Tom Phillips has literally changed my body with kettle bells. I spent many years in different gyms with different machines and different trainers until I found Tom. The kettle bells intrigued me because it was something different. At first it seemed like I was just using my arms to throw around a metal ball. Through Tom's expert instruction I learned how to shift my weight and throw my body into the movements rather than my arms. I have increased my core strength and have really seen results. What sets Tom apart from other trainers is his ability to "teach". So much of training is mental. Tom really focuses his training on how you should feel during the movement than just teaching the motion. He has a unique ability to relate his examples and make a light bulb go off so you really understand what he is saying. This is what makes Tom an excellent "instructor" rather than just another trainer.
Sandi Moffet -Marlboro, NJ

After meeting Tom at an Olympic meet earlier this year, I finally got around to getting a few sessions to learn basic kettlebell skills. What I got from Tom was so much more. In only a few sessions, he taught me so much, I thought I was at a 3 day seminar! He really has a knack for teaching. He was very intelligent about focusing in on my strengths and weaknesses and was very clear in instructing me correctly.
With a few words and examples he gave me a greater understanding of all the strength lifts, things only a great coach can teach you, even after you've spent a number of years lifting and reading dozens of books.
Tom is basically my coach now, I'm going to visit him as frequently as possible. I'm also very confident in reaching my 3x bodyweight deadlift soon with his coaching.
Neal Snyder - Queens, NY

I recently bought some kettlebells and was looking for a trainer to improve my techniques. Thomas has an extensive knowledge of all the lifts and was easily able to both demonstrate and convey what I was aiming for in each movement. Thomas brings a positive energy to each session. I would recommend Thomas to anyone who is looking to take their workouts to the next level.
Brian Bannan

I’ve trained at Fit-For-Life for almost two years.  The level of attention I receive is unparalleled, that’s why I’ve trained with them so consistently, I never miss a session. 
At 46, I understand the work that’s involved just to stay in shape.  With the Fit for Life system, I’ve exceeded my expectations and reestablish new goals on a regular basis.
The trainers treat me like a friend, I never feel like a “client.”   The staff is unbelievably knowledgeable, caring and motivating.  I never feel inadequate or embarrassed; on the contrary I always leave feeling accomplished.  They are honest, caring and hard working people. 
I initially came to Fit for Life to improve my physical fitness, what I received was a life transformation. 
Dr. Nick Despotidis - Marlboro, NJ

My training sessions are on Wednesday evenings, and I can honestly say I look forward to it during the day.  Of course the workout is always very challenging, but the consistent euphoric feeling I get afterward is almost addictive!  No matter how stressed I may be during the day, I always feel improved afterwards.
Perhaps the most important point to make would be that as a sports medicine physician, I am aware of the harm that can be caused by inappropriate exercise.  Thomas Phillips and his staff have extraordinary knowledge of appropriate safe exercise while also providing an extremely challenging workout.  I feel safe sending my patients to him, which says a lot!
Dr. Carol Eisenberg, D.O. - Medical Director
Garden State Spine & Pain Institute

I have been training at Fit for life for about a year with kettlebells and have lost over 20 lbs. of fat!  I can’t say enough good things about the trainers and the level of attention I receive each and every workout.  I have a hectic lifestyle that limits my training to only once or twice a week; however, the kettlebell workouts have kept the wieght off and my overall fitness surprisingly high.  If you have not trained with kettlebells you don't know what you are missing.  The most fun I have ever had working out! 
Vincent Puma -Marlboro, NJ

"I have personally seen incredible gains in strength, power and flexibility with kettlebells.  There is no other exercise that allows you to gain functional strength that will carry over into athletic competition.  If you haven’t had the chance, go see one of the trainers at Fit for life . . . you won’t be disappointed!!"
Dr. Joe Cilea -Marlboro, NJ

I have been training with kettlebells for over a year with Thomas at Fit for life.  I have lost over 20 lbs of fat and put on nearly 10 lbs of lean mass.  At 42 years old I am in the best shape of my life!  I can honestly say I look forward to waking up in the morning to go train.  The results and enthusiastic atmosphere keep me motivated.   I would highly recommend Thomas' services to anyone.  His kettlebell training is top-notch.
Robert Federici -Marlboro, NJ

