The BAR Fitness

All New Plan for the New Year!

2009-12-12T06:54:00.000-08:00

For most of you, you haven't noticed the new found energy that we've recently brought back to the gym and the carry over to the workouts. Trainers are no different than anyone else, except for the fact that our entire job is focused on being on top of the world at all times, which means we have to constantly motivate, motivate, motivate!
Motivation takes it's tole on the mind after a long day at the gym. On average a trainer may have to deal with 30 or more different personalities each day. Some are intrinsically motivated and some need our slap across the face to get going. The intrinsic guys are easy but at the same time as a trainer we need to take them up a level as well. The tough ones are the ones that show up dragging there feet through the door and the last place on Earth they want to be is in the gym.
For years, I've dealt with both kinds of people and at the end of the night I was exhausted at the end of the night. You see, the motivation was being sucked away from me. I would let, those certain people who didn't like fitness, get to me.
After a couple of years of dealing with this issue I was having, I finally had an epiphany! Those folks that needed me to motivate them, I would go above and beyond the call of trainer duty. Instead of just letting people go upstairs and walk on a treadmill prior to training, I would grab them (even when I had another client) and get them to grab a med ball and warm up with abs or something completely different then what they had been doing for ever... you have to break the cycle and at the same time motivate someone and educate someone on the reasons why they need to break the cycle.
Here's my question to you: Do you do the same exact thing every time when you go to the gym? You walk in, throw your stuff in a locker and do what, look to walk on the treadmill at a pace that is slower than what you were doing before you walked through the door? Why? Oh yeah, you are warming up, right? Well, who told you that? Oh yeah, my fault, I was probably lazy one day prior to working you out and said "hey, Joe, hop on a treadmill/bike/elliptical and get loose."

That is what you call a trainer being a lazy instructor and not a trainer. So, ever since I opened up The BAR Fitness in our own building I've tried to get you guys off the treads and grab medicine balls, do a dynamic stretch, ab work or whatever will get the body into sweat mode and ready to rock. Many of you have figured it out.. mainly the Hybrid members because since day one we have warmed up with dynamic stretching. I bet every one of our Hybrid members could run a dynamic stretch themselves without even stuttering about what exercise should come next. It's been instilled into your mind and therefore you could do it without a trainers help... why don't you do it then??????? Well, that's easy too. Hybrid is a team! You do everything with your team and you don't leave anyone out!
My personal training clients: this week, don't use the treads/elliptical/spin bikes to warm up. Grab a med ball and do some ab work or your own dynamic stretches. Do you think you can do it? I know you can.
I'll work with the trainers and get them going again. Look for all new motivators and exercises to keep everyone on track.
This blog was just a shout to what to expect in the new year. You are all up for it and can do it! Get ready for 2010. It will be the biggest year for you as a member and The BAR Fitness as a place to call your second home!
See you in the gym on Monday!

The Great Unknown

2009-10-21T06:19:00.000-07:00

Tonight is the night for the Spencer Shores fundraiser. Hopefully 500 people show up and we don't know where to put everyone. I've received more than 50 silent auction items, probably 20 raffle items and a couple of live auction items. If all goes well, we should be able to raise quite a bit of cash for the family.
South Mountain Cycles came in huge for us. They've donated 4 really nice Specialized bikes. Two mountain and two road bikes, all at cost but still, we could get at least $100 over the cost for the foundation and everyone wins.
Stone Creek Furniture donated a queen sleigh bed.. it's really nice and to buy it new you'd be looking at $700. We are giving away about 5K worth of training. I figure if you have been blessed with the ability to help someone why not go all out and give everything you have. Hopefully the training alone brings in 3K but you never know who is going to be there to bid.
Times are different then they used to be. Two years ago, people would be throwing cash at this stuff without even batting an eye. Now, everyone is watching what they spend. I figure if you put one dinner out on hold for a week and donate to Spencer, you've just put yourself a little closer to the front of the line at the pearly gates.
Not everyone thinks this way but what the heck, that's just me. Anyway, hopefully we sell everything and auction off everything as well. More then anything I just want to see a smile on the Shore's face, especially Spencer. Hey may not understand the cash flow issues right now but someday he'll look back and say, remember when all those people helped my mom and dad? Perhaps he might raise some dough for someone else when he's older..

Random thoughts and now off to start the day... see you all at the party!

Where the Wild Things Are!

2009-10-18T18:27:00.000-07:00

I remember back when I was a little pain in every one's butt.. yeah I know, you're saying not much has changed but whatever, I used to read a book with the title "Where the Wild Things Are." All I can remember is that it was a little spooky but I loved it just the same. Anyway, the movie came out based on the book, I figure it would be amazing so I decided to take my oldest daughter Kate to the show today.
Not sure what the director was trying to accomplish but I thought it was rather weak and tough to follow. Kate, who is 3, loved it until the end when it became redundant and boring. She started to get ency and rambunctious.. she became the "Wild Thing."
Anyway, I don't think I would recommend it to anyone unless you where a die hard fan like I was prior to the movie coming out. Go into it with a open mind and you just might enjoy yourself, otherwise, drink heavily and sleep through it!

What's Your Approach to Fitness?

2009-10-16T12:56:00.000-07:00

I just finished up the newsletter so my brain is pretty well shot but here you go: We all need a little motivation to start back up with a fitness program but seem to lack the know how or where to even start. Even as a trainer, I get into a rut of weighing the options for fitness and then weighting too long to decide so I never actually start anything.

A few years back a good client friend of mine got me started with mountain biking. I purchased a fancy bike or at least I thought it was fancy and started hitting the trails at South Mountain. I soon found myself on the mountain everyday and getting in the best shape of my life. I couldn't get enough of the sport and the fact that I could do it by myself and without anyone criticizing or watching me do it. I deal with people and different personalities all day so anytime I can get out and listen to just my heart rate and the tires hitting the dirt, I'll take it!

Anyway, summer roles around and mountain biking days are few and far between unless you get up at 5am and don't mind running into snakes occasionally. So, I opt out of the early mornings. I've got two little girls that I like to have breakfast with so my priorities tend to shift towards family life instead of my fitness life.
Long story short, I slack off in the summer with riding which means that my fitness becomes an occasional Hybrid class which gets the job done but I prefer to ride and do an occasional class.

Anyway, I've looked up all kinds of mountain biking races in the state and have set a goal to do all of them. I figure if I pay the dough for each event, I have to go and continue to get my butt in shape to complete them. i just finished one in Pinetop and took 10th out of 85.. I was really proud of myself considering the last one I did in April I took 48th out of 100.

My next race is in February and it's a 24 hour team race. I'm putting together teams of 4 that want to do it with me. It will motivate all of us to get in shape and the end result will be a great time near Tucson and lots of memories to go along with it.

