WFOB Lady of the Month

We are ever grateful for the adoring, fit, and healthy community that makes up WFOB. We want to share your successes with other members and have come up with the WFOB Lady of the Month. We will feature members – young, mature, new, and many years-in. You all have grand stories to share!

Tell us your tale. We want to know it! Email memberservices@womensfitnessofboston.com.

August is for Desiree! WFOB Celebrates Desiree as our Lady of August 2019!

Name:  Desiree Bradford

What do you do for work?  After going to school near Boston, I now work in Higher Education in student affairs at Emerson College.What made you join WFOB? And how long have you been a member? I joined WFOB after a friend had me try it out through Groupon a little over a year ago. We really started to love the classes and I’ve been coming ever since!

What are your fitness goals?  My fitness goal is to just be healthy and happy. Growing up I was on the track team and cheerleading team. I love being active. As an adult I’ve done a couple Spartan races and 5Ks! I try not to put too much pressure on myself on specific achievements like losing specific weight, it makes the process less fun for me. Finishing a race, or making it to a class are great goals to stay accountable.

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong? Why?

I love a lot of the moves in STRONG. When I am doing a punch or kick it really gets so much of my negative energy out, it can be almost therapeutic. Pretty much going through all of Strong by Zumba has made me feel like a badass because it’s such a challenge!

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB? Something about going to an all Women’s gym just makes me feel immediately more comfortable and confident. A lot of gyms in the Boston area are intimidating but every time I got to WFOB I feel so welcomed and supported. I mostly do classes with Dawn and she really takes notice of people’s skill levels and pushes you past your comfort zone! A little accountability never hurt nobody (that’s how the song goes right?)!

July is for Jennifer! WFOB Celebrates Jennifer as our Lady of July 2019!

Name:  Jen

What do you do for work? I’m the Vice President of Research for a renewable energy start-up in Boston called REsurety.

What made you join WFOB? And how long have you been a member? I joined WFOB about a year and a half ago when I started working in downtown Boston. I wanted to find a gym that was close to my office so that I could fit in workouts during my lunch hour or after work. The class schedule at WFOB really appealed to me, because it had a lot of variety and the times were really convenient.

What are your fitness goals? I want to maintain a healthy lifestyle and take care of myself so that I can remain active and avoid health problems as I get older. I also find that exercise is a great form of stress relief, so it’s important for me to fit in some form of exercise every week.

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong? Why? I have a love-hate relationship with burpees. I’m never all that excited when a class instructor says we’re doing burpees (or burpees plus a push-up and jack if the instructor is really feeling mean 😉 ), but they work so many different parts of your body and I always feel strong and accomplished after doing a set of burpees.

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB? It’s a great community – everyone is really friendly and supportive and the classes are awesome!

Gia in June! WFOB celebrates Gia as our Lady of June 2019!

Name: Gia Lucia Ronan

What do you do for work? I am a legal assistant at Sandulli Grace, PC.

What made you join WFOB? 

I joined WFOB after I had my daughter 3 years ago. Working full time made it hard for me to find time to work out. I wanted to spend my time at home with my family. I decided to try working out on my lunch hour and WFOB was right across the street and offered classes everyday!

What are your fitness goals? My only real fitness goal is to keep going! I was in a bad accident when I was a child that causes me a lot of problems as an adult. When I am consistently working out, it helps manage the pain. Not to mention that I mentally feel 1,000x better after a solid week of working out!

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong? Why? Squats! They’re a simple, yet full body move. So, I feel tight and toned everywhere while doing them!! & I’ll be honest, I love looking at my glutes in the mirror when I hit the top!

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB? It is by far the best value in town. I have tried a dozen gyms in the area and nothing really compares. I take the classes at WFOB and they work you hard enough to see results but never too much. They mean business, but it’s never boring! I truly look forward to my hour at WFOB everyday!

May is for Jennifer! WFOB celebrates Jennifer as our Lady of May 2019!!

Happy Holly to you! WFOB celebrates Holly as our Lady of April 2019! 

Another great story from our adoring, fit, and healthy community that makes up WFOB is here! Read on to meet one of WFOB’s most consistent gym-goers.