I have been teaching the martial arts for over 20 years and have trained with many people. It is not often that you meet a trainer who not only has a passion for fitness but a passion for people. Tom is just that person. He walks his talk and is a living example of his program and training philosophy. If you are serious about achieving results, whether you are an athlete looking to improve your game or if you are just looking to improve your level of fitness Tom has both the knowledge and desire to get you there.
Bryan Klein -4th Degree Black Belt
Co-founder United Taekwondo Academies
www.discoveruta.com

Dear Tom,
As a former strength, conditioning, and boxing coach at the Bergen County P.A.L. and a self-employed chiropractor of 25 years, I have had the opportunity of attending a multitute of seminars and hands-on training programs with some of the top educators in the country, but few have impressed me as you have. Your combination of knowledge, teaching skills, and confidence will unquestionably lead you to the top of your profession.
I look forward to training with you again.
Bos Spina, DC, BC, CSCS

I just turned 50 in December and I feel better and stronger now than I have ever felt. I would have never imaged that I could squat over 300lbs. I owe all this to Tom, and my wife of course for introducing me to him. We have been going to Tom for over 2 years now. Tom's approach to training effects not only the body but the mind as well as diet. Tom tailors each work-out to your specific needs and limitations, always challenging you to be the very best, the work-outs are intense, no b/s. That why he gets results. Tom, thanks for helping me and Kathy as well, and most importantly for being a FRIEND.
Phil D’Ambrisi - Marlboro, NJ

I have had the pleasure of training with Tom Philips for the past 2 years. In that time, Tom has totally changed the way I look, as well as the way I feel about myself. He has motivated me to achieve goals that I thought were completely out of reach. He teaches you not only the aspects of weight training, but motivates you to excel in all aspects of life. In closing, he does this with a fantastic sense of humor.
Victor Novogrodzky - Marlboro, NJ

I never had the patience for regimented weight training, but four years ago, my wife dragged me in to start training with Tom. He created a total fitness program which has included different combinations of isometrics, kettles bells and strength training exercises. In combination with the Fit For Life nutrition principles and Tom's training program I lost 17 ugly pounds (mostly gut) over a two year period and went from 21.6 percent body fat to 15.9% (and still dropping) while picking up muscle mass. I've since knocked off a century ride (100 miles), run a half marathon and a high altitude triathlon, and am currently training for a full marathon in March 2008. There is no doubt that I could not have done this without the proper training techniques that Tom has developed for me. When I visited my orthopedic for a pair of orthotics, he complimented my leg muscle structure as superb and rare to see among long distance runners. The compliments go to TOM. Thanks to him, I'm a weight training convert.
Mike Solondz - Colts Neck, NJ

I met Tom in May of 2006. Through his unique teaching techniques, he has slowly changed my mind and my body. His dedication to his clients is second to none! I have gained so much physical strength and endurance by training with him. Through his knowledge, I have acquired so much self confidence. The impact he has made in my life cannot be described in words. Thank you so very much for this wonderful opportunity to train with you!
Rimma Galitsky -Marlboro, NJ

Tom introduced me to kettlebell training two years and 25lbs ago! The workout is extremely intense, and with Tom, the instruction is always tailored to each of his client's abilities and goals. No other workout I have ever experienced has yielded the results that kettlebell training provides. Tom Phillips is extremely successful as a trainer for his positive attitude, high energy, and genuine personal interest he takes in helping his clients reach their training objectives.
Mike West - Holmdel, NJ

Even though I've been weight training most of my adult life I now realize that I did not understand the meaning of "strength and conditioning". I always believed that if you lifted weights, ran and stretched you were going to maintain a good level of physical fitness. However, as I aged, all three of these activities became more difficult each year. I was in a constant state of recuperation from a recent injury, strain or pain. I was starting to develop hip and shoulder problems that prevented me from walking pain free during a round of golf.
It was soon after my 45th birthday that I started training with Tom Phillips and started to learn that strength and condition was not a series of disconnected exercises but a coordinated program to improve all aspects of physical health. Tom constantly monitors my physical state, level of performance, and personal goals to adjust my workout program. With Tom's help I was able to obtain a level of fitness that allows me to not only enjoy my favorite physical activities but maintain an overall fit for life state of well-being. I highly recommend Tom as a personal trainer.
John Mac - Freehold, NJ