So, if you need a motivator and want to try something different, throw leg over a bike and join me. Anyone can do it but you do however need a bike. Go see Erik at South Mountain Cycles on Ray and 36th. Tell him I sent you and he'll help you out.. he's a good dude who always takes care of my bikes.

Later.. I have to go ride now!

Biggest Loser

2009-09-20T19:26:00.000-07:00

My favorite show that has ever hit the market is Biggest Loser. I can't stand the lady trainer. I think she gives trainers a bad name. Bob is great. Positive yet tough with the wussy's that think they are uncapable of doing something.

I run accross a lot of people that have told themselves for pretty much all there lives that they can't do certain things with there body. Truth be told, exercise is tough at the start. Even as a trainer, when we take time off from working out, it's really tough getting back on the saddle.

Anyway, check out the biggest loser sometime. You'll love watching these people change there lives.

We got an ongoing contest at the BAR. Eighty pounds down is the largest amount of weight loss that we've had at the gym. We do however have a fairly new person who is about to break that number and continue on and add insurance runs to the thing. Mark Schembri is already probably 70lbs by now.. it is Sunday for pete's sake. He seems to lose at least 5-8 lbs a week. How does he do it? He is one of the few who listens to what his trainer says and works his butt off when he comes in.. and he never misses a workout.

Anyway, it's refreshing to watch Mark workout. His life is going to change forever and I'm proud to be a part of it. Ryan has done all the work for this guy as far as creating a program for Mark to follow... nice work Ryan.. you don't get enough recongintion for your work but from my standpoint, you're doing a great job...

Everyone have a successful week!

God and me!

2009-09-15T13:17:00.000-07:00

Most of you know that I'm not much a religious person. In fact, the only time I really ever say prayers is during dinner on Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter. Tracie wants me to go to church but I tell her that God doesn't need me to go to a building and hang out with hundreds of strangers for him to know that I believe in him.
I remember when I was twelve, I lost my big sister to a car accident, she was 17. I would imagine I said hundreds of prayers during the month that my sis was holding on to her life. After she passed on, I had my doubts about the man upstairs. I had so many emotions running through my head (so many that I think I ran out of them) that I didn't know what to think. I told myself there was no such thing as God, how could he take someone who had so much going for her?

Well, after sometime passed my brother and sister in law had a baby (Lexus). Come to find out she was conceived right around the same time that my sis had passed. This is where it gets interesting; I used to think that Lexus was filled with my sister's spirit. Of course years later, I realize that Lex got the artistic side of her spirit and her hard headed nature. My daughter Kate was born on the same day that Stacy passed some 19 years later (kate was 2 weeks early).

Anyway, after Lexus was born, I came to terms with God. My sister was a good person in the world and judging by the thousands of people that came to her memorial service I would say that she made an impact on a lot of people. I realized that if she would have come to, her way of life would not be too good. She loved volleyball and loved to dance. She had severe head trauma which means that she would more than likely be in a wheel chair and with no way to communicate. God and me had a chat: He needed a leader and a saint to help upstairs as well as a front blocker on his cloud volleyball team. I figure when it's your time and God needs your assistance, it's time to check out. I'm cool with that now.

Truth be told, my sister has always been by my side. When I used to step to the plate at TCU, I would dig in, clean the landing point, step out and draw a "S" in the dirt next to the box and always say, "alright Stace, what do you have planned for me this time?"
Sometimes she'd help me and sometimes not! You can't be victorious all the time.

Well, this is where the God things comes into hand again. Yesterday my brother called me and the first thing out of his mouth is, "I've got some bad news." If wasn't sitting down already, I would have fallen because my knees buckled. I said those three little words, "Oh My God." I prepared for the worst and Jake said, "mom's been kicked by a horse!" I said those three words again, mainly because I was speechless and couldn't think of anything else at the time. For one second, my world got turned upside down. Jake's next sentence was, "she has three broken ribs and a possible broken arm." Oh thank God!

Now, I'm not sure what you would call what happened but to me, I said a prayer and he came through. It wasn't her time to go. Apparently, there are plenty of horse trainer, jewelry makers and marketing people up there so she gets to hang around for a while longer.

Not sure where I was going with this story. Perhaps I just needed to get it out. I don't talk about my sister much and I haven't showed emotion in more than 20 years. As I write this, I'm sure my eyes are swelled up and I can tell I still have some emotion within. I probably still won't go to church but I'll say prayers more often. Not just for my family but for those that are less fortunate than myself or those who may be going through rough times. Perhaps that is what we all need to do. Give some thanks and be grateful for the people we have around us!

Again, thank you God for keeping my mom on this Earth!

Way Too Many Tech-E Things To Deal With

2009-08-24T20:12:00.000-07:00

As many of you have probably noticed or more than likely have given up on, is the fact that my Blogs have been few and far between these days. Reason being, Twitter and Facebook have taken over my life. Business wise, both Twitter and FB are really helpful when it comes to reaching out to potential members. The Blog stuff was fun when it was all that I had, now with the other two websites, I can communicate with 100 times more people.

So, the Blog thing may go by the wayside but I may keep writing some occasional garbage about how some people make me angry. For instance, a lady who is new to the gym and on a free pass of the next couple of weeks, hammered my wife for not having a particular piece of equipment.. it wasn't even a workout piece of equipment. Anyway, seriously you have been given a gift.. a free gift at that, you don't have to sign up for anything so for the sake of being a good person in the world, please let me run my business the way I see fit and perhaps instead of badgering my wife, why not take it out on the workout.

Those of you who are rock star members, thank you for being you and for supporting the business that I love. I would say that it is all of you and I won't let one bad apple ruin for the rest of us.... thank you for letting me vent.. see you all at the gym... oh yeah.. sign up for twitter and type in www.twitter.com/barhybrid... get on board with the rest of us...

Good Hybrid Workout Today.. very special!

2009-08-07T12:23:00.001-07:00

Today's workout was extra special. I had the opportunity to show other fitness business owners what Hybrid and our business was all about. For some of you we may be just another place to workout but what you may not be aware of is the fact that The BAR is very unique when it comes to other fitness facilities. You see we approach this business not from a "you have to get results or else" type place but more of a welcome and let's make you workout experience mind blowing and let's make it the best part of your day.

Most trainer guys (not all.. don't get butt hurt guys) only focus on the results that people achieve. We focus on the experience! If your experience is awesome then the results will come.. there is no doubt that it works.. Anyway, the hybrid group today was made up of graduate students from A.T. Still Univeristy (health science school) where Tracie is a professor at. Tracie gave a talk that I was fortunate enough to sit in on, Tuesday. She spoke about trainers putting down the clip board and start focusing on what people really want... A Great Experience!