What do you do for work?
I lead the direct marketing practice at an asset management firm in Boston.

What made you join WFOB? And how long have you been a member?
I have 3 boys, I work full time, I commute 3 hours a day, and thus it’s difficult for me to work out at home or mornings / evenings.  I wanted to be able to work out during lunch at a women-only gym and not see any of my co-workers. I have been a member for a few years and it’s been one of the best decisions I ever made!

What are your fitness goals?
Exercising helps me be my best every day.  A couple of years ago I decided to lose the “baby weight” (realizing my youngest “baby” was now doing algebra), and I lost 25 pounds.  My goals are to maintain my weight, relieve anxiety, improve my muscle tone, keep my heart healthy, and slow down the aging process.

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong? Why?
Front kicks.  I like challenging myself to see how hard and high I can kick.  It’s a very “don’t mess with me” move.

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB?
The entire experience is custom designed for working women.  The classes are developed to address women’s fitness goals and challenges.  And it’s a community.  It’s nice to see the same people each day!

Meet Marvelous Maggie this March, WFOB’s  Lady of the Month

What made you join WFOB? 

Several years ago I had about four months to get ready for a planned surgery and I wanted to work with a personal trainer to get fit before the surgery and then help me bounce back afterward. I also wanted to join a women’s gym because I could cut down on the number of colleagues I might run into at the gym- I like to forget the office as much as possible when I work out.

What are your fitness goals? 

Building/maintaining stamina and strength, to help me look and feel my best.

How has your life changed since becoming a member? 

I used to be very inconsistent with working out, but since I joined WFOB I work out at least four times a week.  And sometimes I can even open a jar of marinara sauce with my bare hands!

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong?

Bird-dog, because I have a hard time with balance, and holding that feels like an accomplishment.

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB?

The classes are great, and it’s a nice laid back gym with lots of friendly people.

Show Some Love This February as WFOB Celebrates Christine as the Lady of the Month!

Another great story from our adoring, fit, and healthy community that makes up WFOB is here! Read on to meet one of WFOB’s most consistent gym-goers.

What do you do for work? 

I work for a local non-profit organization which serves veterans who are experiencing homelessness. I am a licensed mental health counselor and I am the director of my agencies behavioral health programs. We serve our veteran residents by helping them gain access to affordable housing, access treatment needs in the community, and make connections to employment or other financial benefits to increase their independence in the community. It is not an easy job, but I love the veteran community we serve. I am going into my 5th year with the agency.

What made you join WFOB? 

I have had a very difficult past couple of years which has forced me to be more engaged and aware of my well being. I lost my sister to metastatic breast cancer almost two years ago now, and more recently I have been seeing my mother decline in her functioning due to Alzheimer’s disease. Health is a main priority of mine given these circumstances with my loved ones. While some health conditions we have no control over, I feel that exercise certainly helps reduce certain risk, as well as is a great outlet to manage stress, and is personally motivating and empowering…I know I am doing something good for my body and my mind when I am at the gym. I sleep better and I feel more energized during my work days, overall I just feel better on a daily basis.

What are your fitness goals? 

My fitness goals I think are not that uncommon to others; I want to improve my overall physique-I am sick of saying I want to lose weight…rather I would like to gain healthy muscle tone and lessen some of my softer spots.  I have noticed positive changes in my range of motion-it’s a great feeling to high kick! I have run in three 5k’s recently, one this past summer, and two in fall which has been very motivating for myself to complete…next big goal-I am hoping to run a 1/2 marathon in May.

How has your life changed since becoming a member? 

I feel extremely encouraged and welcomed by the other members and friends that I have made at the gym. I feel the women and instructors help greatly with accountability in showing up for the group classes-I need this push sometimes!!!  Overall, I feel I have had the most success attending on a regular basis at WFOB, than in previous gym memberships and I would attribute this largely to the community here.

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong?

Strong by Zumba-anything quadrant 3/Push your limits….because it always changes, it’s always a challenge….

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB?

After a long day at work, it’s often times the happy place in my day so I keep coming back!

Happy Min Days! Meet Min WFOB’s Lady of December!

What do you do for work?

I am a Finance Manager at the Investment Office of Boston Children’s Hospital.