Last Christmas my wife gave me a gift of 10 personal training sessions with Tom Phillips. It has turned out to be the equivalent of a new bike to a ten year old. During the last year Tom has taught me exercises to strengthen my body and most especially my back, and I can now do things that I was not able to do for the last twenty years. Tom pinpointed the areas that I needed to improve and set-up routines that would help me achieve fantastic results. I have been training on a weekly basis with Tom for the last year and will continue to for the coming year and beyond.
Kevin Ridgway - Marlboro, New Jersey

I have been training with Tom Phillips for quite some time. He makes the otherwise arduous process fun and I look forward to the sessions. At the same time it is enjoyable he will push you to levels of achievement you would otherwise not think possible. However, in doing so, great concern will be paid to your current ability and avoidance of injury. I am certainly not alone in these thoughts as most of his clients are very long term clients.
Aaron Fischer - Marlboro, New Jersey

I recently bought some kettlebells and was looking for a trainer to improve my techniques. Thomas has an extensive knowledge of all the lifts and was easily able to both demonstrate and convey what I was aiming for in each movement. Thomas brings a positive energy to each session. I would recommend Thomas to anyone who is looking to take their workouts to the next level.
Brian Bannan - New York, NY

My daughter is a multiple sport athlete in high school. She's been been training with Tom for 7 months. Since training with Tom, she has shown dramatic improvement in strength and conditioning. In addition, Tom has also included speed & agility training, focusing on techniques which not only improve performance, but concentrate on general movement to reduce risk of injury. We couldn't be happier with his efforts.
Chuck - Marlboro NJ

I have personally seen incredible gains in strength, power and flexibility with kettlebells. There is no other exercise that allows you to gain functional strength that will carry over into athletic competition. If you haven’t had the chance, go see Thomas Phillips . . . you won’t be disappointed!!!
Dr. Joe Cilea - Marlboro, NJ

Tom Phillips is truly the best! He is a very self les person that really cares about his clients and their progress, you really do not get to find many trainers like that. When me and my father came to him some four years ago, we did not know what to expect. However, when we came to him routinely on Sundays he would always provide one hundred and ten percent of his attention and focus into your progress, it was great.
I was a freshman in high school with very little meat on my bones. I wanted to get stronger and bigger, and he helped me do that. He didn’t just wiz by the routines each week, instead he stressed each exercise and what they where doing. Then he gave me a routine to perform at home.
Even though I am now a freshman in college, I still keep in touch with him. Since I am still not an expert on weight training and I still want to gain weight, I email him every quarter to change my routing. This semester I can proudly say I have went from to weighing 158 to weighing 180.. .in muscle. Thanks to his kindness, motivation, and perseverance with my progress I am living a more fulfilling life!!
Thanks Tom!
Nick - Philadelphia, PA

I have been training with Tom for 2 years and I cannot believe the impact he has had on my physical shape and mental attitude towards working out. At 51 years old I am in better shape now then I was 20 years ago. Tom's no nonsense approach to training helps to keep me focused on achieving my long term fitness goals.
Thanks Tom, I appreciate all that you do for me.
Gary - Manalapan, NJ

I began working with Tom Phillips about three months ago and it has been the most valuable and enjoyable life change I have experienced. Working with Tom is a pleasure. He is not only extremely knowledgeable but he motivates you to get the most out of the time you spend with him. I look forward to our weekly sessions and I not only feel a physical change but I feel better about myself and have been encouraged to live a much healthier physical and mental lifestyle. I have joined numerous gyms in the past and never made a long-term commitment to any of them. I can honestly say that I will continue to work with Tom as long as I am physically capable. I couldn’t recommend anyone with more enthusiasm, and I encourage anyone who is looking to become physically and mentally better people to see Tom Phillips!!
Jason Hand - Manalapan, NJ

I am a 45year old former Triathlete and Kickboxer who trained intensely in 5 different martial arts forms. In 1997 I injured my hip & lower back kickboxing. I could barely tie my shoes without pain. After numerous Doctors, Chiropractors and Therapists I virtually gave up. In 2004 I met and started training with Tom. Four months later I had full mobility and freedom back with no pain. Tom is an exceptional trainer with a real focus on an individuals needs. He is able to change and adjust routines to keep things fun and interesting. I am probably stronger now than I was in my 20s. I would recommend Tom to the beginner or professional athlete alike. I continue to work out to Tom on a regular basis.
Thanks Tom.
Doug Thaler - New York, New York

