Stu's Story

May 12th 2008

Thanks Fierce Fitness!

My wife, and I are current members of Fierce Fitness. Becky joined in April of 2006 and I in September 2007. Even our daughter, Alyson, has participated when home during college breaks. It has been a wonderful experience but in the beginning... well, here’s my story:

I am a 55 year-old couch potato who enjoys a wide range of culinary delights, micro brews and fine wine. I’ve never been one to exercise and, as do most of us of my generation, had not considered myself getting old. Sure, my legs ached occasionally and I had a perennial back issue but all that is normal, isn’t it? I really didn’t remember when I stopped being able to hold my arms above my head for any length of time without stabbing pains in both shoulders, but I had learned to avoid that position.

Then my wife talked me into trying this kickboxing thing. I begrudgingly agreed knowing full well I’d go a few times, show her I was in “OK’ shape and then return to the bliss of my sedentary ways.

My first session was quite the eye opener. I started with confidence and verve. I gave it everything I had punching jumping twisting kicking lunging flailing like a mad man. I was awesome for about 10 minutes before the pounding of my heart was drowned out by me gasping for air. So down I sat and waited for the world to stop spinning and return to focus. I was not in “OK” shape. Sigh.

Six months later, I still attend 3 days a week. I can make it through our hour-long session, and though sometimes just barely, it always feels good. My legs don’t ache my back is not a problem and I have full range motion in my shoulders. I’m still an avid couch potato who loves his culinary delights, micro brews and fine wine but now I don’t grunt when I get off the sofa. Best of all I don’t seem to jiggle as much as I used to.

Candice, Sophia, Master Johnson and Mr. Killian have created an engaging atmosphere that is both challenging and rewarding. Their commitment is obvious and their enthusiasm infectious. My Family is grateful to Fierce Fitness for showing us exercise actually can be fun (did I really say that?)

My advice to anyone who asks, “Just try it.”

Stu F.