What made you join WFOB?

And how long have you been a member? I wanted to be healthier and stronger. WFOB offers a variety of fun programs for women, with amazing coaches. It is close to my office. The gym price is reasonable too. I have been a member for 4 months. I am so happy I made the decision to join WFOB!

What are your fitness goals?

Stay healthy and strong.

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong? Why?

When I do Prison Lifts in the Power Flex class, my body is constrained, but I feel strong: my legs are well rooted, and I feel my biceps grows with every lift. I love it!

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB?

This is the best gym for women in Boston, with an amazing owner and teachers. I highly recommend it!

Happy November! Meet Arlande, WFOB’s Energetic Lady of the Month

Another great story from our adoring, fit, and healthy community that makes up WFOB is here! Read on to meet one of WFOB’s most consistent gym-goers.

What do you do for work?
I’m an administrative analyst for the City of Boston.

What made you join WFOB?
A coworker invited me to come with her and I’ve been hooked since then.

What are your fitness goals?
I want to lose about 20 lbs but mostly be fit and stay active.

How has your life changed since becoming a member? 

Since joining  WFOB, I now enjoy working out and look forward to come the gym

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong?

I really enjoy all the classes. I definitely have more strength and endurance since joining

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB?

WFOB is a great judgment free zone where you can get a good workout at your own pace.  No pressure. I love it!

Meet Melissa, our Lady of October!

Meet Kathy, Our Lady of September!

What do you do for work?

I’m a Branch Administrative Manager at a financial services firm in Downtown Boston

What made you join WFOB?

I left my job after many years to help establish a Boston presence of my new firm. In my previous position, I was sedentary and had stress related health issues. I needed to feel healthy and strong again, and WFOB was the perfect fit for me. I immediately felt the support from my trainer as well as the other members. WFOB has everything I need to get back on my fitness track.

What are your fitness goals?

There’s a history of osteoporosis in my family, and I hope to maintain strong bones to potentially delay the onset. I also love feeling strong and healthy. I have no intention of growing old gracefully, and I plan to fight it every step of the way. Haha!

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong?

The combination of strength training and cardio has really increased my endurance. I love how strong I feel after a training session workout with Julie.

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB?

WFOB really is the place to go if you are serious about your current and future health as a woman. They have great trainers with so much knowledge, diverse classes and the equipment and tools to help women of any age reach their goals.

Meet Julie, Our Lady of August!

What do you do for work? 

I work for a Boston based Real Estate Company managing a portfolio of properties.

What made you join WFOB?

WFOB is the perfect location and has the greatest classes every single week day atnoon and one.

What are your fitness goals?

Fitness has been an integral part of my routine since college, always with the goal of staying healthy, mentally sharp and fit enough to do whatever peaks my interest.

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong?

Completing the push up challenge during a STRONG class.

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB? 

Classes are really fun, the instructors are compelling, motivating and accommodating and the work out environment is welcoming, non-judgement and competitive to whatever level you want to engage.

July is all about Shannon and Lauren! Read about these sisters here.

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB?

We love WFOB, it’s such a great community and is the perfect environment to build confidence as well as strength!

What do you do for work?

We work together for the state processing Social Security claims. 

What made you join WFOB?
Last summer our HR department had trainers from WFOB come in and teach classes during lunch, we loved the classes so much that we decided to give WFOB a try.

What are your fitness goals?

Shannon – I turned 30 last summer and realized that I needed to start taking my health more seriously.  My goal is just to feel my best.
Lauren – I always say my goals are to lose fat and build muscle, but as I’m becoming healthier both mentally and physically, I’m focusing on pushing myself outside of my comfort zone more often.

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong?

Shannon – I wouldn’t say that there is one specific move that makes me feel strong, but I love the feeling of mastering a new move that has been introduced during class.

Lauren – Lately I’ve really been enjoying Strength and Conditioning, the drop sets and super sets are killer, but once I’m done and have made it through I feel awesome.

June is for Flora! Read about one of our most consistent gym-goer!

What do you do for work?

I work at McCarter and English as Paralegal.

What made you join WFOB?

A co-worker had given me a free week pass to the gym and I really liked the variety of classes and how friendly and welcoming the staff was.