Working with Tom has been the best experience I've ever had to date, he brought out the best in me by challenging me in doing certain workouts that I never thought I would be able to do. He not only fits in the best workouts suitable to you but also has new workouts, that make things more interesting. He slowly and steadily builds the self confidence in you and brings out the best. I continue to workout with Tom and would highly recommend him. He's the 'Guru' of fitness.
Monish Thakur - Marlboro

Driving force, source of power, motivating and enthusiasm. These are some of the qualities Tom exudes. More importantly these are the qualities that I exude having trained with Tom the past 3 years.
Tom has shaped my body into muscle I could never imagine existed. Training with kettlebells, pushing sleds and cardio has been the standard by which I start my day. I have seen many videos and witnessed many trainers who don't expect the high standards that Tom exemplifies.
NIX THE BIGGEST LOSER, THOMAS PHILLIPS IS THE REAL DEAL.
Jeff Strumeier - Marlboro, NJ

I started working with Tom four months after having my second child and returning to my full time career. I was always physically active but after gaining 50 pounds with each pregnancy, suffering knee and hip pain and managing a challenging career, I was in need of some help. I was shocked by Tom's willingness to train me at very early and late hours. His dedication to his clients and their goals is unmatched. His personality and individual strength are an inspiration and certainly got me to 5:45 am sessions! In only five months, I was pre-pregnancy weight and leaner, stronger and healthier with the ability to take on my two babies and have all the energy I needed to succeed in my work. I've never spent a cent so worthwhile. Tom is priceless! My husband, my kids and I thank him!
Karyn Lollin - Monroe Township, New Jersey

My name is Alan Dubowy DVM
Born in NYC October 28, 1945
Grewup on Long Island
Graduated from Elmont Memorial HS 1963
Studied Veterinary Medicine at Michigan State University and recieved my degree in 1968. Practiced small animal medicine on Staten Island and was the veterinarian for the NYC Mounted Police, until coming to NJ in 1982. At this time, my practice, Community Animal Hospital, is located in Union Beach. Through the years I was an avid equestian and tennis player. Have  passions for photographey and of course my work as a veterinarian.

On and off, over the years, I had been a member at various traditional gyms. Utilizing both machines and free wts performing alot of noncompound as well as few compound exercises.Functional exercises were never part of my routines.Around the age of 53, I started to develop pain in my left hip joint. The pain became so intense that for the next 5-6 years my physical activities were greatly reduced. Three and a half years ago I had a total hip replacement performed on my left hip. The results have been excellent. Having quite alot of exercise equiptment at home, I was able to start workingout again. Again, traditional exercises including mostly noncompound movements. I never seemed to reach the physical level that I desired.

Developing an interest in canine physical therapy, and taking courses in this disipline at the University of Tenessee, I became familiar with functional and sport related training. This was what I wanted for my self.. Reading about human functional and sport training, I became aware of the use of kettlebells as an exercise disipline. Tom Phillips's name came up on a few web sites as an expert in the use of kettlebells. Lucky me, Fit for Life is only 12 minutes from my home. I made an appointment to see Tom and Steve and was extremely impressed with their knowledge of human movement, their personal attention to each client and the various forms of exercise they use to improve strength, flexibility, balance, posture and overall functional abilities. I am now in my 10th month with them. I am at the fittest level I have ever been, at any age. I truly have developed an awareness of the movements that my body goes through.  This past year , I had gone through a very emotional stressful period (divorce). I know that training with both Steve and Tom greatly helped me to keep my sanity.

Both Tom and Steve attend continuing education courses on new training methods and theories. I could not have placed my overall health an better hands.

Exercising and taking dance classes had always been a part of my life, but on December 4, 2002 I was the victim of a drunk driver and was in a car crash causing my vehicle to roll over four times at a speed of over 100 mph. Imagine a runaway train. After a year of pain medication, back and neck braces, a series of doctor’s appointments with mediocre physical therapy, I was left with a minimal ability to move and 15 extra pounds. By the winter of 2003, I was wandering around from gym to gym. Each time signing up and finding myself lost as I walked on the treadmill to no where. It was a mountain I couldn’t climb any longer. I would start every day with pain and end every day in tears.

