At FFC, community is more than just a word—it’s the foundation of who we are. When you’re a member or part of our team, you’re part of our family. That’s why when longtime trainer Eric Glickstein shared his daughter Bria’s passion for dance, we were proud to support her team through the FFC Cares Foundation.
A Lifetime in Fitness
Eric has been with FFC for over 16 years, though his career in fitness spans more than five decades. As FFC’s only Resistance Training Specialist®, Eric is dedicated to helping members move better, build strength, and overcome challenges. He has worked with countless clients over the years—including one with advanced Multiple Sclerosis, who regained significant mobility through their training together. For Eric, FFC has always been more than a workplace; it’s a community of colleagues and members who inspire him daily.
Bria’s Passion for Dance
That sense of community extends to his family as well. Eric’s daughter Bria has been dancing since she was a toddler—what began as natural movement has evolved into a lifelong passion. Dance, he explains, has given her purpose, discipline, and self-expression, while also fueling her natural athleticism.
A Team with Big Goals
Bria now competes with the Lincoln Park High School Dance Team, which is preparing for a season of local, regional, and national competitions. Last year, the team placed third nationally, and this year they are aiming for the championship.
How the FFC Cares Foundation Makes an Impact
Supporting teams like Bria’s takes more than talent and hard work—it also takes resources. Contributions like the one from the FFC Cares Foundation help cover uniforms, travel expenses, and competition costs, making these opportunities possible for student athletes.
More Than Just a Job
For Eric, the gesture is a reminder of what makes FFC special: “Almost every person I have met at FFC has been awesome, from the members to my co-workers. This community has impacted my life far beyond just my job.”
One Community, Many Passions
From the weight room to the dance floor, fitness and performance may take different forms, but at their core they share the same values—discipline, creativity, and resilience. At FFC, we are proud to celebrate and support the people who make our community stronger every day.
“If I can learn this stuff, anyone can.” That’s how FFC Oak Park member Michael Costello sums up the incredible progress made since starting on a fitness journey in January. With the support of personal trainer Lawrence Kay, a meaningful gift from Michael’s mother, and the welcoming community at FFC, Michael’s health and outlook on life has already been transformed. Michael’s story is a powerful personal training success story rooted in consistency, support, and a total mindset shift.
A Wake-Up Call — And a Gift That Sparked Change
At 46, Michael had reached a point of feeling stuck. Between raising two teenagers and working more than full-time as a music minister at both a church and a school, fitness simply wasn’t on the radar. Michael’s weight climbed to 320 pounds, and a visit to the doctor revealed a diabetes diagnosis — a moment Michael describes as a personal wake-up call.
That’s when Michael’s mother stepped in with a powerful gift: a one-year FFC membership complete with personal training sessions. In January, Michael sat down with FFC’s Julius to create a plan — and hasn’t looked back since.
Support, Structure, and a Whole-Person Approach
Michael works out three times a week for an hour with personal trainer Lawrence Kay, who built a plan that went far beyond just cardio. With guidance around nutrition, hydration, movement, and lifestyle habits, Michael has already lost nearly 50 pounds. Even more importantly, Michael’s A1C has dropped dramatically — now just one-tenth of a point above normal. Michael’s doctor recently took them off two medications and is thrilled with the progress.
This personal training success story is about more than just weight loss. It’s about education, accountability, and the power of showing up with support. “Working with a personal trainer has been incredible — I could have gone to the gym without Lawrence, but I wouldn’t have had the same amount of success.”
“I Didn’t Grow Up Around This” — Rethinking Fitness as a Lifestyle
For Michael, this journey hasn’t just been physical. It’s been a total mindset shift. Michael didn’t grow up around people who valued fitness or viewed it as part of everyday life. That meant there was a learning curve — but one Michael’s tackled with commitment.
Now, fitness is a regular part of Michael’s routine. Michael takes walks, looks forward to workouts, and feels a sense of belonging at FFC Oak Park. “You start to get to know people. The membership team is always so welcoming, and I see the same faces each week. There’s a wide range of ages and fitness levels, and that makes the space feel inclusive.”
Michael’s experience shows how a personal training success story can begin at any age — and how support, education, and community can reshape your entire lifestyle.
Everyday Wins: Strength That Shows Up in Real Life
Michael’s transformation is showing up in unexpected ways — from everyday tasks to being a musician. “I play piano and harpsichord and move a lot of gear. Now it’s so much easier.”
Michael recently bought a house and finds that everything from stairs to home maintenance feels more manageable. “I feel stronger. I feel more confident.”
Looking Ahead: Healthy Habits and Long-Term Goals
Michael’s ultimate goal is simple: to get to a healthy weight and manage diabetes without relying on medication. Michael once weighed 200 pounds and hopes to get close again, but is more focused on sustainability than a specific number.
“I used to do extreme dieting, but it never lasted. Now, I still enjoy many of the foods I love — I’m just wiser about when and how I eat them.” The psychological benefits are just as powerful: more energy, better moods, and no more daily naps.
Michael’s even starting to dream a little bigger. “I never thought I’d do a 5K — but now I think, maybe I could.”
Leading by Example — At Home and in the Community
Perhaps most rewarding of all, Michael is becoming a role model — for their teenage children, coworkers, and others watching the progress. “A coworker joined FFC after seeing how well I’m doing. I want to show my kids that this can be a part of life.”
At FFC Oak Park, and with personal trainer Lawrence, Michael has found not just a gym — but a supportive, knowledgeable, and empowering environment that makes wellness possible, even with a packed schedule. Michael’s journey continues to inspire others and stands out as a real-life personal training success story that proves it’s never too late to start.
https://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Michael-Costello-1-scaled.jpg20482560Sydney Meyerhttps://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Best-Gyms-In-Chicago-2025.pngSydney Meyer2025-06-18 15:50:362025-07-10 14:46:45Member Spotlight: Michael Costello’s Powerful Journey Toward Health at FFC Oak Park
At FFC, we’re lucky to be surrounded by an incredible community of members who inspire us every day. One of those members recently shared a heartwarming story that we couldn’t wait to celebrate with you.
Overcoming Health Challenges
Carina has been part of the FFC family since she was just a baby, attending our Kid’s Club at FFC Elmhurst since we first opened. Her journey hasn’t been easy—Carina uses forearm crutches and leg braces to support her mobility, but that hasn’t slowed her down one bit. She continues to meet every challenge with resilience and joy, and her positivity shines through in everything she does. She’s grown up around FFC, where she’s always had a place to play, explore, and feel at home. Her favorite things? The snack bar and trying to sneak onto an elliptical or treadmill right before leaving!
The Great Bike Giveaway
Recently, Carina and her family took on a new challenge—getting an adaptive bike through the Great Bike Giveaway. This incredible program helps families access specialized bikes through a combination of fundraising, voting, and random drawings. Adaptive bikes can be life-changing, but they’re often expensive and not covered by insurance, which makes programs like this so important.
When Carina’s mom learned about the giveaway, they were already two weeks behind. But that didn’t stop her from jumping into action. She reached out to friends, family, local Facebook groups, Carina’s school, and her veterinary community. In just 24 hours, they hit 50 votes and climbed to 8th place. Within days, they reached 3rd place—but the votes weren’t quite enough.
The Power of Community Support
That’s when something amazing happened. Friends and supporters realized they might not win by votes alone, so they began donating instead. Before they knew it, they had hit their fundraising goal—and Carina’s dream of having a bike that works for her became a reality.
For Carina, this bike is more than just a fun ride. Because she uses forearm crutches and leg braces, traditional bikes don’t work for her. Despite trying through insurance, therapists, and doctors, they faced countless roadblocks. Adaptive bikes can cost thousands of dollars, and like adaptive sports wheelchairs—which can cost up to $10,000—they aren’t covered by insurance.
A Life-Changing Victory: Carina’s New Bike and Supporting Other Families
What’s even more incredible is that the generosity didn’t stop with Carina’s bike. Any extra donations are now going toward helping other families still working toward their goals. With 1,500 families entered in this year’s giveaway, it’s heartwarming to see how much of a difference one community can make. Interested in donating? Head here to contribute to the cause!
In the meantime, Carina and her family are on a journey to find more answers about her health. They’ve already been to Boston Children’s Hospital and are exploring options across the country—and possibly even beyond—to connect with specialists. No matter what, their focus is on helping Carina live her healthiest, happiest life, and they won’t stop cheering her on every step of the way!
Carina’s story is a beautiful reminder of the power of perseverance, kindness, and community. We’re proud to have her as part of the FFC family, and we can’t wait to see her cruising around on her new bike!
A special thank you to Carina’s mom, Kristin Valdes, for sharing Carina’s story and these adorable and inspiring photos! We are so lucky to have your family as a part of our FFC community.
Lisa Brigham has been a member of Fitness Formula Clubs (FFC) in the Chicago Suburbs for over 17 years. Lisa has always prioritized health and wellness in her busy life. A mom of 3 teens who works a full-time job, Lisa has always been determined to improve her health. FFC Oak Park has provided a space for her to focus on herself outside her busy work and family life. Through Lisa’s 17 years of being a member, FFC has continuously given her more ways to enhance her workouts. Her health has benefited in unexpected and exciting ways.
FFC in Chicago is the holistic health solution that has immensely improved Lisa’s mental and physical well being. FFC has given Lisa much more than a fitness floor with machines. For 17 years out of the 40 years FFC has been around, FFC has provided her with an entire community filled with group fitness classes, nutrition guidance, a relaxing space for recovery and so much more.