Long story short, after the talk, numerous trainer graduates came up to (all these people are trainers that own there own facility or want to) Tracie and asked more about our philosophy... after all the Q and A, Tracie finally told everyone to come by and see it for yourself. Well, the school is at least 45 min away so only the ones that were in dire straights for a workout showed up. Two guys missed.. they were from FreeMotion which is a equipment manufacturer (too bad guys, I wanted to look into new equipment.. you could have sold me today!).

Only a few showed up but we gave them everything we offer.. not treating them any different than normal joe shmoe walking through the door.. Ryan was nice enough to put all of us through a Hybrid workout.. I almost puked a little again (i might need to see advice).. anyway, they loved it.. question after question and so forth. We gave them all the sales material that we have and I even told one lady that if she was interested in a Co-Op in Florida.. that I'm in! We'll see what happens there (sometimes change is scary for people).

Well, I have to say and of course I'm biased; judging by the response, we really do have a special place for people to get healthy... Thank you guys for coming today and I hope you incorporate some of the ideas that you saw today into your existing business. Just remember, people are good and they need you to help change there lives! You have to love helping people otherwise don't get into training... it's all about the people..

Exercise and Intensity

2009-08-05T10:27:00.000-07:00

For many of you reading this particular blog, you'll probably get a couple sentences into it and stop right away. Why? Because you are not ready for change in your fitness program. What I've been trying to do with all of our clientele and anyone else who will listen, is to try to get all of you to think outside the box of your regular fitness program and put your focus on intensity of the exercises rather than how many sets and how many reps.

What do I mean? Here we go: For years trainers around the world have always relied on writing down a program based on sets and reps. Yes, sometimes the intensity of one particular exercise may be high, mainly based on the type of exercise, but the rest of the exercises in the program for that day are generally low intensity. What I mean is, if you do a hang clean during the exercise bout your heart rate will be through the roof, if done right. Then your trainer puts you on a seated bicep curl. So now, you've just reached your anaerobic threshold and all of a sudden you drop down to almost resting HR. Then after that curl, you go to a row or whatever it may be, your HR will not come close to what you achieved on that hang clean.

What I would like you to try is this: Approach your workouts like they are your last. Every exercise you do, take your HR to it's max and do it for at least 5-15 seconds and in some cases longer. After you reach it and maintain for a little while, stop the exercise and wait until your HR drop to 65% of your max. For instance, I'm 32 so we'll do a simple equation.. 220-age (32) and I'll add 10 beats per minute because the 220-age isn't really a good indicator. My max is right around 188 +10, so 198 beats per minute (BPM). Granted, I work out already so I can probably reach that number but I'd want to puke after a couple of these. I wouldn't have someone who is new to exercise that has the same age as me try to reach the same Max HR... not a good idea and definitely not safe.

What we want to see happen once you reach your max HR and stop that particular exercise is to check HR again and watch it drop. Once you reach 65% of max, crank up the exercise again. Now the first couple weeks of training this way, you may only last 15 minutes and you'll notice that it takes your HR minutes to drop back down to 65%. But, again after a few weeks of HR training, your HR should drop really fast (recovery). This is how you know that you are starting to get in shape. You know what happens when you start to get in shape? Your body fat drops, your strength increases and thus your power output will increase.

What happens if you continue to workout with sets and reps at low intensities? The same thing that's been happening for the last 20 years of your same program.. nothing! YOU stay the same.

Why all this talk about intensity and HR? I want to make a difference in your life.. I always have, that's why I started doing what I do. No, I don't train anymore.. I sit in this office and continually find ways to motivate not only you guys as clients but my trainers as well.

I've been pumping HYBRID likes it's going out of style. Not to take away from our regular personal training groups or one on ones, they are still on the rise and we continue to make changes in those program to make them better. They HYBRID concept though is really exciting because we can incorporate all that I talked about above without anyone in the class even knowing it. We are able to keep HR at high enough levels to get amazing results... what I would like to do eventually is convince all the members of the gym to take a similar approach to there program.

The next time you walk into the gym, especially those of you who are personal training clients, tell your trainer to "bring it on and there is nothing you can throw at me today that I can't do!" This gets everyone excited because it will allow the trainer to think outside the usual box and get your HR way up and consistent... THIS is how you get in shape!

I've got HR monitors in the studio that are open to anyone. I would suggest getting your own though because of sanitary reasons but by all means, use one of ours if you need. Throw it on before your next workout and let's get rockin' You'll love the results in the end.. I promise!

Learning Somethig New

2009-07-21T13:42:00.001-07:00

It's been a while since my last blog entry. Reason being, the summer has taken it out of me and I've also found other computer based stuff to keep me occupied. You've read it in the newsletter already but the twitter thing is really quite cool!

I got into road biking a couple of months ago and have learned a ton about the Tour de France over the past couple of weeks. Anyway, I've been following Lance Armstrong and some of the other guys on the other teams on there respective twitter sites. It's really funny to read the comments back and forth between the teams. Some of the guys get along good and talk strategy for the next stage and then you get to watch it the following day on TV. It's all good stuff.

Well, that's the blog for today. Sign up for Twitter and have a ball.

Another Proud BAR Moment

2009-06-02T12:56:00.000-07:00

If you read the newsletter then you'll notice the article about CJ and Josh doing really well with there baseball career. What I didn't mention is another one of our athletes David Darnell is also excelling at a high level.

David was an outfielder for Mountain Pointe High School and then went on to West Pointe to represent our country, get an education and play a little baseball in the meantime.

I was flipping through the channels while I was watching Utah play Fullerton during the regional and noticed that Army was playing the University of Texas in a similar regional. Now The BAR had three athletes playing in a regional... absolutely a cool moment in my life.

While we are on this subject of kids that have excelled; for some strange reason I heard through the grapevine that a parent told a friend of mine that they hated us because all we want to do is make kids throw up! Seriously lady? What good would that do if that was our focus?

This is how it works. There are two potential issues that cause someone to vomit during exercise. Number one, a new athlete that hasn't worked out in a while or ever for that matter.. exercise is a shock to the body causing all kinds of stuff to be out of wack in the nervous system. Another part of that is that these are athletes we are working with which means that they push themselves very hard even if we ask them to pay attention to what there body is telling them. Hard working people will always be hard working people and wussy's will be wussy's!

The other thing that happens is that these kids each junk prior to coming to workout. When they eat cereal or pop tarts, all that they've done is spike there insulin levels which is basically giving them really high levels of energy, which in turn throws there nervous system off again.. forcing vomit.

For the lady who thinks that vomit is our goal, get with the program and stop babying your kid. If you want a baby sitter take your high school kid to Tutor Time, if you want your kid to play for a regional championship then let us do our job and help us out at home by helping with your kid's nutrition.... FYI, all three of those kids above puked at one point in time... now there school is paid for and they continue to come back for training during the off season. Funny how that works!

All it Takes is One Time!