By May 2004, I had quit my job and was spiraling downward fast. I lost all my self esteem, was out of energy, and was feeling like I just couldn’t take it anymore. I was just about to give up when I found Fit for Life Personal Training Studio. I met my trainer, Steve and the first thing I said to him is “I can’t even do a sit up”. His words to me  were, “Oh yes you can”.  We started slowly over a period of approximately six months with each training session getting increasingly challenging. We did things that I had never done before in a gym like pistols and kettlebell swings. This was his way of developing my cardiovascular strength without me ever stepping foot on a treadmill again. I struggled with my old injuries and definitely challenged my trainer with my mental hurdles but he came up with a way to help me become healthy, while changing my mind to what I can do.  His professional dedication and knowledge are unmatched by any fitness professionals that I had ever worked with. I started to find that every morning was getting easier and easier to get out of bed. Suddenly my entire outlook changed. When I asked him to help me find a healthier way to eat, he took me into his private office and discussed my nutrition. I learned how to make healthy choices, eat on a regular basis, and get a proper amount of sleep. He tailored my training sessions to coordinate with my nutritional requirements and physical appearance goals.

By the winter of 2004 he introduced me to deadlifting. This totally changed my life. I became very physically fit and strong. Who would think that a 40 year old mother of two who was in a near fatal car crash would be able to pull a deadlift. In the fall of 2005 Fit for Life hosted a Tactical Strength Challenge. I had no idea what power lifting was all about, but I asked Steve if I could enter this competition. He said absolutely, and on that day my goals changed from wanting to look “skinny” to wanting to be strong. Little did I know that along with the benefits of this type of training, I would not only become strong, but also change my physical appearance for the better.

The Tactical Strength challenge or TSC consists of three exercises. Dead lift with three attempts for the max pull, pull-ups, and a five minute kettle bell snatch test with a 36 lb kettle bell for the women. The training for the TSC was the hardest thing that I had ever done in my life. Each workout was designed to accomplish my personal best on competition day. My first TSC challenge resulted in me pulling 165 lbs on the dead lift, 4 pull-ups and 50 snatches. I have competed in the TSC four times now over the years and each time I have broken my personal record. The most recent TSC results for me were a 255 lb dead lift and 11 pull-ups. I’m on top of the world, in the best physical condition that I’ve ever been in my life at 43 years old. I smile gratefully whenever someone compliments me on my appearance because what they don’t know is that I could pick up the sofa that they are sitting on. 

Fit for Life and my trainer, Steve take pride in every client. They are fully vested in my success and push me to levels that I thought were unattainable. Steve’s many years of experience and vast knowledge enables him to develop a personalized program for every client. He balances the right amount of kettle bell training, strengthening, condition and diet; tailored to meet the needs of each individual client.

My training sessions with Steve at Fit for Life have allowed me to maintain my physique by working out smarter and more effectively; every minute of that session counts. No time or energy is wasted. The rewards of training at Fit for Life far outweigh the physical appearance. This training has extended to every aspect of my life. I am so grateful to have met Tom and Jodi Phillips and Steve Pucciarelli at Fit for Life.

Carrie Gold
Fit For Life Client

I’m a 49 year old father of two adult boys, my wife and I have lived in Marlboro for almost two decades. I’ve always been committed to physical fitness, as an optometrist I’ve witnessed some of my patient’s health deteriorate year after year, I’ve vowed never to let myself “go.”

That’s why I’ve always surrounded myself with positive, health conscious people. I’m a 4th degree black belt under Bryan Klein’s Tae Kwon Do, in Manalapan NJ.  Any adult will tell you, as we get older it gets progressively more difficult to stay in shape and even more challenging to make physical gains.  I have to eat less and exercise more just to maintain my health!>

I met Thomas Phillips at his Fit for Life Studio in 2004. It took me almost a year to muster up the courage to walk in and meet him. I really did not know what he had to offer nor the cost involved with having a personal trainer.

Once I met Tom, I knew he’d be a positive influence in my life. He was not a salesman; he sincerely wanted to help me achieve my fitness goals. After a year of training I entered an international fitness competition, called Tactical Strength Challenge. The challenge involves pull-ups, dead lifts and a piece of fitness equipment called a kettlebell.