“I am obsessed with the benefits FFC has added to my life, and I have been able to climb towards my goals and become my healthiest self, all thanks to my membership.”
Group Fitness Classes Impacting Health
Lisa started attending daily group fitness classes and quickly realized how beneficial the classes were for her health journey. Through Lisa’s fitness journey at FFC, she has lost over 20 pounds due to her dedication. She has more energy and is in a better mood after spending her mornings at FFC each day.
FFC Group Fitness Classes have been a key aspect in Lisa’s health journey. She has tried an exceptional amount of classes from Pilates to yoga to strength training. Not only are FFC classes convenient for her extremely busy schedule; they also push her out of her comfort zone. Lisa has a blast trying various forms of exercise through a variety of exciting classes that FFC offers. As someone who used to say, “I hate spin,” she now adores it and takes a spin class every Monday and Friday morning! She is able to enjoy and appreciate spin as it puts less pressure on her joints, allowing her to maintain a fitness routine even when her muscles are sore from her other FFC Group Fitness Classes.
In addition to her spin classes, Lisa frequently prioritizes the 9:00 am Endura 94 heated workout classes. This heated workout class focuses on building endurance while simultaneously strengthening every muscle in your body. When Lisa wants to give up during a particularly tough workout, she is encouraged to keep going through the supportive atmosphere of her instructors and friends, motivating her to push through her discomfort.
These classes remind Lisa of why she attends FFC daily and why she decided to become a member. The combination of mentally and physically challenging classes help her stay motivated. Fitness has become not just a routine for Lisa, but also a rewarding experience. Convincing friends and family around her to join classes has become a hobby. Lisa loves seeing them discover their own strength and resilience! The progress Lisa sees in herself and her community reinforces her commitment to FFC. Her daily attendance is nonnegotiable. These classes are more than just workouts; they are a significant part of her journey to becoming a healthier and happier individual.
Mental Health
Lisa has built close friendships through FFC that encourage her to wake up each morning and come to class. FFC Group Fitness Classes have helped Lisa establish these friendships both in and outside of the club. As Lisa has explored new motives for fitness, she has encouraged her friends to to step out of their comfort zone as well. These bonds are a key reason Lisa eagerly wakes up each morning to attend class.
The environment has expanded beyond FFC. Attending morning classes has lead to catch ups with her gym friends after class. After a hard workout, Lisa and her friends will treat themselves to coffee before beginning their workday. They enjoy talking about their fitness journey in addition to other activities going on in their hectic lives, blossoming a strong friendship. These friendships provide Lisa with the benefit of feeling part of a tight-knit community. Her overall mood is boosted both in and out of the club.
Lisa knows that mental health is just as important as physical in one’s overall health. Working out and engaging with the FFC community has helped decrease her stress and enhance her job satisfaction. Beginning each day with a workout has given Lisa a sense of focus, making tackling work tasks tremendously easier. Not only does starting the day with a workout energize Lisa, but it also sets a positive tone for the rest of the day. With a busy schedule, it is crucial for her to stay on top of tasks and her morning ritual. FFC has become an essential part of maintaining balance and achieving her goals.
The Impact of Nutrition
Exercising at FFC has helped Lisa feel great for 17 years. However, there was one part of wellness that Lisa knew she needed to tackle in order to feel her absolute best: her diet. Lisa was able to seek out one of FFC’s Registered Dietitians to get personalized guidance for her body’s needs. In 2020 when Lisa realized that she wanted to improve her overall health to an even greater extent, she understood that what she consumed was a major part of this journey. Lisa and her FFC Registered Dietitian crafted a plan that would work for her. They focused on incorporating more whole foods into her diet and cutting out the processed ones. When changing her diet, Lisa noticed an immediate boost in her energy. She felt more in tune with her body during her fitness classes than ever before.
She has been able to change her lifestyle at home, as she grocery shops with her new fitness community that she created through FFC! Lisa uses this beneficial and social time to find healthy options to bring into her pantry. This has become a fun and exciting experience for Lisa. She enjoys learning new types of food to incorporate into recipes from her friends. Lisa has makes sure to choose each item carefully, using her newfound nutrition knowledge from FFC to help guide her decisions.
Not only does she feel better about what she eats, but she also now enjoys healthy eating! Working with a dietitian has proven to be the final piece to the wellness puzzle that has allowed Lisa to finish the complete transformation of her lifestyle. She now feels more empowered and energized in every aspect of her life.
Influence on Family
Having been a first-hand witness to the full range of benefits that FFC has provided Lisa over the years, her husband and her 3 kids were encouraged to walk into the FFC doors and see what changes the club would provide them. Her kids, all involved in athletics, carve out time to come into FFC. They’ve seen increased results in their athletic performance. Lisa’s kids access the main fitness floor then after, use the recovery lounge to prevent injuries in their sports.
Although Lisa’s kids are highly dedicated to their fitness, they are also still in school. Her kids often stay after a workout to get work done at the Local’84 cafe. Lisa is able to feel confident in her kids future as they are able to properly balance their time by using FFC resources. Lisa loves getting to see her kids follow on their own fitness journey, guiding them to better success as a whole.
According to Lisa’s daughter Kennedi, “Watching my mom flourish with her membership at FFC has been truly special. The relationships my mom has built, and the support she has been given, is inspiring. I have loved getting to watch her thrive in her fitness journey. Witnessing her commitment has had an incredible impact on me. On the days that I struggle to find motivation, I think of the fact that my mom is already at the gym. Through my mom, I have found a passion in creating my own community at FFC.”
FFC As Lisa’s Holistic Health Solution
Fitness Formula Clubs tailors an approach to provide a different experience for individuals’ unique needs and values. Through her 17 years as a member, Lisa has consistently felt a personal connection with the FFC team. They have encouraged her in achieving her health and fitness goals, constructing her to be confident in continued progress. Lisa believes that as long as she remains an FFC Member, she will keep improving her health. The combination of expert support, personalized attention, and a powerful sense of community at FFC has transformed Lisa’s approach to health and fitness. Wellness is now one of the most rewarding and enjoyable parts of her life.
“Becoming a member of FFC has led me to feel amazing both mentally and physically.”
Post Written by Kennedi Brigham, FFC Summer 2024 Marketing Intern.
https://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Lisa-Brigham-1-scaled.jpg19202560Sydney Meyerhttps://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Best-Gyms-In-Chicago-2025.pngSydney Meyer2024-08-28 11:11:382024-08-28 11:35:32FFC: Your Holistic Health Solution
Maria Vazquez used to be intimidated by the gym. She had the impression that gym-goers were unwelcoming and judgmental of people early in their fitness journey. Her mindset completely shifted when she met the friendly, welcoming, and knowledgeable FFC community. Specifically, working with her Trainer Theresa, and her Nutritionist Griselda.
Maria grew up in a Latinx household where she didn’t receive much education about living a healthy lifestyle.
“I was brought to see a nutritionist at a very young age, without fully understanding why I was meeting with them. That did not help my view on diet and exercise.”
Finding the Motivation to Make a Change
In 2021, Maria decided that she wanted to make a change. Still fighting negative biases around fitness centers and dietitians, she started her wellness journey on her own. For over a year, Maria’s exercise routines involved 6 days of cardio workouts, utilizing a free trainer on YouTube.
She began to watch her diet as well. Having very minimal knowledge around nutrition, Maria simply attempted to minimize her food intake.
Maria quickly realized that without a real fitness or nutrition plan, she would hit a dead end.
At this point, Maria had caught the wellness bug. Though the YouTube workouts served as a helpful start, and she had the genuine desire to eat healthy, she was beginning to feel like her makeshift routine had plateaued.
“I wasn’t feeling as great as I hoped I’d feel, and I knew I needed support.”
Changing Fitness Direction with FFC
Maria found FFC when she noticed the incredible results her friend was seeing. She signed up for a tour of FFC Lincoln Park, where she felt immediately welcomed and inspired. That’s when her health journey changed directions for the better.
Maria joined FFC in January of 2024. In just five months, Maria’s diet and exercise routine had completely transformed. The major change? Working with FFC’s team of experts!
Working with an FFC Nutritionist
Maria began working with FFC Nutritionist, Griselda Ayala, immediately upon joining. Griselda taught Maria so much in just the first session. The two discussed the importance of incorporating protein, what portions should look like, and the science behind properly fueling your body. The most influential shift that Maria has experienced in her dietary journey since working with Griselda, though, has been her mindset change.
“I no longer see food as “good” or “bad.” Griselda has provided me with the education around nutrition that has shifted my perspective to view food as just providing “more energy” or less energy.”
Having gone from simply restricting food as her main method of dieting, incorporating the knowledge that Maria has gained from Griselda has helped her fuel her body with healthy, protein-rich foods that give her the energy to show up as her strongest self in both her workouts and in her daily life.
Incorporating FFC Personal Training into Maria’s Routine
Not only has Maria worked with a nutritionist at FFC, she has also worked with Personal Trainer, Theresa Maloco. Maria’s past fears of a hostile environment at the gym completely melted away. Theresa created a safe environment for Maria. She also met Maria’s needs right where she was at. Having previously only focused on cardio, Theresa helped Maria build personalized and intentional full-body workouts.
“Theresa pushed me out of my comfort zone. I’ve lost weight, gained muscle, and have more energy than ever before.”
Fitness and Nutrition as a Lifestyle
Having come from a family that didn’t have much education around health and wellness, Maria is able to share her newfound passion with those closest to her. She’s even encouraged friends and family members to give FFC a try!