What are your fitness goals?

My goals are to continuously keep up my fitness and continue to be motivated through my workouts.

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong?

My favorite class right now is Strong by Zumba. I have to focus to push through but always feels the most rewarding when the workout is over.

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB?

Going to WFOB is something I look forward to each day – the classes are always fun and challenging and the more I go, the more motivated I feel.  The atmosphere is high-energy and non-judgmental.

Amy is our May ray of sunshine!

What do you do for work?

I work as an assistant professor of English at Suffolk University. I teach mostly creative writing, which is what I also do on the side–personal essay, memoir, a little poetry here and there. Amy is the author of Close Quarters, a chapbook memoir about unconventional divorce (Sweet Publications), and the essay collection How to Euthanize a Horse, which won the 2016 Arcadia ress Chapbook Prize. Click HERE learn more about her work.

What made you join WFOB?
I think I joined WFOB in spring 2015. I’d been eyeing the place for months on my way to work (it’s just outside my train stop), but assumed that a women’s-only gym in downtown Boston would be too expensive. Still, I loved the idea of exercising between work and home–my daughter was an infant when I joined, and I knew I’d be faithful to my workouts only if I did them before she saw me at the end of the day. The membership price turned out to be really affordable, too!

What are your fitness goals?

My doctor would say that my fitness goal is to lose 5 pounds before my next annual visit, and I agree that would be nice, but mostly, I want to keep my heart healthy (my father died of a heart attack at 63), and build endurance and strength. Also, I exercised a lot in the years before my daughter was born, and I learned that endorphins are the key to managing my anxiety. I sleep better at night, teach better during the day, and write with a clearer head when I’m getting regular exercise. Plus, gym time is the only time of the day when I’m thinking about my needs, and not someone else’s. The mental benefits probably outweigh the physical benefits to me, but I’m glad I don’t have to choose!

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong?

I’m into spinning classes (I take them Monday evenings at WFOB and at other spots around Boston whenever I can), and what makes me feel strong is climbing those hills on high resistance, speeding through Tabata-style sprints, and doing isolation exercises on the bike. My daughter was born via C-section, so my core was a mess when I came to WFOB. Isolation exercises have helped me regain enough core strength that I can now do planks!

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB?

So many things! The staff is phenomenal and body-diverse, the facilities are sparkling clean, and the vibe is supportive in a that special way of feminist spaces–we’re here for ourselves, but also for each other. The women I spin with are as essential to the class as the instructor. Also, Dawn’s tank tops are pure genius.

Rachel is April… almost rhymes!

Name: Rachel Chom

What do you do for work? I’m a Finance Manager at a marketing agency in the South End.

What made you join WFOB? And how long have you been a member? I found out about WFOB when my friends and I found a Groupon for Zumba classes. This was FIVE years ago! We became members shortly after that.

What are your fitness goals? My fitness goal is to tone my body, maintain my current weight, and be able to brush my teeth without my stomach jiggling.

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong? Why? A power pose that I like is putting my fists on my hips, elbows out, and legs spread apart. This pose makes me feel like a BAWWWWWWSE!

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB? This gym is a judgement-free zone with really great women sweating alongside you and super friendly staff.

March is for Mariel!

What do you do for work? I’m an Executive Assistant at Wayfair

What made you join WFOB? And how long have you been a member? I joined a little under three years ago after falling in love with Monday Zumba!

What are your fitness goals? I just want to be healthy and strong and to feel a little less guilty after a tasty burger visit.

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong? Why? I wouldn’t say it makes me feel strong but I feel awesome after a round of jump squats in Zumba!

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB? Everyone from the staff to members are incredibly personable and fun. No gym snobs here!

February celebrates Dassie and her birthday!

What do you do for work?
I am the  Director of Operations for the City Clerk’s Office at the City of Boston.

What made you join WFOB? And how long have you been a member?
I joined Women’s Fitness of Boston because after donating a kidney to my dad, staying fit became important. I found that the staff is very friendly and the location is very convenient to my job. I have been a member for over seven years now.

What are your fitness goals? My fitness goal is to maintain my weight and get help from a personal trainer.

