Lisa C
My name is Lisa Czapracki, I’m 45 years old and I’m a first-grade teacher. I joined Marino’s in July of 2018. At 41 years old, I was unhappy with my weight and knew if I did not start exercising and taking better care of myself, a few extra pounds was going to be only the start of health problems. I Googled “best type of exercise for women over 40” that night. Strength training came up. When I looked at gyms in the area, Marino’s was one of them. I walked in the next day to check the place out. I appreciated the attentiveness from the staff right from the very start. I had no desire to even shop around.
Staying active with my teenage sons makes me proud. Although they are often quicker or faster, we enjoy doing activities outdoors together. Before working out at the gym, I either was winded after just a few minutes or barely had the energy to get started, let alone keep up with them.
Since this was my first experience at a gym, I could not even do simple exercises correctly. The staff has always watched me closely and let me know how to tweak what I am doing so that I not only do not hurt myself, but also get the maximum benefit from each exercise. I appreciate the variety in the individualized programs that change monthly so I am working the same muscles but not always doing the same exercises.
The culture at Marino’s is best described as my second family. The staff cares about more than just helping me become physically stronger. They know about my family, my ups and downs in life and will often ask me about something specific. When they ask, “How are you doing?” they actually listen to your response and offer positive, encouraging advice when needed.
The atmosphere of the gym is overall positive, comfortable, and relaxed. This is more than just a place to exercise. The personal attention and care for your whole self is hands down, top notch. I truly feel cared for.
Three things you should know about Marino’s:
1. If you make a goal, they will help you achieve it through an individualized program and attention. You will eventually get the results you desire if you follow the plan they suggest. Just remember – change happens slowly over time. Be patient.
2. Change happens often. Whether it is getting a new program, equipment being added or rearranged, or adding a smoothie bar – change is constant here. It’s a good thing. It keeps everything fresh.
3. Safety is a top priority.
Marino’s has absolutely exceeded my expectations! I have learned being healthy is about more than just being a certain weight. I need to make physical and mental health a top priority so I can be the best “me” for my family and students. The Marino’s staff reminds me of this when I forget and gently nudges me in a better direction.
Here is just one example of how the staff is supportive in a life situation. I have recently been feeling overwhelmed with finances. As a single mom, I have always been able to provide yet not always feeling like I had a strong handle on my finances. Over the past six months, James took the time to share advice that helped me make small changes that would be benefit me over the long run. He purchased two books for me that he thought would be valuable, encouraging me to start with small steps – read at least a page a day. I used the information he shared with me and what I learned in the books. I am not only tracking my spending, but now I know what the percentage rates of my current loans are and have refinanced my house this summer lowering my interest almost 1 ½%. This allowed me to come up with a two-year plan to pay off my debt so I can solely focus on my mortgage and retirement.
I truly feel that the Marino’s family cares about my well-being and want me to be successful not only in the gym but in life. Thank you for helping to make me stronger!