In addition to working with Griselda and Theresa, Maria enjoys FFC by participating in group Dance Classes and utilizing the Boxing Studio. Through FFC, Maria has gained not only muscle, but also confidence, and an incredible community of like-minded FFC members and employees. Her hope is that others like her who have had a negative view of the world of fitness and nutrition can see that it’s not so scary. FFC has shown Maria that fitness is for everyone.
Post Written by FFC Marketing Manager Sydney Meyer.
https://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/IMG_7463.jpeg6781536Sydney Meyerhttps://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Best-Gyms-In-Chicago-2025.pngSydney Meyer2024-06-24 10:03:242024-06-24 10:03:24Maria Vazquez – Fighting Negative Fitness Biases and Making Lasting Life Changes with FFC
In August of 2021, Sophie Lester was experiencing something that many of us adults have also experienced: burnout. She needed a way to take time for herself and relieve stress. Seeking a way to build physical and mental confidence outside of her job as a Chicago preschool teacher, she felt motivated to join a fitness club. She was curious about options such as working with a personal trainer or a nutritionist. Although Sophie had dabbled in gym memberships and group classes before, she had never found something that she resonated with enough to stick with. However, from the moment she stepped into FFC Lincoln Park, Sophie felt an immediate sense of belonging, the first step in her journey to physical and mental confidence.
Overcoming Skepticism
Struggling with weight fluctuations throughout her adult life, Sophie was a bit skeptical in her early days as an FFC member. I’m sure most of us can relate to trials and errors in exercise. Maybe you tried a new workout, loved it for a few months, then realized it wasn’t a “fix-all,” so you quit. Sophie was the same way. Sophie’s determination to make lasting life changes convinced her to fight off her skepticism and work with a personal trainer at FFC, Michael.
Similar to exercise routines she’d tried before, working with Michael wasn’t a “fix-all.” Instead, Michael led her to an approach unlike any fad diet or exercise she had done in her past.
“I knew right away that this was the approach I should have been taking all along.”
The Impact of a Personal Trainer
Michael met Sophie right where she was at. He talked through her goals, corrected her form, and helped her build strategic workouts targeting the right muscles, to work toward those goals. In addition to the fitness side of things, Sophie couldn’t say enough positive things about Michael’s encouragement. Have you ever felt intimidated by the gym? So had Sophie. Michael made her feel comfortable, and made the program he was working on with her personal and attainable.
The shift in perspective in working with a trainer was profound for Sophie. What once felt like a chore is now one of the best parts of her day. Michael’s support has helped her gain confidence in her physical abilities more than ever before. Starting with modifications and gradually working her way up, Sophie is finding herself achieving milestones she once thought were beyond her reach; she is even working toward a powerlifting competition!
“I’ve been able to prove to myself that I am capable of anything I set my mind to, no matter the size of my body.”
Discovering a Holistic Approach to Nutrition
In addition to exercise fads, have you also tried fad diets? Maybe the diets that influencers rave about? You try these diets, and realize that it is not a long-term solution. Sophie had been down that path as well. Seeing the incredible results she experienced with a trainer, Sophie was motivated to work with a nutritionist at FFC in 2022. Sophie’s nutritionist, Griselda, worked with her to take a holistic approach to wellness. Shifting her focus from the restrictive diets she once explored, Sophie now focuses on nourishing her body. In the same way that Michael met Sophie where she was at, Griselda helped Sophie develop a balanced approach to eating that prioritizes stability. And guess what? This is something that she can stick to long-term and actually enjoy it!
Managing Mental Health Through Fitness and Proper Nutrition
The transformations Sophie has experienced extended far beyond the physical benefits. For Sophie, FFC has become a safe space for her. She uses FFC as a tool to manage anxiety and depression. Before a stressful morning meeting, or after a long day of working with young children, Sophie uses FFC to relieve stress and cope with the ups and downs of life. The mental clarity and confidence are what keep Sophie motivated to continue.
Fitness as a Community and a Lifestyle
What sets FFC apart for Sophie is not just the facilities or the expertise of the trainers, but the genuine care and support extended to every member. From personalized workout programs to nutritional guidance, Sophie has found that FFC goes above and beyond to ensure that each client feels seen, heard, and empowered on their journey to wellness. And, her FFC community have become friends of hers as well!
As Sophie reflects on her transformation, she is beyond grateful for the role FFC has played in her life. What began as a search for physical fitness has evolved into a journey of mental and physical confidence. She can no longer see a life without a focus on fitness and wellness. With each workout she completes, Sophie takes one step closer to her goals, knowing that she carries the lessons learned and the strength gained at FFC Lincoln Park in every other aspect of her daily life.
Post Written by FFC Marketing Manager Sydney Meyer.
https://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/email-images-2024-05-21T163150.613.png325975Sydney Meyerhttps://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Best-Gyms-In-Chicago-2025.pngSydney Meyer2024-05-22 10:29:102025-05-07 11:31:29How Sophie Lester Found Physical and Mental Confidence at FFC
Emily Oberst is a 25 year old Wisconsin Native, current Chicago resident, 2020 University of Illinois graduate, AND a member of Team U.S.A’s Women’s Wheelchair Basketball team. She and her team will be competing in the Paris Paralympic Games this summer! Emily is a member of FFC Gold Coast, where she completes most of her training for the Paralympics.
I met with her to learn about her background, how she found Wheelchair Basketball, her journey to making it to the Paris Paralympics, and what her training schedule looks like at FFC Gold Coast. Keep reading to learn Emily’s story, or watch our interview below!
From Cancer Survivor to Paralympic Athlete
As a young girl, Emily was obsessed with basketball. She spent her weekends traveling for tournaments, and had dreams to one day play in the WNBA and maybe even make it on the Team U.S.A Olympic Basketball team. At age 12, Emily was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma, a bone cancer that was in her leg. The diagnosis meant she would have to undergo a forced surgery, causing her to lose the ability to run and jump.
“At the time, I was more devastated to learn I wouldn’t be able to play basketball than the actual cancer, because I was only 12 years old and I didn’t really know what (receiving a cancer diagnosis) meant.”
The great news: after undergoing the surgery and chemotherapy, Emily is in full remission!
Emily explained that her best friends at that age were her teammates. Though she was grateful to be healthy, when she was told she wouldn’t be able to play basketball anymore, she crumbled. She stayed on her basketball team as a manager, but she couldn’t stop herself from desperately missing the sport that had been such an important part of her life.
Discovering Wheelchair Basketball
To satisfy her passion for sports and fitness, Emily explored alternative options to basketball. She tried out golf, which did not require full leg function. At age 15, she was approached by a Wheelchair Basketball coach in her hometown of Milwaukee to try out the sport. He invited her to attend one of their practices.
“I was originally very hesitant. I didn’t understand that because I walk in everyday life, I could still play an adaptive sport.”
She went to the practice anyways, with the goal of politely saying, “thanks for thinking of me, but I don’t think this sport is for me.” Emily was immediately surprised with what she saw on the court. A sport she had assumed was slower paced with little excitement seemed to be just the opposite. Emily fell in love with the energy, athleticism, and competitiveness of Wheelchair Basketball. It encompassed everything that she loved about able-bodied basketball!
But, she wasn’t in a wheelchair in everyday life. How could she participate? Emily learned that anyone who is unable to participate in able-bodied basketball as a result of a disabling conditioning or injury is able to play wheelchair basketball. Having experienced a surgery at 12 that prevented her from running and jumping, Emily was qualified to play wheelchair basketball.
From that practice on, Emily’s passion for basketball was reignited.
Journey to College and National Team Success
Emily worked on building upper body strength and learning the differing rules of the Wheelchair Basketball game. From what Emily explained, in addition to the sport being incredibly fun, the Wheelchair Basketball community is incredible. She said that everyone has a unique story that got them there. They also have many commonalities, including their love for sports and basketball, that bonds them.
Emily played Wheelchair Basketball throughout high school. She went on to be recruited for the University of Alabama College Team at age 17. She transferred to University of Illinois, where she finished her career as a college athlete. During her time at University of Illinois, she also made the U.S.A Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Team and won a gold medal in the 2019 U.S. Women’s U25 World Championships!
Reigniting Passion Post-College
After graduating college in 2020, Emily’s focus turned to her career in operations and logistics. She was loving her post-college life in Chicago. However, she felt a part of her was missing without having basketball in her daily routine. In the summer of 2021, she watched as some of her college teammates competed in the Tokyo Paralympics, taking home the bronze medal for Team U.S.A.
“I have never known what (winning a Paralympic medal) felt like, so that sparked my passion (for Wheelchair Basketball) again.”
I can’t imagine what it would be like to work a full time job AND train for the Paralympics, but Emily is pulling it off flawlessly. Since picking up the sport again in 2021, Emily and the Team U.S.A Women’s Basketball Team won a bronze medal at the World Championships and a gold medal at the Parapan American Games in Santiago, Chile. Her next goal? Win gold in Paris!
Paralympic Training and FFC Gold Coast
Emily spends one long weekend a month at the Olympic and Paralympic Training Center in Colorado Springs. The rest of her Paralympic training happens at FFC Gold Coast.
“It’s super nice that this (FFC) location has a basketball court so I can easily come shoot hoops when I need to get those sessions in and then lift for the conditioning portion of my training.”
How You Can Support Emily’s Journey
My first question for Emily as we were finishing up our time together was how we can best support her from back in the U.S. while she is in Paris competing with Team U.S.A. The first step is to follow her on Instagram, @emily_oberst. She posts updates on her Paralympic journey there. She will also be going to China in a few weeks to compete in a “Friendly Tournament” against China and the Netherlands. Follow along with her team there as well!