2009-05-13T14:34:00.001-07:00

Quick and to the point: I've been a catcher all my life. My dream like many of you was to be a professional baseball player and stare out into Wrigley Field from behind the plate. I was always taught that when you step on the field you give nothing less than 110% and for years that is how I approached my game and have continued to preach to the kids I work with.

A long time ago I was watching a game with Mackey Sasser behind the plate and Matt Willimas was the runner at second base. My dad had always told me to fire the ball back to the pitcher harder then they were throwing in to me, so you would never see me throw a bleeder back to the pitcher. I wasn't programed to do so and therefore I don't even think I could throw one back easy. I'd probably hurt myself or launch it over his head. Anyway, Mackey Sasser was catching and has always lobbed the ball back to the pitcher, almost painful to watch. His thinking is probably that he doesn't want to wait his arm on a simple part of the game. Here's the deal though, everyone knew that he did this ever single pitch so when Matty was on second he waited until Sasser was going to lob it back like he'd done every pitch prior, Matty took third base without even a throw from the pitcher once he received the ball.

Yesterday, my favorite catcher in the big's right now (Russel Martin for the Dodgers) was catching against the Phillies. Martin has always been, since being a big leaguer, a leader and a go getter. For some apparent reason though he had a lazy moment and decided to lob the ball back to the pitcher. Jason Werth for the Phillie's was on third and a right handed hitter up at the plate which blocks the catchers view of third base. Here we go, the ball is thrown from the pitcher, strike, Martin lobs it back to the pitcher and Werth takes off. The pitcher grabs the ball and tries to make a throw to the plate but throws high and Werth takes the plate.

So back to my original title of my blog.. "It only takes one time." I would imagine that you won't see anyone steal home again on Russel Martin. He got complacent for a second and paid the price.

Again, kids at home. When you put the uniform on, give it your all and when I yell at you from the dugout, not to get lazy.. remember Mackey Sasser and Russel Martin.. they got lazy and I'll always remember both plays. I would like to remember the catchers that I work with in a positive way rather than saying, "remember the time so and so got lazy and the other team took advantage of them?"

That's my thought of the day. Work hard in life and succeed, get lazy one time and the world will pass you by! Chew on that for a while!

Why We Do the Things We Do!

2009-04-20T16:58:00.000-07:00

If you are reading this, you are probably one of the loyal members who continues to read the newsletter as well as clicking on my blog posts. Last week you may noticed in the newsletter that I wrote a little statement about how The BAR was up 77% from last year's workout numbers for the same month.
I got some mixed revues for posting such a bold statement. Why did I post it? Simple! I want everyone to know that The BAR is rock'n harder than any other business in the area. Not just fitness business (we put those guys to shame), but just business in general.

The BAR isn't going anywhere. We are stronger than ever. Yes, we have had some transition in the last couple of months. We've lost a couple of trainers to fire fighting and one to a career position where he can get better use out of his Master's Degree. Both of which will be back to help periodically and potentially they will continue long term with us.

So, even with transition we are growing. Honestly, I believe we will continue to grow because we are all willing to work hard and strive to give the best customer service that is possible. When other gyms are cutting towel service and cutting hours. We are buying new towels, adding fresher scents and offering new exercise options and incentives to refer friends and family to us.

Yada yada yada. I can chat all day about what we are doing here but the truth of the matter is; Tracie and I love our staff and we love to work with each and every one of our members.

I look forward to coming into the office everyday and finding out what I can do to make someones exercise experience better. For instance, one of our members the other day asked if we can get more matts for the stretch class as well as a AED (just in case). Right then, Kevin got online and ordered five more matts and I am in the process of saving my nickels for an AED... they cost about $1,500, so I need to manange cash flow to be able to purchase one.

I'm willing to do what other gym guys won't. I'll put more into my studio to make sure that your experience is special.. that's how we do business.. we take care of people and those people take care of us.

Ok, I'm done... any feedback is always appreciated... enjoy and have a successful week!

Where Did Respect Go?

2009-04-08T18:20:00.000-07:00

If any of my former coaches ever read this article I bet you they would chuckle and say "wow the kids come a long way." What I'm talking about is the lack of respect that young athletes have towards their peers. I remember in Nevada where I grew up and played ball since I was 4 years old I used to show up to the ball park and do what I thought I was supposed to do.. play ball.
I never thought one bit about hustle or "busting my butt." I used to think that I did all those things.

It wasn't until my senior year at Carson High School when I was being recruited by the University of Nevada Reno. This was a huge opportunity for myself and my family. Everyone from my area wanted to play for Reno but very few ever got the chance. Most players went to junior colleges in California from my area. Anyway, we were playing our first night game ever at our park and the opponent was McQueen High School who was our biggest oponent at the time.

The UNR coaches called my dad and told him that they would be at the game and to sit with them if he liked. I was extremely excited to say the least. This is where it all went wrong. We were down by a run in the bottom of the fourth inning. I was up to the plate with a guy at second. I think I had walked my first two at bats, but looking back it really isn't relevant. Anyway, down by a run and I'm up, swinging from the left side of the plate. The pitcher through me a fastball down the middle and I hit a lazy fly ball to right field. I knew it would be caught and I slowly jogged down to first base.

It was something that I more than likely had done before but this time I had guys watching me. Well, the coaches got up and left right then. My dad looked at them and they said, "we don't want a player that isn't going to hustle for us!"

That was it. My one chance at a scholarship at UNR... GONE!

To say the least, my dad ripped my butt when I got home and my coaches ripped my butt prior to that when I got in the dugout.

I never argued with my coach about it and from that day forward, I hustled for every ball and every play that I could be involved in. (I'll finish the rest tomorrow.. I've got more... tune in tomorrow to read the rest of the story..)

Proud Husband

2009-03-04T10:22:00.000-08:00

You may or may not know, but Tracie ran in a relay race this past weekend that started in Prescott and ended in Mesa. More than 200 miles and 12 team members. This means that Tracie alone ran three legs for a total of 16 miles.

Tracie's team finished in 38 hours (give or take a few minutes). The Ragnar Relay, which is a for profit company that puts on these events around the west had more than 200 teams participate.

When Tracie first said she was going to participate, I was supportive but at the same time I figured she would bow out after a couple of days of training. To my surprise race week was approaching and she was on pace to compete.

Tracie not only participated but she actually ran all of the 16 miles of her legs. I don't know about you readers but 16 miles is an eternity for someone who is a non runner. I've done 5K's with her and almost killed myself trying. I'm a power guy, not an endurance athlete but hey this is not about me.. it's about my wife.

Anyway, we seldom get to tell our better half how proud we are of them but in this instance I am honored and extremely proud of Tracie for sticking to her goal and completing the race. Very few people participated in this event and my wife is one of them.

Even though I don't say it very often; Tracie, I am very proud of you and your accomplishment.... maybe I'll run it with you next year (probably not!)

