeps you coming back to AFS?
Most of all the people! I feel such joy when I walk in the door. I have never been to a gym where other members and staff are so supportive and cheering for you. My success is truly their success. Eileen has been such strength for me. She helps keep me on track in a supportive way. I love that I can go to her for questions or guidance any time. The other key reason I keep coming back is the attention they give to each person in class. When I need to have exercises changed because of my limitations, they are always ready with a different exercise. AFS is such a special place that I drive 40 minutes, past several other gyms, to come here.
What has been the most rewarding part of your experience?
My body feels so much better. I have noticed such a difference in my daily pain level since starting at AFS. I have decreased my pain medication and I can walk a flight of stairs without feeling winded. My food habits have changed tremendously as well. I feel better; in turn I want to eat better. As rewarded as I feel with all that, the bonus is my weight is down too.
What advice would you give to others looking to start at AFS?
Start today. Everybody has to start somewhere. I was physically in bad shape, I thought I wouldn’t make it through the first class, but I did it! No one here is judging where you are at in your journey. You will only feel support. We are all doing our own thing and are exactly where we are supposed to be.