Interested in watching the games in Paris? Me too. Emily informed me that they will be streaming on Peacock!
Emily, your FFC Family can’t wait to support you in the Paralympic Games. We are so lucky to have you as a part of our community!
Post Written by FFC Marketing Manager Sydney Meyer.
https://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Emily-x-FFC-Court.jpg684683Sydney Meyerhttps://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Best-Gyms-In-Chicago-2025.pngSydney Meyer2024-05-06 16:42:082024-05-06 16:42:08Emily Oberst’s Road to the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games
FFC Park Ridge member, Angela Petroline, shares how she lost 100 lbs with the help of a registered dietitian nutritionist and the FFC community.
Tell me a little bit about yourself and how you made a change to your health.
I recently turned 49 and am a CPA for a private company. I have struggled with weight all my life, in fact, this is the second time I’ve lost 100 lbs. The first time I was 25 and was able to keep it off for seven years, but after getting married, I got comfortable in my life and the weight slowly crept back on again.
When I embarked on my weight loss journey for the second time, I Initially thought if I simply exercised a lot, I could eat whatever I wanted. However, I quickly realized this was not the case as I continued to gain weight. In December of 2021, I twisted my knee walking upstairs and ended up with a slight tear in my meniscus – which meant I had to stop exercising altogether.
With exercise temporarily out of the picture, I decided to hunker down on the nutrition side of things and really hold myself more accountable with my food choices. This pushed me to join FFC where I sought help from Alicia Edwards, a registered dietitian nutritionist.
When I first met Alicia, I completed a Resting Metabolic Rate test to understand how many calories I should be eating to successfully lose weight. I logged my food in an app to help monitor my macros and ensure I was staying within the recommendations. Simultaneously, I started going to physical therapy for my knee and was using the FFC pool for additional exercise. Once I discovered this balance between nutrition and exercise, the weight just started falling off.
From January 2022 – March 2022 I was losing 8-10 lbs a month. After physical therapy ended in March of 2022, I was cleared to get back on the elliptical, and I started incorporating more strength training into my routine to provide better and stronger support for my knee. I also continued to see Alicia once a month for nutrition guidance.
I steadily lost weight each month, and by April of 2023, exactly 1 year and 3 months after starting my journey, I hit my goal of 100lbs (which was the same timeline it took me to lose the weight at age 25).
Now that I’m 49, I’m more motivated than ever to keep the weight off for good.
I have been exercising at gyms ever since I could afford a membership, but my previous gym closed during Covid.
I did shop around when looking for a new gym – at one point I was a member of Life Time Fitness, but it became too expensive. I also tried out xSport Fitness, but it really lacked the amenities I was looking for. That’s when I landed on FFC; it has as many amenities as Life Time Fitness without the high ticket price, it’s close to home and I love all of the fitness options and community events the club has to offer.
I enjoy singing in my free time, so I have really loved participating in karaoke nights at FFC. I’ve also gotten more into self care so I now treat myself to a facial once a month right at the club to help unwind and decompress. FFC has become a one-stop shop for my health and wellness needs.
Since you’ve become a member, you’ve lost 100 pounds! What did you do both inside and outside of the gym to achieve these results?
The biggest thing for me has been incorporating weight training into my routine alongside cardio. Once I was released from physical therapy, I began using the elliptical in the gym every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Then on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday, I’ll complete at home strength training and step aerobic videos to start building more muscle.
Since my injury, my knee is officially 100% pain free! I’ve started slowly getting back into jogging by practicing three minutes of walking followed by three minutes of jogging for 30 minutes. My goal is to eventually replace the step aerobic workouts with a jog after I finish weight training.
Every time that I’ve felt a workout has started getting too easy, I have upped my intensity one way or another. Continuously challenging myself to take it to the next level has really helped me get to where I am today.
What motivates you to continue to work toward your goals?
Right now what motivates me is just feeling healthy. In 2020, I lost my only sibling to cancer so I’m the only child my parents have left. Not only do I need to stay healthy for them, but also for myself to have a better quality of life and be ready and prepared to handle whatever life throws my way.
You work with Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Alicia Edwards. What is the biggest takeaway you have from working with Alicia?
My biggest takeaway from Alicia is that she helped change my perspective on food and weight loss in general. Before meeting with Alicia, my idea on weight loss was that it was 80% exercise and 20% diet, however, Alicia helped me learn it’s really the opposite of that. She’s also always prepared with good suggestions on habits to change or caloric adjustments to make when I hit plateaus to get me back on track to hit my goals.
What are your keys to success?
My keys to success are persistence, perseverance and simply never giving up. Before I lost the weight I was battling depression so my workouts were sporadic and oftentimes I’d choose sleeping in instead of working out. But now, I don’t allow excuses to get in the way. I have trained myself to get out of bed every morning to do some sort of physical activity, no matter what. Even when I’m feeling a little under the weather, I listen to my body and swap my normal routine for something less strenuous like yoga or a walk to still incorporate a little activity into my day. Simply being consistent goes a long way.
What advice would you give to someone who isn’t seeing results yet from their efforts?
Check in with your diet – one thing I learned that I didn’t know in the beginning is diet is key. If you haven’t already, consider getting a Resting Metabolic Rate test to understand your body and how many calories it takes to maintain your weight at rest. Watching your calorie intake is important for weight loss, so this test will provide a baseline for how many calories you should be consuming to be in a deficit and lose weight. I’d also highly recommend consulting with a registered dietitian for continued guidance and support throughout your journey.
My final piece of advice would be to keep it simple. As humans we naturally tend to overcomplicate the process in our minds thanks to the endless advertising and marketing out there. But remember it doesn’t have to be hard – simply monitor how much you intake and burn and find the right balance that works for your body.
https://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Member-Stories-Angela-Petroline-400-×-251-px.png251400Sydney Meyerhttps://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Best-Gyms-In-Chicago-2025.pngSydney Meyer2023-05-08 09:45:302023-05-08 09:45:30Member Stories: How Angela Petroline Learned to Balance Nutrition and Exercise to Achieve Results
In late 2021, we asked our members, “What’s Your Day One?” Dozens of members shared their 2022 fitness goals with us, and we chose four members to follow on their journeys from Day One to Goal Accomplished!Emily has completed her 12-week program – did she accomplish her goal to squat 180 pounds? Find out below.
Twelve weeks ago, Emily started her Day One program with the goal to squat 180 pounds. Let’s take a look back at weeks 9 – 12 of Emily’s program to see if she accomplished her goal!
Week 9
When we last checked in with Emily, she was experiencing some pain from her training. Now, she’s feeling nervous about further injury as she heads into the home stretch of her program.
“I’m feeling nervous because last week I had some tricep pain,” Emily said. “I took the extra rest day, which is great, but I’m really just wary of I think risk of injury, and I also don’t love that this is happening two weeks before the big lift.”
As the final week of her program approaches, Emily’s friends and family offer messages of support for Emily’s hard work.
“I just want to say how proud I am of my daughter Emily,” her mom said. “She’s worked so far to reach her goals.”
Emily’s sister, who helped inspire Emily to start strength training, also expressed how proud she was of her sister.
Finally, Emily’s boyfriend Aaron shares how Emily’s confidence has grown through the course of the program.
“One thing I can say about Emily is that she is much more confident about lifting and working out in general,” he said. “Before, she told me she was a little bit intimidated about lifting heavy and having to get the big giant squat rack on her, but now she’s just jumping to it. And shoot, she can squat me now!”
Week 11
The big day is finally here!
“Today I am going to attempt 180 pounds and I’m so excited,” Emily said.
Watch the video above to see Emily head to the squat rack for her final rep.
Now that Emily’s goal has been accomplished, we check in with her to hear about her experience with the program and working with her trainer Kyle.
“It’s been a rollercoaster,” Emily said. “Now [that it’s over], I feel the after-lift blues a little.”
FFC Personal Trainer Kyle Decker trained Emily to increase her squat to 180 pounds over the course of the program. Emily had this message for Kyle after the program:
“Hi Kyle – I wanted to say a huge thank you to you because not only are you professional skilled and taught me so much, but I think you really cared for me during this whole three month journey, Emily said.
Kyle also had a message for Emily after the program:
“Emily, I didn’t doubt you a minute,” Kyle said. “This entire journey has been great. You’ve done everything I asked of you, and I’m so proud of you for hitting your goal. I look forward to helping you achieve many other fitness goals.”
Congratulations, Emily, on accomplishing your goal! We can’t wait to continue supporting you on your health and fitness journey!
Check out all of our Day One participants’ journeys by following along on our YouTube channel!
https://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Untitled-design-2.png14002280Sydney Meyerhttps://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Best-Gyms-In-Chicago-2025.pngSydney Meyer2022-10-04 16:06:552022-10-04 16:06:55Day One Journey: Emily Is Ready For The Big Day!
In late 2021, we asked our members, “What’s Your Day One?” Dozens of members shared their 2022 fitness goals with us, and we chose four members to follow on their journeys from Day One to Goal Accomplished!Emily is now more than halfway to her goal to squat 180 pounds.
Emily’s program has flown by over the past 8 weeks, and she’s well on her way to squatting 180 pounds with the help of her FFC Personal Trainer Kyle Decker. In addition to her weekly training sessions, Emily has had the chance to test her RMR and VO2 Max at FFC as well as receive therapeutic massages at the FFC Spa. Let’s take a look back at weeks 5 – 8 of Emily’s journey.
Week 5
As part of the Day One program, Emily gets a Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) test and a VO2 Max test.