Taste of Ahwatukee

2009-02-24T06:58:00.000-08:00

For the first time in a long time I signed up to have a booth at a local function called Taste of Ahwatukee. Rarely, do I ever sign up for much but this was a special occasion that was for a good cause.
Anyways, I going to keep this blog short and simple. The event was to raise money to build homes in Mexico. A lot of our baseball kids go down every summer and build five or six homes for some people in need. I think last year they raised $17,000 and hopefully they raised more this year.

Well, when I first started to set up I was really unsure what to expect. I noticed a lot of elderly people walking around and the first thing I thought of was.. not our target market.

To put a long story short, once the event started the place got packed with all kinds of people and we probably spoke with ten different families about what we offer at The BAR. With all the different packages that we offer we can pretty much accommodate every one's budget and needs.

I even came across a really great couple that remembered me from the Foothills Athletic Club back in the day. We chatted for quite some time and I think they will be in next week to give us a go. Great people and perfect for the BAR; they'll be great members.

Anyway, the booth cost me about $150 (went to a good cause) and I made probably ten different leads for training or just help with fitness. All in all it was a good event for the BAR.

I think I'll sign up for more community based events. I realized there are a ton of people in our community that need to know about us and I'd like to know more about them!

The BAR Fitness

2009-02-17T08:39:00.000-08:00

Back in the Game

2009-02-17T07:18:00.001-08:00

You may have noticed, if of course you are a local resident, The BAR has been in the media almost every week for the past couple of months. We won the best of Ahwatukee customer service award, best mom and pop shop, the Joe Mather article relating to his training at our local establishment, our annual shoe drive article, channel 15 news shoe drive piece and pretty soon an article about one of our oldest clients, Lee, who is turning 75 and still to this day comes in three times a week and hits the heavy bag to stay in shape.
Yes, we are back in the game of getting our name out there again. People ask me all the time why we don't advertise? To be quite honest, an add in the paper will run you anywhere from $400-700 for a one time shot quarter page, black and white, plus you have to sign a year contract and never has anyone ever come in because of an add that we placed in either the newspaper or magazines for that matter.

Most of you know us really well and also know that we don't cut deals for any one, so to place a deal in an add would go against what we are trying to provide. We treat everyone the same everyday regardless of if you are a long time client or a new person walking through the door. So, to put something in the paper for $700 and a one time shot, what would be our call to action? We know we are the best at what we do, but how do you place an add and convince people to come in and see it for themselves. Yes, we do the first time workout thing free but that's it (what's really funny is that because of the economy stuff, we've had new people who have actually tried to play the "give me more card" or you don't get my business kind of thing... you know what? We don't want your business.... go wheel and deal with someone who doesn't value what they do. Which ever trainer that makes a deal with you will more than likely be out of business in the next 4 months so your deal will be lost anyway.)

If you don't think the BAR is the best workout place on Earth after your first time coming in, then we probably didn't our jobs real well and we don't deserve your business... don't think we are going to give you another test run at it though.. that's not how it works. I can count probably 8 different times where someone came in and tried us out for 2-4 (no pay) sessions before finally pulling the plug and we never hear from them again. Of course we all look at each other as a staff and say what the heck happened? My guys gave their time and expertise, thank you cards went out, emails occurred daily and nothing? You know what happened? The person was looking for free anything and decided to try us! Not going to happen again though. One time shot and then we go back to what we always preach: "We treat everyone the same everyday," and if we haven't earned your business after the first day then we probably don't deserve your business anyway.

That's it... we don't advertise in the papers (very often) and we don't do deals (ever)! People that come into the BAR are treated with respect and we are always very appreciated when we get a referral from them. You know what? They treat us the exact same way. It's back to referring to the BAR as a family place, but I'll save that one for another blog!

It's A Great Day!

2009-01-23T14:26:00.000-08:00

For the last five years Tracie and myself have prided ourselves on being a part of the community and doing whatever we can to contribute. Today we were honored with four different Ahwatukee voted on achievements for 2008.

Yes, we would have liked to be voted number 1 for best place to workout but seriously, exercise is exercise. What makes your exercise special and demanding is the experience that you go through during your exercise. I like to call that customer service and yes, we were voted #1 best customer service in all of the Ahwautkee based businesses. To think that a little mom and pop gym (yes, we won that one as well) would have the best customer service in town. So now I'm thinking either we are really good at treating people right or Ahwatukee businesses need to step it up a little on their services. Of course just a thought though.

We also took second in best personal trainer (Kevin). You know the sad part about it? Kevin not only gives great workouts but he gives every ounce of who he is to the members of the gym. Not just the ones that he works with directly but everyone that is a member or potential member for that reason. He may have been voted number two but I would put my entire reputation on it that Kevin is one of the best trainers in the country. It's not that he is the most educated in fitness but that he completely understands what it means to be a personal trainer. The workout part is only a small portion of what he does, it's the entire experience that he provides that keeps everyone coming back for more. We have a saying that we use a lot in our meetings: "Give people what they want, but incorporate what they need." I would say Kevin understands this completely. "Dry.. you've got my vote and thank you for being the person that you are."

That's it. My two cents are in. I'm proud to have won all these achievements and am humble at the same time. Tracie and I have come a long way since to moving to Arizona in 2000. Here's a quick story; when we moved here from Texas, I was working in Peoria, trying to run a guys gym who lived in Austria, we would chat via the internet. I made no money and drove 45 minutes each way to get there. Tracie was finishing up school at ASU and we lived in a dump in Tempe. We were so broke that I would do yard work for my dad to make $400 a month.... middle of the summer may I add just to cover the bills. Yadayadayada, I can't believe that I have six employees now and a gym that everyone of the town supports. I am grateful to all of you who do business with us. You could go anywhere but you chose us and for that all I can say is thank you.

Sicko

2008-12-17T10:59:00.000-08:00

There is nothing worse than having the stomach bug. Just when you think you are doing everything possible to stay healthy and you tell yourself that this year the flu isn't going to get you; the flu slaps you accross the face and gives you a wake up call.
No matter how much muscle you have or how many vitamins you are taking, the darn flu is going to catch you.

I came home Monday night to my wife and both little girls throwing up everywhere. It was a scene straight out of the "Exercist" with projectile vomitting covering the house. As Tracie and I cleaned up the girls and the surrounding areas I realized that I was in for it.

Naturally, I took a ton of vitamins and fluids to try to combat the crud but I figured it would hit at some point. Last year the flu took 6 days off my life, this year just one full day. What was really tough was watching Kate and Taylor get hit with full force and there is nothing you can do for them except to comfort and get ready to clean up the nasty stuff.

Well, enough with the vomit talk. I think we are all in the clear from the flu bug, or at least I hope so. We are heading to Texas for Christmas and the drive will really be awesome if everyone starts puking again. Let's hope not.