I entered the challenge in 2006, even though I was the oldest participant in the country, Tom encouraged me to participate, I came in dead last! But you’d never know it by witnessing Tom’s reaction; he congratulated me the day of the event and sent me an email the following week, exclaiming how proud he was of me.  He did this in a respectful and sincere manner. I was hooked!

During my most recent competition, my results significantly improved. Despite competing with men and women half my age, my sights are now set on first place! For me it’s not about winning, it’s about finding ways to maintain my health and physical fitness. What I’ve learned from working with Tom for over 4 years is constantly challenging myself with intermediate goals and working hard to achieve them, I rarely missing a session.

Working with Tom has had a ripple effect; my one son participates in triathlons and my younger son in Jersey Shore races. My wife and I also work out together in order to enrich our lives. Although we’re by no means perfect, our focus on our health is unwavering. Our commitment in maintaining a healthy lifestyle is exemplified by our commitment to working with Tom and trainers, I feel fortunate to have met him and train with him.

Dr. Nick Despotides

I am a 29 year old 400m runner training for the 2009 World Championships in Berlin, Germany this August. I am from Metuchen, New Jersey where I attended Metuchen High School and was a five time state champion in the 400m. After graduating from Seton Hall University as an All-American in 2002, I began to prepare for the 2004 Olympic Trials with hopes of making the Olympic team. After qualifying for the trials with a time 45.93 which was the 29th fastest in the U.S. that year, I was left out of the final cut of 27 participants. 

After three years of working, graduate school and training it was time to focus on making the Olympic team in 2008 for a chance to go to Beijing. I spent years meticulously preparing for this opportunity, despite having to work everyday in New York City. With no sponsor, lack of a full time coach, trainer and facilities I was forced to compensate for these things on my own.

Knowing I desperately needed weight training to compete with the best guys in the world I began to look for a trainer. Fast forward to this April when I reached out to Thomas Phillips. I knew it was probably too late being it was April and the trials were in June, but I had to leave no stone unturned. During my lunch break at work I was searching online and came across some interesting articles on kettle bell training. Very intrigued at how it could possibly help my running I began to search for kettle bell trainers in New Jersey. Tom’s name was the first to show up and I spent time reading his website.

Motivated by Tom’s own story and his approach to training, I decided to press my luck and send him an email hoping he had time to even respond to me. So with little hope, no money and a heart full of determination I sent him an email quickly telling him about me and my goals…. 

I read on your site that personal training sessions are tough to come by, but I would love to hear from you regarding the opportunity to train with you. You look like a no nonsense type of guy and I am the same way when it comes to my training. My goal is to make the Olympic team in the 400 meters and I would love if you could help me get there.

It is worth mentioning that not only did Tom get back to me, but he contacted me twice before I even responded to his initial email. Needless to say my life has not been the same since. Unfortunately I did not make it to the trials again, but Tom and I have been preparing for World Championship since July.  It is rare that you meet someone that changes your life in more ways than you can ever explain. Tom has been nothing short of blessing and has been the conduit to my dreams.  He is insightful, trustworthy, caring, committed and definitely NO NONENSE. He has totally revamped my diet, training, body, mind and spirit. I am by far in the best shape of my life and we are not even half way done with our preparation for this year. Tom, his wife Jody and everyone at Fit For Life has made it easy for me to become the best I can be, and I plan on repaying them with lots of dominant performances this upcoming season.

Tyrone Ross

I was Fifty eight and over weight. I felt depressed and it showed in every aspect of my life. Even my business was suffering. I was letting my dreams slip away. As the owner of Chez Baliye, a successful salon in Marlboro. I knew I had to make a big change.

I started a strict nutrition plan but I needed something more. The weight started coming off but I didn’t like the way my body looked. It was as if God heard my prayer and sent what I needed. Right next to my salon in Marlboro moved Fit for Life Personal Training Studio. One day the owner, Jody, came in to introduce herself. We had chemistry immediately. We decided to exchange services. I would take care of her hair and she would take care of my body.

Here we are a year and a half later. I am nearly 60 pounds lighter! The weight training and cardio vascular conditioning has transformed my physique. The pictures don’t lie. I have beautiful sculpted arms and firmer skin. I am stronger and have lots of energy. I feel that I am a better business owner, wife and mother. At 58 I am in the best shape of my life and I owe it to Jody and her commitment to helping me meet my goals.