RMR tests, administered by a Registered Dietitian at FFC, tell the test-taker what their basic metabolic needs are at rest, which comes in handy when fueling your body and meeting nutritional needs.
The VO2 Max test, administered by a FFC Personal Trainer, provides intel around your oxygen consumption during a workout and your personal heart-rate zones.
Emily shared her excitement right before receiving her tests at the club.
“I’ve worn a heart monitor once or twice but never really tracked [my heart rate during a workout], and I’m pretty excited to see how this will go,” Emily said.
Emily learned some found valuable pieces of information from her VO2 Max test.
“I actually found out that I have excellent recovery and a great potential for stamina,” Emily said. “[I found out] I’m in a superior fitness level, so that’s really cool to hear, and it means I have no excuses anymore!”
At the halfway mark in her program, Emily shares how she’s feeling about her training plan so far and what has surprised her about her journey.
“The most interesting thing I have learned during this process is seeing how much everything blends with each other,” Emily said.
She’s been careful to stick with her nutrition plan and her four workouts per week from her trainer Kyle, while incorporating rest days, stretching and getting a good night’s sleep.
“Seeing it all in action makes me realize how much discipline [it takes] and how proud I am so far at this halfway point that I’ve been careful to do this to the best of my abilities,” Emily said. “Kudos to everybody who works really hard to incorporate [training] in your life and doesn’t have a whole package deal because it’s hard, it really is.”
Week 7
Therapeutic massage at the FFC Spa is a wonderful way for strength trainers to incorporate recovery into their training routine. Emily received a massage with FFC Massage Therapist Arthur Green at our FFC East Lakeview Spa.
“The reason I would have [strength trainers] come in and get a massage is because there’s a battle going on with your muscles every time you contract them, relax them, every day you work out,” Arthur said.
In addition to getting regular massages, Arthur recommends a spending a good amount of time stretching after workouts to prolong the amount of time needed between massage appointments.
Of course, those who strength train regularly aren’t the only people who can benefit from massage.
“Almost everybody has some kind of stress build-up in their upper back, in their rotator cuff muscles,” Arthur said. “If you feel little bumps in your [back muscles], that’s probably an indication that you’ve got knots, and they really need to be worked out with the compression of the magic thumb.”
A few weeks before her big lift, Emily wakes up to some pain in her arm, making her nervous about her ability to complete her program injury-free.
“It kind of worries me because I only have about two and half weeks left until my major lift,” Emily said. “I just feel a little guilty for not being more careful.”
Stay up-to-date with Emily’s journey by following along on our YouTube channel!
https://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Emily-and-Kyle.png14002280Sydney Meyerhttps://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Best-Gyms-In-Chicago-2025.pngSydney Meyer2022-09-19 15:43:352022-09-19 15:43:35Day One Journey: Emily Trains For Her Big Lift!
In late 2021, we asked our members, “What’s Your Day One?” Dozens of members shared their 2022 fitness goals with us, and we chose four members to follow on their journeys from Day One to Goal Accomplished!Let’s meet one of those members: Emily!
Emily is a member of FFC East Lakeview and she applied to our Day One Program with a very specific goal: squat 180 pounds.
Emily started weightlifting in 2019, but once gyms shut down during the pandemic, she lost a bit of her momentum with lifting. Before she started the Day One program, she was able to squat close to 100 pounds, but she is looking forward to the structure that comes with working with a personal trainer.
“Even though I’ve been on the machines before in the gym, I think coming back to the gym and doing these types of workouts still takes a lot of discipline and trust in yourself and in your trainer.”
Emily is in her final semester of graduate school, and she hopes this program will help her manage the stress that comes along with applying for jobs and transitioning from school into a career.
“It’s going to be an interesting 90 days to see how this program will help my own mental health and stress routine,” Emily said.
Week 1
As part of the Day One program, Emily is paired with FFC Personal Trainer Kyle Decker. Emily and Kyle will train together for 12 weeks to get her ready for her big lift.
Emily was inspired to squat 180 pounds because someone once told her that 180 pounds is the average weight of a man.
“That was just something that kind of hit me because I really am about women-empowerment, building strength and also being able to protect yourself, so that number really stuck out to me,” she said.
If she reaches her goal, Emily will be able to squat her own bodyweight and a half, which is another reason she chose to make 180 pounds her goal.
With 12 weeks to prepare Emily to squat 180 pounds, Kyle determined she will need to increase her squat weight every week by 5 pounds, which Kyle mentioned was a “lofty goal.”
“Considering I really hope to get as close as I can to 180 pounds – or actually hit 180 pounds because that would be super cool – that’s his gameplan,” Emily said.
During Week 2 of her program, Emily tries her training program on her own. After completing the four workouts assigned to her by Kyle, Emily leaves the gym feeling empowered.
“I’m feeling really good. The movements are definitely a lot easier and I just feel really excited. I also feel really good stress relief from that workout,” she exclaimed.
Week 3
In addition to her weekly training with Kyle, Emily is also seeing FFC Registered Dietitian McKayla Braender to make sure she’s fueling her body properly.
“Three must-haves if you lift regularly would be protein, carbohydrates and hydration,” McKayla said. “For a weight lifter, our protein is going to be much more important.”
Emily then shows us what a typical post-workout meal looks like for her, with veggies, a sandwich and a protein shake.
Week 4
It’s week 4 of Emily’s program, and we check in to see how her training sessions with Kyle have been going.
“I really like the way that [Kyle] instructs because not only does he really emphasize proper form, but he explains why we’re doing something – why this is the process and the pace we’re going,” Emily said.
In late 2021, we asked our members, “What’s Your Day One?” Dozens of members shared their 2022 fitness goals with us, and we chose four members to follow on their journeys from Day One to Goal Accomplished!Renu has completed her 12-week program – did she accomplish her goal to run a 5k? Find out below.
In March, Renu began her 12-week journey to train for a 5k through our Day One program. Let’s take a look back at weeks 9 – 11 of Renu’s program to see if she accomplished her goal!
During our Week 9 video, we talk to both Renu and her trainer Nick to see how they’re feeling about the upcoming race and Renu’s progress throughout the program.
“When I take a step back and look at how I felt when I applied for this [program], I feel a lot stronger [now], I feel more optimistic,” Renu said.
Her trainer, Nick, is thrilled with the progress Renu made throughout her training program.
“Over the course of the [program], I’ve seen dramatic improvements out of [Renu] just in terms of her range of motion, her strength, her endurance, ” Nick said. “She was able to persevere through a lot, so I really feel that for this race, she will be able to persevere just because she has that mental grit.”
Week 10
It’s race day for Renu! Watch the video above to see Renu take on the Lincoln Park Zoo 5K!
Week 11
Renu’s Day One Program comes to a close after she accomplishes her goal to run a 5K! In our last video, we check in with Renu after her race to hear how the program has impacted her life.
“I feel most definitely that this is a beginning,” Renu said. “I don’t think of this as a finish at all but rather a start of how good it feels to achieve something you didn’t think you could do.”
So what’s up next for Renu? She plans to keep on running and already has her next goal in mind.
“To be able to run 3 to 5 miles on a more regular basis in my next goal,” Renu said.
Congratulations, Renu, on accomplishing your Day One goal! We are so excited to see what you do next!
Check out all of our Day One participants’ journeys by following along on our YouTube channel!
https://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/renu-and-daughter.png14002280Sydney Meyerhttps://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Best-Gyms-In-Chicago-2025.pngSydney Meyer2022-07-07 12:33:302022-07-07 12:33:30Day One Journey: Renu Is Ready For Race Day!
In late 2021, we asked our members, “What’s Your Day One?” Dozens of members shared their 2022 fitness goals with us, and we chose four members to follow on their journeys from Day One to Goal Accomplished!Renu is now more than halfway to race day as she trains to run a 5k.
It’s been eight weeks since Renu had her first training session with FFC Personal Trainer Nick Rodriguez. In addition to her weekly training sessions, Renu has been working with FFC Registered Dietitian Kathy Chung, hitting the streets to practice the route for her upcoming 5k and more. Let’s take a look back at weeks 5 – 8 of Renu’s training.
Renu has been working hard to fit in the time for her workouts and training sessions. In Week 5, Renu shares how she and Nick had to reschedule their session to an early Saturday morning – a time when Renu says she is normally asleep. Early bird gets the worm!
Week 6 marks the halfway point of Renu’s Day One program, and Renu laces up her sneakers to give the 5K route a test run.
“I hadn’t run outside in awhile and it was really helpful because it kept me honest,” Renu said. “I had to run/walk more than I thought I would, but I’m looking forward to [race day].”
Week 7
FFC Registered Dietitian Kathy Chung has been working with Renu throughout her program, and Renu said she has started to make great changes in both what and when she eats.
One of the biggest changes Renu has made is adjusting her nutrition during a busy day.
“You don’t always have time to have a proper meal, so being able to stock your office with healthy things that you can grab without having to think is important,” Renu said.
Renu also learned the importance of eating before and after her workouts, and she hopes that her nutrition counseling with Kathy will help her continue to be more mindful about how she fuels her body.
“I think we’ve worked to help improve her relationship with food, [which in general] is our overall goal,” Kathy said. “We also worked on helping her fuel properly for her fitness, her workouts, her training sessions and hopefully her 5K.”