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong? Why? I love Spinning,  Piloxing, and Pound. The classes are very high energy. The members are all very supportive and and friendly. We are all gym buddies.

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB?
The staff at WFOB are so very warm and friendly. Robin, Helena and the other front desk gals are very nice. Dawn is my Personal Trainer and she is the best. Quincy and Julie are also very nice!

Ring in the Lady of December: Cali

Name: Cali Touloumes

What do you do for work?
I am a High School Math Teacher at Excel Academy Charter High School in East Boston.

What made you join WFOB? And how long have you been a member?
I first moved to Boston a few months before joining WFOB. I was new to the area and determined to find a gym to keep up my exercise routine and be a part of a community. The fact that WFOB is only for women really enticed me to join so I took a week of free classes and loved my experience at POUND so I signed up! I’ve been a member for one year and two months now and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made.

What are your fitness goals?
My fitness goals are to tone my muscles, build up my core, and continue to feel positive in my own skin. I love walking away from any of the classes and feeling accomplished that I was able to do one more pose or move better than I did the last time. And although my muscles are always sore the next day, it’s so worth it.

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong? Why?
BURPEES! When I first started doing them in Dawn’s Kick and Sculpt or Quincy’s Strength and Conditioning class I had to do the modified version and step back into them. Now I can do them and feel great!

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB?
Everyone should know that WFOB is a great gym with great people. The staff are extremely helpful in pushing you towards your fitness goals. The members are lovely women that encourage you during the classes no matter your age, size, or ability. Also I’m a huge fan of the classes – every day it’s something different and the instructors change up the routines too so you are constantly engaged and challenged. The gym is easy to get by T and the price is unbeatable.

Meet Emily – the Lady of November.

What do you do for work? I am a Public Participation Coordinator at a public affairs consulting firm in downtown Boston.

What made you join WFOB? I received such a warm welcome at my first visit to WFOB that I knew it was the perfect gym for me. I wanted a gym that would challenge me and have a friendly supportive community at the same time. And how long have you been a member? I’ve been a member for about three months now.

What are your fitness goals? To tone up in general, and also increase my upper body strength for better posture. I like to feel active after sitting at a desk most of the day.

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong? Why? I really enjoy the variety of classes offered at WFOB, but I especially love how Dawn incorporates weights into the Kick & Sculpt classes to really “sculpt” your upper body! When I first started, I only used 2 lb weights. After a few weeks I started using 3 lbs and now feel comfortable using 5 lbs for a lot of the moves. It’s awesome to feel my body adapting and growing.

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB? I think everyone should know that WFOB has far exceeded any expectations I had for a gym immediately upon joining. I never expected to find a gym that I actually looked forward to going to after work each day. It is a place for women of ALL fitness levels. I was nervous to join a gym at first because I hadn’t exercised in so long, but any reservations or self-consciousness I had went right out the door upon meeting the friendly staff, instructors and members. Plus you cannot beat the price for what you get at WFOB, especially for a gym in downtown Boston. I only wish I made myself join years ago!

Lisa was the lady of October.

Read what inspires her below.

Name: Lisa Purter, pictured above with her Nana

What do you do for work?  I am a manager at Pathstone Federal Street.

What made you join WFOB? And how long have you been a member? I joined WFOB (5 months ago) so I don’t look like a pear by the time I’m 50 🙂

Also, my Nana is my inspiration to be active and to exercise. She walks two to three miles with her dog “Uncle Sonny” every single day. We hang out just about every Saturday doing girl stuff – shopping, eating, and most importantly enjoying each other’s company. She is my best friend! Usually after hanging out with her I need a nap and she goes for walk.

I need WFOB so I can be just as young and fit as my Nana when I get her age.

What are your fitness goals?  To lose about 20 pounds and keep it off.

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong? Dawn’s sit-ups! Why? When I first started going to her class I couldn’t even do one. Now I can do five. LOL!  I’m very proud of this accomplishment. Dawn’s classes are challenging and I love it!!!

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB? You will NEVER find a gym for this price. There is no judgement here! The staff is friendly and so aren’t the ladies. I’ve been working in Boston for over 15 years. Wish I found this place years ago.

September was for Abigail! Read her WFOB story below and know why staying fit is important to her.