Sandra Baliya

Before	After
Sandra Baliye

New Student, New Teacher, New Life

“When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.” In April 2007, I was ready, with a twist. I was ready to be a student willing to learn and unlearn, trust, listen, and work hard in a new way. It’s been a great adventure. I’ve developed a new foundation of strength, and a deeper sense of confidence in and out of the studio, including a kick-ass belief in my ability to swing metal with anyone! 

I started Fit for Life simply wanting to learn how to use kettle bells. I have been working out a long time, most of it on my own. I‘ve belonged to many gyms over the years. I’ve gone to cutesy “ladies” gyms with pink “Barbie” dumbbells and frenetic step classes; trendy gyms with plenty of attitude and image; no-frills “steel bars”; even the local YMCA. I’ve worked with trainers. I also have enough exercise DVDs to stock a library! So I was used to working out hard, sometimes for 3 hours at a time. I also fancied that I knew a hell of a lot about exercise.

I was very proud of my fitness ability, because I was born with Cerebral Palsy (a neurological condition which affects motor ability, balance, and flexibility). It affects my left side, and I walk with a limp. I also have limited range of motion in my left arm and leg.  Still, I could lift weights, do cardio, yoga, Pilates, Tae Bo, and worked around the limitations. I was pretty good at it too, in my humble opinion.

Imagine my surprise when Tom Phillips told me in our introductory session that he didn’t think I was ready for kettle bell training. He said something about body imbalances, needing to correct them, how he could work with me, and so on.  My first thoughts were, “What?  How can he tell that?  Hey, just tell me how to work with kettle bells, buddy!” But at the same time, I trusted him. He was direct, confident, and his no-nonsense yet kind manner clicked with me. And so it started… I’d take a 40-minute drive each way every Saturday to do what seemed like repetitive drills and odd movements. Sometimes I’d leave wondering what we were doing. (For the life of me, I couldn’t see why he’d have me standing on one leg and counting to 5 instead of doing something to work up a sweat.) But something kept me going. It wasn’t long before I knew why. Tom was teaching me how to build a new fitness foundation built on integrated strength, knowledge of proper form and function, and focused effort. I was amazed at how my form, core strength, and confidence were growing. My everyday workouts became more effective. I learned how to design creative routines and focus on impeccable form. Slowly, we started kettle bell work. At first it was just a few sets of swings. I couldn’t firmly hold the kettle bell, so I used a towel around the handle. Over time, we added more kettle bell work, always focusing on form and function.

I had a few challenges along the way. The first was my patience. I had a lot of unlearning to do, and initially I did not move forward as fast as I wanted. Sometimes I’d get frustrated because I wanted to master a move quickly, and it didn’t happen. But Tom was patient with me, and I learned to be patient with myself.  In June 2007, my father became terminally ill, and I had to go out of state to care for him. He died in late July, and I was unable to train until late August. In early January 2008, I was in a serious car accident, and was unable to train for a month. But my new fitness foundation was set, and the strength gains sustained me. I was confident that I’d return ready to take on new challenges. And return I did. My training went to a new level. I could swing (without the towel, thank you very much), snatch, and clean. I even bought a set of kettle bells to use at home. All that standing on one leg improved my balance and neurological function. The strength gains were phenomenal. I accomplished more in a year-and-a-half with Tom than in all the prior time of just trying to figure things out as I went along.

Something else happened too... I became a new kind of student in my overall life. Being Fit for Life became more than kettle bells and physical fitness for me. I was already happy in many areas of my life, but I discovered a grand adventure outside my comfort zone. I took more risks, stepped up to a bigger playing field, swung the bat with power, and had a ball doing it. On a lark, I applied for a new job, and I got it. It’s a great fit for this phase of my life. I have a new leadership role the opportunity to coach and mentor; plus the independence, flexibility, and freedom to create something new. I also began life coach training, which has been a dream of mine for years. I plan to encourage women to use a holistic blend of intelligent fitness and nutrition, personal development, and spiritual awareness to create an empowered life. Becoming a new student has led to me becoming a new teacher as well.

So I begin 2009 strong, curious, empowered, and eager to see what’s next. I know I have the tools, knowledge, and ability to succeed, not only with metal, but in life. I am very grateful to have found my teacher for this part of my journey. 

Mavis L. Johnson