Week 8
During Week 8, we take an inside look at Renu’s training sessions with Nick. It’s the final week of training before the big race! Stay tuned to find out how Renu’s journey to run a 5K ends!
https://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Untitled-design-2.png14002280Sydney Meyerhttps://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Best-Gyms-In-Chicago-2025.pngSydney Meyer2022-06-08 15:13:032022-06-08 15:13:03Day One Journey: Renu Gears Up For Her 5K
In late 2021, we asked our members, “What’s Your Day One?” Dozens of members shared their 2022 fitness goals with us, and we chose four members to follow on their journeys from Day One to Goal Accomplished!Let’s meet one of those members: Renu!
Renu has been an FFC member for 26 years, and she applied for our Day One Program with the goal of running a 5k. Renu moved to Chicago from Atlanta, where she regularly ran 5k and 10k races, but Chicago’s cold weather has kept her from developing a regular running routine in recent years. She hopes that participating in our program will help her recommit to running.
“I haven’t run in a long time,” Renu said. “For me, it’s more of the process to get ready [to run a race] that is motivating to me.”
A lifelong exerciser, Renu enjoys yoga, cycling and swimming in addition to running.
“I’ve always exercised, however, the intensity and frequency have varied based on what’s happening in life,” Renu said.
After suffering an unexpected personal loss in 2020, Renu is excited to have this goal and this program as “an integral part of moving forward and starting a new chapter.” She aims to become physically and mentally stronger and be a role model of strength and resilience for her daughter and family.
“I just want to feel strong again,” Renu said. “I want to strive to be able to say, ‘This is the healthiest I’ve been’.”
Renu is also looking forward to having the support of the FFC community as she trains for race day.
“I think the pandemic has isolated so many people, and this [program provides] a community to be a part of that’s focused on being healthy.”
Week 1
As part of the Day One program, Renu is paired with FFC Personal Trainer Nick Rodriguez who will help her train for her upcoming race. Renu and Nick will train together for 12 weeks leading up to race day, and before her first training session, Renu said she felt “energized and eager and hopeful that [she] can match [her] energy with what [she’ll] be doing in the next three months.”
Nick said his priority for their first few training sessions together is to get to know Renu and her goals so he can build a program that will help her prepare for her race.
“It will be interesting to see how her endurance and her cardio is today and then in the next couple of months, how much that progresses,” Nick said.
With a big goal ahead of her, Renu is ready to get the ball rolling on her training.
“Anytime there is a big project or big task ahead of you, the best way to tackle it is to start. So that’s what I want to do: start and not overthink it,” Renu said.
During Week 2 of her program, Renu has her second training session with Nick.
“Nick said I have a lot more in me to unlock,” Renu said. “I’m already feeling a little bit better and I have a lot more that I am excited to explore.
Week 3
As Renu continues her training with Nick, she checks out the Recovery Lounge at FFC Gold Coast and tells us how she’s feeling so far.
“I’ll tell you, this program, it keeps you honest,” Renu said. “I’m trying, and I’m really excited and a little bit nervous if I’m going to be able to meet my goal, but we’ve got a plan and Nick is awesome.”
Week 4
In addition to her weekly training sessions, Renu receives monthly massages at the FFC Spa to help her relax and recover over the course of the program. In our week 4 episode, Renu shares the importance of massage in her routine.
“I’ve gotten [a massage] at the club before, and I’ve always wondered why I don’t do it more often,” Renu said. “It helps you to reset your mind and your body, and it’s nice to do it at a familiar place every time.”
In late 2021, we asked our members, “What’s Your Day One?” Dozens of members shared their 2022 fitness goals with us, and we chose four members to follow on their journeys from Day One to Goal Accomplished!Juan has completed his 12-week program – did he accomplish his goal to learn how to swim? Find out below.
In January, Juan began his 12-week journey to learn how to swim through our Day One program. In addition to weekly sessions in the pool with FFC Personal Trainer Joy Miles, Juan supplemented his training with nutrition counseling, massage and metabolic testing. Let’s take a look back at weeks 7 – 12 of Juan’s program.
Week 7
Just past the halfway point in his training, Juan had a breakthrough when he successfully made it the length of the pool kicking on his back without any assistance from his coach Joy. As Juan became more comfortable in the water, Joy began to introduce pieces of freestyle stroke into their training. Joy describes that Juan had an “Aha moment” during Week 7 of his training.
“He’s now realizing how much work it is in learning how to swim,” Joy said. “There’s a lot of things you need to consider when you’re in the water, versus when you’re on land.”
Breath, body orientation and knowing how to move your body in a constantly moving environment will remain high on their priority list as they continue their training sessions.
In Week 8, Juan takes a resting metabolic rate (RMR) test with one of our registered dietitians to learn more about his body’s metabolic needs.
By taking an RMR test, Juan learns how many calories his body burns in a typical day – first without factoring in any movement or exercise. The test also shows estimates for how many calories a person can expect to burn in a 30 minute workout. This information is valuable because it can help guide a person’s caloric needs for the day.
Based on the results of his test, Juan learned that his metabolism is 33% faster than that of the average person. Because he is swimming regularly and has a goal of adding lean muscle mass, the results of the RMR test help determine how many calories he should eat during a day to accomplish his personal goals.
Week 9
Juan takes another type of test during Week 9: a VO2 Max test. A VO2 Max test tells you the volume of oxygen you consume per minute, which is helpful to know if you are working on your endurance.
“[Because Juan] is currently in a swimming program, this goes hand in hand to get a better understanding of where his conditioning is at,” FFC Fitness Director Christopher Berlanga said.
VO2 tests are traditionally done on a treadmill or a stationary bicycle where the participant wears a mask connected to a machine that analyzes the body’s consumption of oxygen during exercise. This test can be repeated every 90 days to see how your level of physical conditioning has improved from your workout sessions.
Both the RMR and VO2 max test are performed at our FFC locations. For more information, email metabolictesting@ffc.com.
Week 10
With two weeks left in his training program, we check in with Juan to see how he’s feeling about completing his goal.
“I’m pretty confident that I am getting everything that comes along with swimming, so I’m going to put everything together and see what happens,” Juan said. “As we are wind down on the program, I am making extremely good progress, I feel, and I can’t wait to show everyone.”
Week 11
It’s the big day! Can Juan swim the length of the pool with the skills he has learned over the course of the program? Watch the video above to find out!
Week 12
As Juan’s journey comes to a close, we ask Juan and Joy to reflect on the last 12 weeks and discuss how far Juan has come in his journey to learn to swim.
“I feel 100 times better than when I started [swimming],” Juan said. “When I first started I was like, ‘Oh my God, am I going to be able to do this? Am I gonna drown?'”
From Juan’s first week to Week 12, Joy said she saw a “vast improvement” in Juan’s skills and comfortability in the pool.
“There’s still a lot to be done with going into a full freestyle stroke, but he knows that it’s a process and everyone’s learning curve is different,” Joy said. “He’s much more comfortable in the water, much more confident in the water than when he first started, so I’m very happy about that.”
Juan said the biggest surprise of learning how to swim is how involved every part of the body is.
“Every piece of your body has to be working on something at some moment,” Juan said. “Where are your glutes? Where are your legs? How are you kicking? Where are your arms? What is your breathing like? You have to worry about everything.”
So what’s next for Juan?
“Now that I have a new skill, I will be using it, improving on it and will see where it takes me, and [Joy], I’ll be calling you next month,” Juan said.
Congratulations on completing the Day One program and learning how to swim, Juan! We are so proud of the progress you’ve made and the skills you have learned.
We will be highlighting three more FFC members as they tackle their own Day One goals this year. Keep an eye out for new episodes weekly at youtube.com/FitnessFormulaClubs.
https://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Untitled-design.png14002280Sydney Meyerhttps://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Best-Gyms-In-Chicago-2025.pngSydney Meyer2022-04-15 11:15:532022-04-15 11:15:53Day One Journey: Juan’s Journey Comes To A Close
In late 2021, we asked our members, “What’s Your Day One?” Dozens of members shared their 2022 fitness goals with us, and we chose four members to follow on their journeys from Day One to Goal Accomplished!Juan is now halfway through his journey to learn to swim and we catch up with him below.
It’s been six weeks since Juan had his first private swimming lesson with FFC Personal Trainer Joy Miles. In these first six weeks of training, Juan has learned how to balance his body in the water, both on his back and prone with his face in the water, how to breathe comfortably in the water and how to develop his swim stroke. Let’s take a look back at weeks 3 – 6 of Juan’s training.
Week 3
During Week 3 of his journey, Juan takes us along as he prepares for his training session with Joy. Juan is also practicing on his own to work on the drills and skills Joy has been teaching during their sessions. With swim practice, “sometimes you’ve gotta dive right in,” Juan said.
In Week 4, Juan takes a trip to the FFC Spa to get his first Deep Tissue Massage with FFC Massage Therapist Michelle Mendoza. Michelle herself is a swimmer, and she said when she is working with swimmers, there is typically a pattern of tightness on the back of the body, including the glutes, shoulders and neck.
Michelle recommends that swimmers get a Deep Tissue Massage at least once a month if not twice a month.
“What you’re doing is bringing more blood to muscle groups with a deep tissue [massage],” she said. “The blood then is supplying those muscle tissues with more healing benefits.”
Massage can benefit everyone’s daily lives, and Juan is already looking forward to his next appointment.
“[The massage] went really well, it was very relaxing,” Juan said. “I will definitely do this again in the future.”
Week 5
Each of the participants in our Day One program is paired with a FFC Registered Dietitian to help guide them as they take on a new fitness routine. In Week 5, Juan meets with FFC Registered Dietitian McKayla Braender.
After his first meeting with McKayla, Juan had a number of takeaways, mainly that he needs to prioritize taking a lunch break during the work day and increase his protein intake.