Anyway, happy holiday's to everyone and get ready for an awesome new year. 2009 is going to fantastic for all of you who are willing to work hard and go get what you want in life. I truly believe 09 will be my best year yet and I hope it is for you as well.

Best,

Brad

I Created A Business Full of Friends

2008-12-07T19:57:00.000-08:00

As many of you are aware, we held our annual holiday party last Friday night at The BAR. My biggest worry was that no one would come and all the hard work that went into putting the party together would have went un-seen.

Little did I know that more than 200 of my closest members, friends and family would show up. The party started at seven and by 7:30 the place was packed with people having fun and enjoying the unbelievable food that Heidi of Hedi's Events and Catering provided.

Just a little side note: If ever you need to throw a unforgettable party, hire Heidi. She won't steer you wrong and it's worth every penny. Thank you Heidi... you're the best!

I couldn't believe the support we've received this year. As I went around the party shaking hands, an occasional hug and giving "good game" pats on the butt to some special members who deserve it, all I could focus on is the fact that every single person at the party was there for The BAR and that they could be anywhere else in the world but they made time to support us. I'm extremely humble and grateful for that.. I personally thank all of you for coming you made the night one to remember.

One of my favorite comments of the night came from a father of one of our athletes. He and a few other dads were in the back room enjoying a little classical guitar and laid back atmosphere when he grabbed me and said, "Ahwatukee needs a room just like this one for us guys to hang out in. Somewhere to unwind and relax." I told him that his son would have his head if we took away his room and made it into lounge. Tell you what though, the next place we build, I'll plan on having a lounge for the dads and moms for that matter.

Not sure if anyone noticed but we had to do make two separate alcohol runs during a matter of 2 hours. Thank you to Kevin's wife Sarah and his dad Shane for handling that for us. By the way, we gave Kevin an award for being the top dog in the gym for 2008. He deserves more than anyone. He busts his butt day in and day out making sure that The BAR continues to strive for greatness. I couldn't ask for a better trainer, manager and friend. Thank you Dry for taking The BAR to the next level and always having my back.

Hey, did anyone notice that there was only three pieces of equipment in the gym Friday night? Kevin, Jake, myself and two of our favorite members, Doug and RJ moved everything out in the morning. The Mountain Pointe baseball team came by at 3pm and decorated (nice work) and back again at 10pm to put all the equipment back in. Thanks MP baseball, you guys were work horses for us and I appreciate your hard work.

Also, thank you to Erik Kelly for allowing us his moving truck to store some of the equipment. I was a little worried that it wouldn't hold it all but if was definitely a must have in order to get the job done. Thanks Erik, I owe you one.

How about the Member of the Year Award? Many people were in the running for this first time award but we felt that Cynthia Hammersley was the most deserving. She has been the most consistent member as well as the one member to keep me on my toes with suggestions to make The BAR better and she's absolutely the best ambassador a business could ever ask for. Thank you Cynthia and much continued success to you.

Yes, my blog is random this week. My mind is on overdrive and out of control. I've got so many ideas in the fire and I can't wait to implement them. Those of you who are on board had better get ready because The BAR is about to explode with excitement and kick butt workouts.

That's it. I've got more to say but my hands are starting to cramp. Oh yeah, thank you to Rod Ticknor of Native New Yorker for getting the MP baseball team in to his restaurant on such short notice. By the way, the boys loved it. Thanks Rod.

I'm done. I hope to see all of you this Friday night at The BAR for Casino Night. If you want to come let me know soon so I can put you on the list...

Thank you all once again for all your support this year. I feel very blessed to have all of you in my life.

A Little Appreciation Can Go A Long Way

2008-11-16T20:31:00.000-08:00

The economy thing has many people mind boggled and has given some a false sense of world turmoil. For me however, I see an abundance of opportunity.

Today I was running some errands with my dad when I mentioned the holiday party that I throw every year, and this year is no different. When I told him what I had planned he looked extremely surprised and almost disappointed. Not disappointed in the fact that the party is going to be ridiculous but the fact that I am going to spare no expense and utilize quite a bit of man power to transform the studio from a gym into a winter wonderland.

His response was typical of a media prone individual who is consumed with the negativity of this economy; he said why would you do a thing like that when cash is tight for everyone in the world? My response was simple. I said because my members need to know that I'm planning on being around for a long time in this business and I can only do that with their support.

I also know that my competitors won't do for their members what I'm doing for mine and perhaps the word will get out that The BAR truly is the best place to get in shape. Maybe I'll get lucky and get the interest of a few people that want to cross over to the dark side with us.

The bottom line is this: The only way business owners are going to stay in business is to go the extra mile for what they believe in. Those who aren't willing to work will fail and those of us who put in countless hours and do whatever it takes to keep people happy will prosper. I see nothing but opportunity right now and I plan on capturing it.

This holiday party on December 5th is going to be the talk of Ahwatukee when I'm done with it and I can't wait to see every one's face when they walk through the door that night. You don't want to miss it!

For those of you who are going through tough times right now, my advice is this: Get off your butt and get something done about it. If you want to succeed in life, go get what you want and don't wait for someone to hand it to you because right now handouts are few and far between.
Keep on truckin' and create a new path of success.. I'll be there paving a way myself.

Who Knows What to Think!

2008-11-10T15:51:00.000-08:00

So the title of my blog is "What is he thinking." Do you really want to know and can you handle what's about to hit you? Here you go: Well, for once I think I've hit the jackpot when it comes to fitness. For the last three years Tracie and I have gone to a fitness business seminar and brought a couple of trainers with us each time. This past week we went to a customer service seminar that has to do with fitness. I like to think that we already have a special place with great customer service but as I found out, we still have a lot to learn.

I've put together a team of people that are part of my board of advisers. Basically, these people are either members, past members or just people that I have developed a relationship with and will give me honest answers to ideas that I want to implement into our existing programs.

Thomas Plummer was the seminar I went to and his ideas are what would be considered to be ahead of the curve in the fitness business. The basic premise behind his ideas is simple: People want to have more fun and are tired of the same old body builder type workouts!

You know what's funny? He's right. For years since we've been in business, members have expressed the fact that they want to either look like an athlete or workout like an athlete. Let me ask you, do you want to look like Schwarzenegger or Brad Pitt. When I was in high school, I wanted to look like Arnold but I think Brad Pitt would be more fitting for both me and my wife. Besides, when Arnold is a big saggy mess of muscle, Pitt will still look like a million bucks.

You know how Pitt does it? He works out like an athlete. What does that mean? How about lots of kettle bells, up downs, rotations, throwing weight balls around the gym and all kinds of other unorthodox exercise techniques. One particular website that I like to get ideas from is www.artofstrength.com. The guy who runs this site is the Tennessee Titans strength coach. He completely changed the way the team trains and the coach of the Titans attributes their success to the fact that they are the most in shape group of guys in the league.