The Lady of August was Hallie! We have her answering all of our questions this month. Read below to find out what motivates her and why she loves WFOB!

What do you do for work?
I work at the Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston as the Visitor Experience Manager.

What made you join WFOB? And how long have you been a member?
I joined almost a year ago after realizing I wanted to change my daily routine and find a healthy outlet for stress. I chose WFOB for its size, location, and of course, the fact that it’s all women.

What are your fitness goals?
Really simply: have a healthier lifestyle, lose some weight, and become stronger.

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong? Why?
Honestly, leaving the gym after knowing I’ve dedicated time to my physical wellbeing does the trick. It’s motivating to be able to see definite change in your ability to do certain things. Planks always make me feel strong!

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB?
The atmosphere is really great and not intimidating at all. It’s a genuinely welcoming place, which just adds incentive for you to go regularly and make it a part of your routine.

July was a month for two fit ladies –

Tamena (TJ) and Hellina (HW) – a mother and daughter who workout together most evenings. See recent Northeastern graduate and her proud mother below and read why WFOB has made them fitter and happier! You may also recognize Hellina from the front desk. Be sure to wish her a happy birthday this month too.

What do you do for work?
TJ: I work at Northeastern University in the Office of Student Loan as a Loan Representative.

HW: I work for a private housing company on Beacon Hill.

What made you join WFOB? And how long have you been a member?
TJ: My daughter has been a member of WFOB since April of 2013. I noticed how fit she has become since she had joined the gym which made me want to get fit as well. I purchased 20 classes from Groupon to check out classes being offered at the gym. I happened to take Dawn’s Piloxing class one Tuesday and really enjoyed the workout I received from the class. I also took Dawn’s POUND class on Wednesday and Kick N Sculpt on Thursday which at first I wasn’t crazy about. The more I went to the classes the more I enjoyed them. It was at that point I had decided I would join the gym when I finished my classes. I became a member January 31 and have been a member now for seven months.

HW: My co-workers would rant and rave about the classes during the lunch hours and evening. I loved that idea because I needed something to keep me interested and stay focused. I never had a set routine or regimen, so the classes were perfect. I think I’m going on 3 to 4 years… I’m not completely sure.

What are your fitness goals?
TJ: My fitness goals are to lower my body fat percentage, get stronger, and make fitness part of my routine. I feel with the different classes that I take at WFOB I’ve found my mojo and this is what keeps motivated.

HW: I want to lose weight, stay healthy and tone up!

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong? Why?
TJ: I feel like I get the best workouts with Piloxing and Kick N Sculpt. The incorporation of the weights in Kick N Sculpt is great. Dawn always pushes you to your limits and definitely corrects you if your form is not right. I leave class feeling like a force to be reckoned with and that I can take on the world. I also leave pretty sore but I keep telling myself no pain no gain and go hard or go home!

HW: Burpees, they used to be very challenging, but not as much now. It takes time to do them correctly. I can hold my weight and they make me sweat quickly to burn off more calories.

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB?
TJ: The staff at WFOB are amazing. In the short time I’ve been there I feel right at home. The members are very friendly and make you feel welcomed. If you’re looking for a gym I would definitely recommend WFOB. Dawn is the best instructor. She is one of the contributing factors of why I joined WFOB. If you are looking for a place to get a great work out and get pushed to your limits, then WFOB is the place for you.

HW: It’s an all-women’s gym with so much to offer – right in the downtown Boston area with classes offered every day of the week. Also, great trainers to help you reach your goal of weight gain or weight loss.

June was all for Jaime.

Check out what brought her to WFOB and why she loves it!

What do you do for work?
I’m a marketing princess at a law firm. I manage the food and beverage, healthcare, and retail sectors.

What made you join WFOB? And how long have you been a member?
I was looking for a woman only gym in downtown Boston when I used to work near Macy’s. I wanted to find a gym that I could go to during my lunch break and started doing some research. I popped into the gym one day after work and joined on the spot. I signed up for training after I got engaged – like most women do. Unfortunately the economy took a nose dive and I had to give up the training but I picked it back up and have been doing it with Julie for about five years. I look better now than I did on my wedding day. HAH I’ve been a member of the gym since 2006.