McKayla asked Juan to keep a food journal to get a better idea of his eating habits, his likes and his dislikes in order to best individualize her nutrition guidance. This practice will also help Juan become more aware of his nutrition habits.
“She has taught me to be more mindful of what I’m eating and what nutritional value that could provide,” Juan said.
Because swimming is a total body workout that burns a lot of calories, McKayla said swimmers should focus on having a great pre-workout snack that is easily digestible – like a banana, apple sauce, a plain bagel or fruit snacks.
Post-workout, McKayla said swimmers should focus on refueling carbohydrate stores and adding in more fiber. Brown rice, whole wheat toast or whole wheat pasta are great choices to replenish energy stores when paired with a protein.
Week 6
As Juan reaches his halfway mark in Week 6, he shares that he is getting more comfortable in the water and can see that progress is being made.
“I feel more comfortable as a swimmer, thanks to my instructor Joy,” Juan said. “Joy’s taught me the importance of working with the water and not trying to fight against it.”
One of the things Joy suggested to help Juan get more comfortable putting his face in the water is to grab a large mixing bowl, fill it with water, put his face in the water with his goggles on and exhale out in the water.
After he is more comfortable with breathing in the water, Joy will be working on stroke development with Juan.
“I feel great about the program so far,” Juan said. “I feel like I am gaining new life skills, and we’ll see how it all plays out in the end!”
https://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Untitled-design-2-1-1.png14002280Sydney Meyerhttps://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Best-Gyms-In-Chicago-2025.pngSydney Meyer2022-02-17 15:31:312022-02-17 15:31:31Day One Journey: Checking In With Juan At The Halfway Mark
In late 2021, we asked our members, “What’s Your Day One?” Dozens of members shared their 2022 fitness goals with us, and we chose four members to follow on their journeys from Day One to Goal Accomplished!First up, let’s meet Juan!
Juan joined the FFC Family in 2012 after graduating from college. Over the years, Juan has worked on and off with a personal trainer and has also come to the club for cardio and lifting workouts on his own. One thing he hasn’t tried in his 10 years of membership with FFC? Swimming.
“Usually when I’m in a pool, I’m holding an alcoholic beverage,” Juan said with a laugh.
In his submission video, Juan said that it has been his goal to learn how to swim since joining the club.
“I have not achieved that goal yet, but I’m hoping that you all can help me learn how to swim and lead a healthier lifestyle of having that routine of swimming,” Juan said.
Typically, Juan hits the gym about three times a week, but he had a busy few months near the end of 2021 in his career as a Data Analytics Manager. By learning how to swim with our Day One program, Juan hopes that swimming will give him another reason to visit the club regularly.
“I also want to learn how to swim just to have a new life skill,” Juan said. “Global warming, riding sea tides, you never know,” he joked.
Each of the participants in our Day One program is paired with a FFC Personal Trainer to help them achieve their goals. Juan is paired with Joy Miles, a 40+-time triathlete who has worked at FFC as a Personal Trainer for more than 12 years.
“I love teaching people, especially adults, how to learn to swim,” Joy said.
Joy learned how to swim just three months before her first triathlon, and her advice to new swimmers is to get in the pool often.
“Swimming is more technical than golf,” Joy said. “If you can get into the pool at least three times a week when you’re first learning how to swim, your swim IQ is going to jump dramatically, versus just swimming once a week.”
During her first sessions with Juan, Joy introduced some balance drills and helped him get comfortable with putting his face in the water, which she said is one of the biggest learning curves for people when they are learning to swim.
“One of my homework assignments for [Juan] is to get the largest mixing bowl that you have, fill it with water, put your goggles on, and put your face in the water,” Joy said. “Exhale out in the water and turn your head to get that air.”
After he is more comfortable with breathing in the water, Joy will be working on stroke development with Juan. She said she is excited to be working with someone who is motivated and who is taking their swim lessons seriously.
“His attitude is really good, really positive for this because he wants to do this,” Joy said. “And that makes all the difference when it comes to learning how to swim.”
Joy is confident in Juan’s abilities to reach his goal, and Juan is looking forward to seeing how the program progresses over these 12 weeks.
“This is my first time doing something like this,” Juan said. “I just want to fully take it all in, learn a new skill and hopefully be up in the pool every day working out and getting my summer body in shape.”
Watch below for a sneak peek on all 4 of our Day One participants!
https://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Untitled-design-2.png14002280Sydney Meyerhttps://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Best-Gyms-In-Chicago-2025.pngSydney Meyer2022-01-17 16:15:252022-01-17 16:15:25Day One Journey: Meet Juan
Member Krys Rollins shares how she and her kids like to stay active, her motivations behind her healthy lifestyle, and the biggest takeaways she’s learned from working with FFC Oak Park Personal Trainer Keon Hackney.
You’ve been a member at FFC for about 2 years! What made you decide to become a member?
I’m so proud to have been a member for almost 2 years now. I decided to join because I needed a little more than what I could do at home on my own. I had some basic equipment and a yoga mat that I would use at 6 AM before my kids woke up. My workouts and diet were good, but I wanted to level up.
Also, I needed a fitness facility that offered childcare services and amenities that my kids and I could enjoy. The hot tub, pool, kids club and rock climbing walls attracted me to FFC versus other facilities, and we enjoy them often!
What is your favorite way to stay active? Do you love weightlifting, group fitness classes, cardio, a little bit of everything?
My favorite is a variety. I have learned from a variety of great teachers and physical therapists that the best way to stay active and get fit is variety – to keep challenging the body in different ways, working different muscle groups, and to hit the little muscles.
My personal routine is alternating weight and cardio workouts Monday, Wednesday, and Friday with yoga Tuesdays and Thursdays during the week. I do Bikram (hot yoga) once per week on Saturdays and take a day off on Sunday. (And, by day off, I mean watch the kids rock climb then we get in the pool and hot tub!). Every now and then my schedule is too busy and I miss one workout during the week, and that is okay. Zero guilt because my overall routine is good and my trainer, Keon, has taught me that when you are working hard and smart, occasional rest days are good for you.
You’re working with personal trainer Keon Hackney. What do you love about your training sessions with Keon, and what has been your biggest takeaway from working with a personal trainer?
Keon is awesome. Keon has expert-level knowledge about the body and his workout regimens are very intricate. He includes the tiniest or even awkward movements that we do not generally use in our daily lives. He absolutely pushes me and always serves up a well-rounded, whole-body workout where I leave feeling great and never so sore I cannot work out again 1-2 days later.
I have several big takeaways from working with Keon: mainly that a fitness regime should be efficient, diverse, and sustainable.
Efficient in that I do not need to work out 7 days per week or even for 90-120 minutes per day. That is over doing it when one could be lifting heavier and working smarter. Keon has reduced my cardio time and greatly increased my time with resistance and weights.
Diverse in that I should throw in these crazy, tiny movements he teaches me – which involve posing like a frog or getting on the floor and crawling or zombie slides and push-ups. (Where does he come up with this stuff?!?). Keon has incorporated a lot of overheard work as well as getting horizontal for me, and my upper body feels stronger than ever before.
Sustainability matters. If I am in so much pain I can’t work out again 24-48 hours later, chances are I might get injured and even bigger that it is not a sustainable regime for my body and I may fall off altogether.
In addition to getting horizontal and performing those crazy, tiny movements, Keon has me work out in socks only, no shoes. This is another way to hit those tiny muscles and improve our posture. Now, even on the days I work out on my own, I am continuing those awesome moves Keon taught me and working out without shoes on.
Are you working toward any specific health or fitness goals? If so, would you mind sharing what those goals are and how your progress is coming along?
My goal was to level up, and I feel I am doing just that. My diet is pretty solid and has helped me keep my BMI in the healthy range since my early 20s. My freshman year of college, I blinked and gained 20 pounds. That was 18 years and three pregnancies ago. Today, I am 40 pounds lighter than that max weight and have sustained this healthy weight for almost 10 years now.
I am proud of this progress, but I also wanted to tone. My genes dictate a body type that is curvier and a little more voluptuous than mainstream standards. I embrace my body type as my own and want to ensure I have healthy joints and bone density. I used to jog and do more cardio and had IT band syndrome consistently. Since working with Keon, I feel more toned, see more definition, and have minimal IT band symptoms.
What motivates you to come to the club and stay consistent with your workouts?
I am a BIPOC female, mother and family nurse practitioner. I am motivated by feeling good, firstly, as it sets my whole day and my outlook. I am also motivated to support all women and people of color to feel good physically and mentally, with no regard for any single idolized body type.
Both sides of my genetic tree have high rates of type 2 diabetes, obesity, and dying young of chronic, preventable disease. While I carry that genetic predisposition, I have the power to stay healthy and active to reduce my own risks. I also see a lot of patients progressively gain weight during their adult life or progressively after having children to end up heavier than they were while pregnant. I am motivated to spread the message that with a healthy diet and working smart – whether that be at home before the kids wake up with little financial expense, or in a gym like FFC – we can reduce chronic disease, live stronger, and feel better.
https://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Untitled-design-1.png14002800Sydney Meyerhttps://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Best-Gyms-In-Chicago-2025.pngSydney Meyer2021-04-20 13:48:152021-04-20 13:48:15Member Stories: How Variety In Movement And Modality Helps Krys Rollins Feel Her Best
Member Jennifer Bruno shares how she found community at FFC East Lakeview and learned the power of accepting help when it’s offered.
What made you decide to join FFC East Lakeview in July 2019?