I've watched some of the video's this guy put together and I have really been inspired to incorporate his techniques into our existing programs. What does this mean for you? How about more fun and a stronger body? To me, this all makes sense. Know one in this gym wants to look like a bodybuilder nor should they train like one. We'll still do curls and bench press but it might be with our own body weight and with a twisted trunk during the press. How confused are you now?

Don't worry, your workouts are still going to rock and you'll love it even more when you walk through the door. I want this place to be number one, not only in Arizona (which we are) but all over the country. Innovation is key to continued growth of a company and we are going to break out the innovation hammer and start building. Get ready for a crazy time and for the best workouts you've ever had...

Gnome Sweet Gnome!

2008-10-31T15:18:00.000-07:00

Just when I think I've stumped everyone with this hide and go seek game of gnome hunting, someone finds him. I've got to admit, I really enjoy this game and I think everyone who is participating is having a great time too.

I went out again today to the mountain and racked my brain on how to make this next hunt 10 times more interesting and fun. I think I've figured it out. If I play my cards right, this next one should take at least a month to find but who knows, with my evil nemesis RJ on the prowl all the time, he'll probably find it by the end of the week. I'll do my best though.

I was thinking about how much fun it must be to go out looking for something that is pretty well lost and use your brain to find it. What a self-rewarding feeling you must get when you find it. All I know is that is is very self-rewarding for me to hide it. How about a role reversal sometime? Any takers???

Well, off to the desert, enjoy the Halloween weekend and keep having fun getting fit. It gets easier with every step you take.

Good Times in Texas!

2008-10-27T13:06:00.001-07:00

I just got back from a wonderful trip to Texas where I went to visit my family and to see Willie Nelson at a famous "honkytonk" in Fort Worth, called Billy Bob's. It was must see for anyone who enjoys country music. I went with my brother, step brother and nephew (Luke, he is more of a hard rock kid, 14). I outfitted my nephew in Willie gear, red head band and all.
The best part of the concert, other than Willie being a favorite of mine is Luke, my one time long haired, dyed black nephew fit in just like one of the guys. He wore cowboys boots and everything. I haven't seen him in over two years and what a change. He's no longer a youngster that gets left behind. He even said that he really like the concert; Willie can still jam for a country guy... Luke's words.

Anyway, my trip was awesome. I rode some horses, tore up some ground on a four wheeler and bonded with the family. Texas is a special place for me and I look forward to being there every year.

Now it is off to get the business mind going again. Tough at times but it's part of the job... i love it!

At What Age Are Considered an Old Man?

2008-10-20T12:04:00.000-07:00

I was sitting at my desk this morning talking with Kevin about what to write about for my weekly blog and all I can really think about is how bad my body is aching. You see, Kevin and I played baseball this weekend in a huge men's league tournament consisting of something like 50 teams from around the United States. Of course, we had to play in the most competitive division being the competitors that we are.

I've been working out with Jacob for the past month and I thought I was in pretty good shape for the tournament but playing in 5 consecutive games and catching 4 of them, my body says otherwise.

I've got pains on top of pains. You all know exactly what I'm talking about, you know, after your first workout in a while, those leg pains that you tend to get you from doing so many lunges and squats? That's what my entire body feels like.

I remember playing baseball in college (not all that long ago), catching more than 60 games plus another 50 or so in summer ball and not even thinking about my body aching. Here is the difference; I'm no longer 20 years old and I don't workout as much or as intense as I used too. I suppose that if I pumped iron and ran like I did when I was playing all the time, my body would be fine. So from today on, I'm going to get ready for next year's tournament. Does this mean that I need to workout everyday and completely crush my body each workout? Not at all. This means that I just need to get a little more active and possibly take a few swings here and there. Remember, it's only a few games, not 100 like it used to be.

That's my goal for next year. I just want to be ready for one more time of strapping up the gear and re-living the glory days and of course being able to function when it's all over.

Moral of the story is this; stay consistent with your exercise routine. It doesn't mean that you need a trainer every time, just that you need to be active daily and do the things that keep you healthy, otherwise, when you decide to crank it up again in the gym you'll continue to go through the aches and pains all over again. Stay consistent and your aches and pains will more than likely go by the way side.

As for me, I'm off to hide the Gnome again... also known as my exercise for the day!

Good Times with the Gnome

2008-10-13T13:48:00.000-07:00

With the economy being up, down, left and right over the past few months and especially this past week, I've been thinking of how I can put a few smiles on the faces of people in Ahwatukee as well as maybe motivate a few participants to go venture out and about and get a little workout in.

I was out last Wednesday afternoon doing what I like to do to take my mind out of the business side of the fitness world and I thought of an idea! While riding my bike through the beautiful trails of South Mountain I ran across 8 hikers/walkers 5 mountain bikers and 2 crazy runners. I thought to myself what do all these people have in common? They all exercise using the outdoors or also known as Nature's Gym.

When was the last time you went outside to exercise or perhaps a better question would be, have you ever been to South Mountain located in our own Ahwatukee backyard? Yadayadayada, ok here it is; I own a gym yes but my objective is not to force people to only workout in a gym environment but rather I want people to think outside the box and get there bunz outside for a change, so I came up with this contest involving a hunt for a Gnome. You've seen the photo in the newsletter right? He's a good sized, red hat, red shoe wearing little man taking a nap waiting for someone to come and find him.

So what's the contest? How about for the first week, if you find him I'll give you and one of your buddies 8 personal training sessions each. That's right, I'm willing to give up 16 personal training sessions to get you all to go outside and exercise. What happens during the second week if no one finds him? I'll add more value to the package. Not sure what will be added to it but I'm sure it will only make you want to find him even more.

So, read the clues on the newsletter and head on out to the mountain. If you can't find him the first week, check the newsletter every Monday and Thursday for more clues and more incentive. Well, I hope everyone enjoys the hunt and I'll look forward to watching it unfold...

FYI: Bring a backpack to put the gnome in (he's good sized)!

The Simple Things!

2008-10-06T12:14:00.000-07:00

It's funny how sometimes the simple things in life can make everything so much better. At times we become complaisant with day to day life and used to how our typical days unfold. For the last four and a half years I've been blessed with the ability to create a comfortable exercise environment that people really seem to enjoy. I try to do my best with the details of the studio, things like mirrors that lite up for makeup application, using cleaning products that are non toxic, bringing in stainless water bottles so to do away with all the plastic bottles we tend to go through and having mints at the front for after you workout is over.
All of these details I take a great deal of pride in and I'm always trying to find new detail items that will enhance the experience at The BAR.
Here is the funny part, with all the details and additions that we constantly work on, the best detail we've done in the past six months was to just change out the old sweat towels and add some plush new ones.
Apparently, the old towels were getting so rough that someone mentioned that they were bummed to see the exfoliating towels go away.
I guess with all the detail items that I worry about I forgot to look at the basic ones. I can promise you that we will change the towels a little more regularly now that I see the difference it has made with the experience that our clients have at the BAR.
All to often we tend to look past the simple things in day to day life. Yesterday, at home I took a moment to do something simple; push my two little girls on their swing set that "Grandma Texas" got for them. It took little effort from me but I got so much joy watching my girls go back and forth with huge smiles on their faces. Simple, yet effective and rewarding!
Here is my challenge for you, find something today that's simple, effective and self rewarding. I'd bet it's closer than you think and will undoubtable put a smile on your face as well as the people around you!