What are your fitness goals?
I’d like to work on maintaining my weight loss, and toning my hips and thighs which as Julie knows is my problem area. I’m also trying to get rid of my back fat for tank top and swimsuit season! And I’d like to work on building my core strength so I’ve got a few goals 🙂

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong? Why?
Being able to do full burpees back to back to back at the end of a workout or class without feeling like I’m going to die.

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB?
That it’s right in downtown crossing! I think a lot of people walk right past the gym without knowing it exists. And no matter what your fitness goals are there is something for you at WFOB.

May was the month to celebrate Kathy Lillis, pictured on the right below.

Read her compelling journey to fitness.

What do you do for work?
I work for the Government.

What made you join WFOB?
I got hit by a truck in April 2014 and lost a lot of muscle strength and stamina. After PT I tried getting better on my own but wasn’t healing fast enough. I knew I needed help.

How long have you been a member?
My sister, Diane, who is also a member gave me a bunch of training sessions for my 60^th birthday in November, 2015 and I have been hooked ever since.

What are your fitness goals?
To get back stronger physically and emotionally before getting nailed by the truck. Whenever I complain to my trainer, Quincy that I need to slow down and remind her that I am 61 after all, she responds back that its “ability, not age.” She pushes me long after I would have stopped if alone. Quincy, Julie, and fellow members have given me such encouragement to keep on even when discouraged. I know I am stronger for them.

What is the pose/move?
I love kicking and punching in Piloxing. It is very empowering. Now when I walk to the gym, instead of getting bumped around, now I am the one doing the bumping!

What should everyone know about WFOB?
It is a warm, welcoming place with awesome classes and encouraging staff that will keep you coming back and seeing wonderful results. WFOB and my sister got me on the road to recovery. Life changer.

April was the month of Vineela Tummala.

Read all about this amazing member of WFOB below.

What do you do for work?
I am an Application Administration Release Engineer at Financial Client

What made you join WFOB? And how long have you been a member?
Friendly, conveniently-located (near all four metro lines), and reasonably-priced, WFOB is the best deal in the area. I have been a  member for over 6+ years. I am really glad I joined WFOB! This gym has great classes at convenient times with awesome instructors and friendly staff in general. I also started personal training session with one of the trainers, Dawn, to help me reach my fitness goals (as listed below). My experience with Dawn is that she is super energetic. I always look forward to working out with her. She varies the workout, makes it fun, and I have seen real changes to my body, flexibility, and balance.

What are your fitness goals?
Whatever your workout/exercise related goal may be and no matter how broad or specific it may be, the first key step in creating the workout routine that will work best for you is figuring out what your overall fitness goal is. After starting personal training sessions with Dawn, I am very proud of myself for being able to achieve my goals: Lowering my body fat percentage, getting stronger, making fitness a part of my routine, achieving sports conditioning and maintaining my health.

(I always love challenging Dawn for her marine workouts… 🙂)

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong? Why?
I love all the classes! You’ll never get bored with the high-energy workout group classes. My favorite classes are Spin, Piloxing, Pound, and Tabata. These classes will strengthen your body, tone and elongate your muscles, improve endurance, jump start your metabolism (so you burn calories all day long not just while you in class), increase flexibility and postural alignment, and improve core strength and balance. You’ll leave feeling Lean. Long. Strong.

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB?
Julie and her  staff are very warm and will greet you each time you walk in here (come here enough and they’ll remember you by name). If you are looking to push yourself, I promise you will get what you need from the experience… a great workout with someone who will teach you how to get the most from yourself physically!

I’ve met most of the other trainers and they’re all super nice and know a lot about training. I would recommend all of them!

GET READY TO LOOK BETTER & FEEL BETTER!

The last? Monica Anderson. Learn more about Monica and her time at WFOB below. She is our WFOB Lady of the Month for March 2017.

What do you do for work? Investment Company

What made you  join WFOB? I struggle  with  high blood pressure and wanted to lose weight plus get in shape but with the assistance of a trainer.  I needed that push!  I needed the weekly commitment!

How long you been a member? I have been a member over a year and a half and did not attend as frequently as I do now.