At the time, I had been a member of another gym for about two years. I first joined in 2017 after deciding I needed to make a change. At first, I was very excited to start a workout routine but after a while, that excitement disappeared and I found myself going back to old habits. In June of 2019, a friend of mine joined FFC and highly recommended it so I thought I’d give it a try. The first time I went in for a workout at Lakeview, I immediately felt welcome. The trainers and staff were excited to have me. They always greeted me by name, even before I knew some of theirs.
Even now, every time I walk in to FFC, I’m welcomed by an entire staff of people that make me feel like I belong, like I’m part of the crew. They ask how I’m doing and take an interest in what I’m working on that day. It makes me so happy when I can tell them I’ve lost another pound or mastered a new workout. The encouragement I get from them is priceless. My old gym didn’t seem to think these minor details were important, but it’s made all the difference for me.
Since you’ve become a member, you’ve lost 50 pounds! What did you do both inside and outside of the gym to achieve these results?
Inside the gym, I work with a trainer [Kate Malcolm] twice a week. We’ve worked together since the first week I was a member and without her, I wouldn’t be where I am. She’s kept me motivated and encouraged all this time, and I still feel the same excitement for my future that I felt on day one. During our sessions, we do strength training using weights and machines. Three to four days a week, I work out on my own which usually consists of cardio, using the treadmill and elliptical. Every workout is an hour long, sometimes more when I can.
When I started at FFC, my health was at a low point. I decided to make it my number one priority, and while there are several distractions that come up in life, my health is my main focus. Therefore outside of the gym, I connect what I’m doing to the efforts I put in at the gym. I try to get enough sleep, drink plenty of water and eat foods that give me good energy. Most of my meals consist of a good bit of protein and vegetables. Possibly the biggest food change I made was a 6-month commitment to not eat pasta or noodles of any kind in the last half of 2019. Back in July, it seemed unlikely that I would actually see it through but now that I’m on the other side, it’s easy to say no. I don’t crave my old favorite pasta dishes anymore and don’t really have any interest in eating it, possibly ever again. That’s saying a lot for someone who used to eat it several times a week.
You train with Master Trainer Kate Malcolm at FFC East Lakeview. What is the biggest takeaway you have from working with Kate?
Something Kate has said to me several times is to “trust the process.” Every time I felt like this wasn’t working, she’d prove to me that if I just kept trying, I’d see results. I’m confident in saying if it wasn’t for Kate, I would have given up long ago. She’s been my biggest supporter and teacher of all things fitness. Having someone in my life who’s as committed to my progress as I am is so helpful in motivating me to make good choices even when no one’s watching.
Personal training has without a doubt changed me. Sure, I’ve lost 50 pounds so I look different, but this change is not just physical. Training has changed the way I think. It’s taught me the importance of exercise, and how pairing training with the right foods and adequate rest results in an increase in energy and confidence and more effective workouts. These are things I already knew but somehow took me years to understand.
Tell us about your experience using your Myzone heart rate monitor. What role did it play in your weight loss journey?
I started using the Myzone belt a couple weeks after joining FFC. Myzone seems more accurate than most other monitors since it sits in the middle of the chest. I use it to monitor my heart rate during workouts and get an idea of what moves are taking the most work for me to do. I also use it to compare workouts so I can see how I’m progressing through the weeks. Kate and I joke that she can keep an eye on me on the days we don’t meet using the Myzone app. But all joking aside, it is a good way for her to see what I’m doing when I’m on my own so she knows how to tailor our workouts together.
One surprising thing I’ve noticed about Myzone is the crazy battery it has inside of it. We’re going on seven months of use and I have yet to charge it. When I opened the box, it had about 70% battery and it’s still at 50% now. Come to think of it, I’m not exactly sure where the charger is right now but luckily, I probably have a good 10 months to find it.
What advice would you give to someone who isn’t seeing results yet from their efforts? What motivates you to continue to work toward your goals?
Be patient, refocus as often as you need to, and most importantly; don’t quit! The fact is, it’s hard to push yourself to make lifestyle changes. Every day is a struggle. Every workout hurts. Every meal is an internal battle. But it can be done and it’s absolutely worth it. It’s worth the struggle, the inconvenience, the sore muscles, all of it. You’ll feel better. You’ll share in activities you couldn’t before. You’ll open a whole new world of experiences to yourself. All I’m saying is try. Try sticking with it and you might be surprised where you end up.
There have been several times where I wasn’t seeing a difference despite my hard work, and it still happens now. My process has been to reevaluate and adjust. Add more cardio here, maybe less queso here… To be honest, it happens a couple times a week. I mess up, but the beautiful thing is every new day gives me another chance to get up and try again. It takes time but eventually those good habits stick and consistency pays off. You will see results if you keep working. I can promise you that.
As far as the motivation to keep going, it really comes down to just having a desire to be better. It took years to figure out, but I’ve realized that where I was six months ago is not what I want. I want to be healthy and fit. I want to feel good in my own skin, to walk through this beautiful city without pain. Exercise is the way to get those things. So I show up. I work hard. I make better choices. But maybe most importantly, I accept help when it’s offered. We all need help when we’re starting out and most people are happy to help. The trainers at FFC have dedicated their professional lives to that very thing, and I’m grateful to them for their encouragement, support and knowledge these last six months. I absolutely wouldn’t have made it this far without them.
My time at FFC and with Kate has taught me more than I could have imagined going in. My only wish is that I had done this sooner. But there’s no time for regrets. I’ve got another 50 pounds to lose in 2020 so going forward, my focus is on staying the course, putting in the work, and as Kate would say “trusting the process.” And anyone reading this can do it, too.
https://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/dumbbells-measuring-tape-water-and-apple-top-view-3LZ4USA.jpg7201440Sydney Meyerhttps://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Best-Gyms-In-Chicago-2025.pngSydney Meyer2020-03-19 08:00:102020-03-19 08:00:10Member Stories: How Jennifer Bruno Learned To ‘Trust The Process’ To Achieve Results
In honor of Fitness Formula Clubs celebrating its 35th
anniversary, FFC marketing manager Megan Zink had the opportunity to sit down
with one of FFC’s long-time charter members, Dr. Gordy Siegel, and learn a
little bit about his experience in the community.
This interview has been lightly edited for brevity.
Megan Zink: You’ve been a member of FFC for quite some time. Since then, has it been part of a regular routine for you, or has it kind of ebbed and flowed? First of all, not many people can say they go to the gym on a regular basis, but you’ve been going to FFC for a while.
Dr. Gordy Siegel: It’s a very important part of my
life.
MZ: Do you have any favorite kind of workouts? What
do you usually do?
DGS: Watch a lot of TV, get a lot to eat – no. I just
kind of do a little bit of this, a little bit of that, trying to stay healthy.
It’s nice to see the new machines come in every so often. I watch other people
to see what they’re doing, and if I think I can do it without killing myself, I’ll
try it.
MZ: So do you think going to FFC on a regular basis
has changed you, or given benefit to your life?
DGS: I think it’s aged me a lot.
MZ: Backwards!
DGS: I don’t know that it’s changed me so much as
allowed me to enjoy life and stay healthy. I would imagine that without it, I
probably wouldn’t have some of the advantages I do in terms of health.
MZ: Has anything notable happened while you’ve been
there?
DGS: I remember Sundays – this goes back a while – I was watching a bunch of people play basketball. And one of them looked familiar. And I am NOT a sports person, by the way. You say the name of a team and I might know what sport they play. But that’s as far as it goes.
And there was a guy on the court, and I said to myself, ‘you know, he looks familiar…’ It was Michael Jordan. He used to come over and play pickup games with people at the gym. I guess he had a place on Lakeshore Drive and he would come over every so often – that’s kind of memorable.
It’s just a nice, nice place to go. I’m probably your best
advertiser around. Over the years I’ve actually tried a number of different
places – I’ve never left FFC – but FFC is just a nice place with nice people.
MZ: That’s part of the reason I started focusing on
the stories so much – everyone you meet is just so nice!
DGS: And we span generations. Little kids like you,
old farts like me. Everything in between.
I don’t know if Larry told you how I joined?
MZ: No, but I was very curious.
DGS: For years I had said that I should join a gym to
be healthy. So then I heard FFC was opening up and I thought, ‘well, you know,
I’ll walk over and at least give it a try.’ And I got hooked.
You feel better. I think it’s pretty universal. Days that I
go – it’s not just physical – you mentally feel better. In many ways. If I get
into a situation where I get busy – sometimes I’ll miss a week – you can feel a
difference. Definitely feel a difference. It’s a passion. I fell in love.
MZ: So if you had to name a couple of top favorite
things about FFC, what would they be?
DGS: Location. The location is very good for me. I’d
have to say the people. And going that early in the morning – it’s not like
people sit around and have a social hour. That being said, most of us who are there
when the place opens up know each other. Maybe just by first name, but over the
years you get to know people. And the more you get to know people, the more you
like them. Very few jerks over the years. I guess it’s a combination of the
facilities, the people – it’s a good, healthy feeling.
You feel better. I think it’s pretty universal. Days that I go – it’s not just physical – you mentally feel better. In many ways. If I get into a situation where I get busy – sometimes I’ll miss a week – you can feel a difference. Definitely feel a difference. It’s a passion. I fell in love.
https://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Interview-With-Longtime-FFC-Member-Dr-Gordy-Siegel-FFC-Chicago.jpg7001140Sydney Meyerhttps://ffc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Best-Gyms-In-Chicago-2025.pngSydney Meyer2019-09-11 10:53:152019-09-11 10:53:15Member Stories: An Interview with Long-Time FFC Member Dr. Gordy Siegel
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