PAIN !

2008-09-29T11:42:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have one of those days where everything hurts. You know what I mean, your feet, your back or with the wonderful economy that we like to blame everything on, probably your head aches a little more often than it did last year.
Let me tell you my story. I'm 31, own a business that supports not only my family but it also supports three trainers and gives a partial living for two other employees. Plus I still think I can play a little baseball on the weekends even though my shoulder, back and now an elbow pain that I've never had before, have started to make me think twice.
We've all got aches and pains in some regard. I happen to work a lot harder when my aches and pains kick in. If business is slow, I re-evaluate the business and find a way to add more value to what we are already offering. I know for a fact that what we offer is completely different than what our competitors can offer, but sometimes even with great service we need to find ways to improve on that service.
Sometimes, when you think too far outside the box, your box will eventually collapse because of lack of support. I like to look back and ask myself what created my original box (business). I can truthfully tell you that my box was created with passion to help people achieve health. Sounds like a cookie cutter response but in all honesty it's the truth. I love helping people achieve!
Although it can be tough to help like I used to because I hide in this office for most of the day (it's not all it's cut out to be). Now I get a chance to teach trainers how to become great trainers not just instructors who can count reps and point to the next exercise.
I really like the team that I've created. I've had numerous trainers over the years but this group is special. These guys have a gift that is only scratched at the service. They have yet to see their full potential as a personal trainer.
Well, it's off to teach and help with other's aches and pains. By doing so, my aches and pains will more than likely go away!

BAR Launches New Website

2008-06-02T16:39:00.001-07:00

Today we launched our new website. Not that our old website was bad, I just couldn't figure out how to utilize it without calling someone to add details for me. I'm kind of a do it myself type person so I asked Kevin, our head trainer, to help in creating something that was more user friendly. I absolutely love the new look and easy accessible information. One of my long time clients created the avenue for our original site which I am greatful for. She did great work but I didn't have a clue on how to work it. With our new site we can add new text anytime we need as well as all of our PSX Athletes will have a page that can be visited by college coaches for recruitment (coming soon).
I hope everyone enjoys the site and please feel free to give feedback on how we can make it better...
Still the same name: www.thebarfitness.com

BAR Athlete Makes It "BIG"

2008-05-31T14:58:00.000-07:00

In one's lifetime, we rarely have those times that happiness brings a tear to your eye and goose-bumps throughout your body. Yesterday, I had one of those moments. For the last 9 years since finishing up college I have dedicated my career to helping people achieve some sort of fitness goal or assisting them with their respective athleticism. Yesterday, Friday May 30 I witnessed the greatest moment in my professional career. When I first starting training in Phoenix, fresh out of college I came across an opportunity to work with the Chicago Cubs Scout team, which was made up of the best high school baseball talent in the area. I can remember the first day at Fitch Park watching this tall, 6'6" 175 lb soaking wet short stop take a 85 mpg fastball over the let field fence and across Arizona Avenue hitting the house on the other side. To my estimation I would say the ball first hit the ground somewhere around 450ft away.. did I mention he was swinging a wood bat? I remember thinking, this kid is going to be a monster if someone can get a hold of him and pack on some weight. Funny how things happen; some years later I ended up coaching at his old high school where I developed a great relationship with his father and himself when he was around after his professional season.
Naturally, with the opening up of The BAR, I met with Joe and asked him to go through a pre-season regimen with me to get ready for Spring Training. Let me be the first to say the Joe is the hardest most dedicated athlete I have had the opportunity to work with. He doesn't drink, use tobacco or put junk into his body. Our first year of working out he put on 20lbs of muscle; he doesn't have any body fat at all so it all had to be pure good stuff. Needless to say he dominated at Double A that season and was called up to Triple A for the following.
Yesterday, I got the chance to watch one of my athletes that I've had the special chance to work with finally get his shot in the "Show." Joe made a diving catch that made the highlight real on ESPN and the positive comments that the commentators where making about Joe where nothing but the truth.
What Joe may not realize is that he is representing all of us that as a children wanted to become nothing more than a big leaguer. After his catch they did a close up on his face; a simple smile occurred, a slight glance to the stands and what looked to be "man" coming from his lips. His dream came true yesterday as well as mine and others that have had the chance to work with him.
In my business, I tend to live through the results of other people. More specifically, my athletes. There is nothing like helping a kid earn a scholarship or have a chance at pro ball. Yesterday, so far is the single greatest achievement in my professional career and I owe it all to a 6'6" skinny kid who gave me the chance help him achieve greatness and yes, I would say yesterday in St. Louis with the number 62 on his back he was just that, "great."

Fundraising for the Matt Leinart Foundation

2008-05-21T13:29:00.000-07:00

The BAR Fitness is helping a local business, Dolce Luna raise funds for the Matt Leinart Foundation. All proceeds for this event will go to the Banner Children's Hospital. Come and be a part of the silent and live auction. There will be sessions given away from The BAR as well as many autographed footballs and jerseys by Matt among other items up for auction. Do your best to get to the event at Dulce Luna on 48th and Chandler.. starts at 5:30pm.. Hope to see you all there!

June 2nd Launches Kenyan Marathon Program

2008-05-20T17:10:00.000-07:00

With the help of Harrison Korroso, a world class Kenyan marathon runner and former Olympian, The BAR has been able to develop for the first time a marathon program specific to the teachings of the Kenyan way's. This program will incorporate both the running side of things as well as a professional weight training regimen. Look out Boston.. here we come!

Softball Athlete's are on the Rise!

2008-05-20T16:56:00.000-07:00

Softball in the East Valley is up and coming. The BAR School of Athletic Performance has accepted the contract for the Horizon Ahwatukee softball team as well as two exceptional players from Corona High School; Ashley Hanson, who is the Player of the Year in Arizona and will be attending Stanford on a scholarship as well as Jamie Pollak, an outstanding junior pitcher/first baseman who was awarded All-City honors this year.
Very exciting for The BAR to be able to work with such great female athletes and we can't wait to see what the future brings for all of them.

Best of Phoenix

2008-05-19T09:47:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it? Our little performance studio was voted #1 gym in Phoenix. We beat out everyone, including LifeTime and all the YMCA's valley wide. Amazing what a little customer service and a clean environment will do for you... Thank you all!