What are your fitness goals? My fitness goal was to maintain a weight that is healthy for me and continue exercising especially after seeing results with the help of a trainer.

What is the Pose/Move in any class or workout and why? If my workout attire matches I feel any class or workout will go smoothly. My trainer will always comment and provide positive constructive criticism when my workout attire looks good and that makes me feel like I can enjoy any class or workout and feel sexy and strong.

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB? Up until I met Julie (Owner and Personal Trainer of WFOB in addition to her staff) workout facilities were not fulfilling my desire to continue working out. I now enjoy attending classes at WFOB. WFOB is a quaint women’s gym with no pressure on your body structure nor age. WFOB makes me feel like another workout class and/or PT session will get me one step closer to being healthy. With that being said all you ladies out there come to WFOB and try the POUND WORKOUT CLASS-You will love it!

 Up Next- Jen Vlasuk! 

What do you do for work? Relationship Manager – Vice President at a bank

What made you join WFOB? And how long have you been a member? I’ve had a membership for over 10 years. I joined to workout with a coworker who was a member. She was injured and quit so I came sporadically, then not at all…. we’ll use the term “member” loosely for those 8 years. I started coming again in 2014 because I wanted to feel good about myself. I signed up for personal training because that is not always enough to make me go.

What are your fitness goals? To be fit by fifty. Haven’t quite figured the rest out yet.

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong? Why? I feel strong when I have finished a training session, and I think.  “I JUST DID THAT!!!  I didn’t think I could, it wasn’t pretty, but I did it. And next time it will be harder and I will do that too…”

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB? It doesn’t matter what your fitness level is. The staff is there for you, they want you to succeed at whatever made you walk through their door.

Chanda Ruff, pictured here.

What do you do for work? Senior Credit Analyst at Wells Fargo – I work with Borrowers in the Retail Finance department.

What made you join WFOB? And how long have you been a member? I had considered joining a gym for quite some time and while I was walking to work one day, I saw the Women’s Fitness of Boston sign hanging on School Street. I didn’t go into the gym right that minute but realized that I was still thinking about the gym a few days later, so I chose to sign up the following week during the fall of 2015. I hadn’t even considered an all-women gym but I loved the idea once I realized that one existed literally 5 minutes from my job.

What are your fitness goals? At first, I just wanted to lose weight but now I’ve accomplished that goal and I’m all about building muscle. I’m also trying to develop a better relationship with food that will enable me to feel like it’s OK to eat a slice of pizza (or 2, or maybe 3…) without feeling like I have to run to the gym afterwards.

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong? Why? BODYSHRED in general! Talk about a class that kicks your butt each time! Getting through a BODYSHRED class makes me feel like I can conquer the world afterwards because it’s so tough and physically demanding.

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB? The personal training is wonderful! I work with Quincy specifically and she’s great! She’s always pushing me to give it my all and always showing me some crazy new exercise!

Who was first up? Yolande Haydon, pictured below.

What do you do for work? I’m the Business Manager for a drug development company focusing on Alzheimer’s disease. As it’s a virtual company, I work at home, which means my work outfit some days is a bathrobe.

What made you join WFOB? And how long have you been a member? By Thanksgiving of 2011 I had put on a LOT of weight and knew that I had to move more and eat less or turn into a giant, inactive blob. I managed to improve my eating habits a bit and started walking, but eventually realized I needed help to step up the exercise and add strength training. Lo and behold! In 2013 Women’s Fitness of Boston was offering a personal training special that I decided to try. Three years later, I’m still training.

What are your fitness goals? I’m trying to keep the weight off (I do NOT want to buy clothes in a bigger size), keep strong and keep moving. I can tell that the personal training has made a difference when I’m out sailing and my husband tells me to grind winches; my back, arms, legs and core are all more able to keep up.

What is the pose or move in any class or workout that makes you feel strong? Why? My favorite part of a workout changes from week to week as I like variety, but I’m pretty keen on a boxing workout as it makes me feel like a beast. A short, white-haired beast.

What do you think everyone should know about WFOB? The support at WFOB is outstanding, not just as a client but as part of an extended family. I had a health problem in the last year and both staff and other members of WFOB encouraged me as I went through treatment.