Category Archives: Uncategorized

September 2014 Member Spotlight: Karen Robbins

Jeff Roux, owner of and lead trainer at Excel Fitness first met Karen in 2009. Despite sensing her skepticism regarding training, Jeff was able to convince Karen to attend an initial and complementary consultation session. Jeff spent considerable time researching Karen’s self-described physical ailments, goals, and other health concerns after their initial meeting. He then felt confident that he could effectively adapt a work out to suit Karen’s needs. Jeff explains that, “a second workout was required to thoroughly convince her [Karen] of our abilities at Excel Fitness; she and her husband Dave joined the gym shortly thereafter.  What I didn’t realize at the time, is that Karen is whole heartedly dedicated to her health and improved fitness! I am continually impressed with her work ethic and ability to implement many of the things she has learned throughout training into her own workouts.” Jeff adds, “Karen is a true role model to anyone starting a fitness program, particularly those who have had injuries and setbacks with prior fitness routines.” KR Cable Pull

Karen states, I walked into Excel five years ago, having decided I might benefit from working with a trainer and in search of a new gym – The Fitness Clinic had closed. I spoke with Jeff and set up an appointment for a trial training session. I was somewhat skeptical, having a number of “parts” issues and went into the first workout with caution.”

Jeff met and exceeded my expectations for the next two years, where I found myself gaining strength in areas of weakness. A breast cancer survivor for almost 20 years, I have some limitations because of the surgery and reconstruction I underwent. I was extremely pleased with my progress and lost some weight as well. My next challenge was still ahead.

During the freakish snowstorm in October, 2011, I tripped going down the basement steps during the power failure. I had extensive injuries to my left shoulder, had a failed surgical repair, ultimately going to Boston for a reverse shoulder replacement. After five months of shoulder/arm immobilization, and six months of PT, I was able to resume working out at the gym. Jeff was and continues to be a huge part of my rehab, adapting workouts to accommodate my various “parts,” including the permanent restrictions with my shoulder, and enhance its strengthening. He pushes me in ways I would not push myself, and consistently introduces new approaches for strengthening and endurance. I give Jeff credit for the level of strength and function I have attained with ever changing workouts and encouragement. Kudos to Jeff and Excel Fitness for being such an integral part of my recovery! KR

Summer 2014 Newsletter!

Welcome New Trainers:
Kyle and Kim! 

Kyle Appellof, HFS 

Kyle Prof Pic

Education: 

Bachelors of Science, Exercise Science, Central Connecticut State University, 2014

Certifications and Experience:

American College of Sports Medicine, Health Fitness Specialist, 2014: ACSM Health Fitness Specialists assists those with medically controlled diseases and health conditions, as well as apparently healthy clients, in adopting and maintaining healthy lifestyle behaviors. Academic preparation also includes fitness management, administration, and supervision.

Class LL Football Athlete, 2004-2006

Future Fitness, Newington, CT, 2014: Trained professional athletes in the MLB and NHL; additional professional responsibilities include: youth soccer trainer, adult rugby group-training, and circuit training for Berlin High School football.

CPR/AED Certified, American Heart Association, 2013

Motivation for Fitness:

I have been an athlete for the majority of my life. Being active is both a habit as well as a conscientious part of my lifestyle. I strive to increase my personal health and fitness as well as that of any individual I work with.

Interests:

I enjoy playing basketball and volleyball for leisure and softball competitively. In recent years, golf has proven to be an amazing stress reliever as well as a great way to keep active. I strive to exercise 4-5 days a week and do something active every day.  I am a graduate of Xavier High School in Middletown and Central Connecticut State University. I chose to go into Exercise Science because I have had three knee surgeries and I want to be able to help others rehabilitate and increase their functional abilities so that they may reach their fitness goals.

Quote:

“It isn’t the mountains ahead to climb that wear you out; it’s the pebble in your shoe.”-Muhammad Ali

Kimberly Cooper, C.P.T.

Education:
Bachelors of Science, Exercise Science, University of Maine, 2011

Certifications and Relevant Experience:
Exercise Technician, ProEx Physical Therapy, 2012-present

Assistant Coach, Track and Field- Sprinters and Multi-Events, University of Maine, 2008-2011

Teaching Assistant, Adapted Physical Education, 2010

Volunteer Lifeguard, American Field Service: 2009-2010

a nonprofit organization that allows high school students the opportunity to travel abroad. Students came from all over the world for 1 year and lived with families across the US to experience the United States culture and lifestyle. I volunteered for their Maine branch for weekend events that allowed all AFS students to come together a few times a year to share their experiences with each other.

Health Professions Club: 2008-2011

Dental Outreach: 2009-2011

Visited local elementary schools to explain the importance and educate young children on oral health and also included a week-long trip to northern Main to screen/educate migrant farm workers.

Swim Instructor and Lifeguard, 2006-2010

Interests and Specialties:

Hiking, Camping, Biking, Running Skiing, Nutrition, ANYTHING WITH KIDS!!!

Motivation for Fitness:

I have always been active, athletic and excited to keep my body moving. It makes me feel good- about my health, my body, and my mind. Staying active and fit is great way for me to stay involved with my community, have fun with my friends and family, and works as my stress reliever while enhancing my serenity. I can’t imagine my life without it.

Health Quote:

“Try and fail, but don’t EVER fail to try!” – Stephan Kaggwa

Student/Faculty Membership Specials
September 2014!

Do you have friends or family that want to get into shape but keep putting off joining a gym? 

We’ll set them up with a phenomenal monthly rate, a complimentary 60-minute consultation with one of our trainers, and a discounted massage therapy session!!

 $20/Month Membership for Students

 $28/Month Faculty Membership

Training and Massage Therapy Specials Available!*  

*Student memberships and massage therapy discounts limited to new members and 1st time massage therapy clients.

**Valid student ID required

***Must be 18 years or older OR accompanied by a parent or guardian at the time of enrollment

CONGRATULATIONS HEATHER: PROMOTED TO FITNESS COORDINATOR! 
Heather moved back to CT two and a half years ago after her son was born. She has since had a second child, bought a new house, and is ready to share her years of management experience with Excel Fitness.  Prior to moving back to CT, Heather managed the Fitness and Wellness Division of Blue Cross Blue Shield North Carolina.  She was charged with promoting health and wellness to the entire employee population by coordinating health fairs, incentive programs, and running the fitness center.  We are looking forward to Heather’s expertise in managing all aspects of the Excel Fitness personal training program, new memberships, and team building events!

 

August Member Spotlight: Honoring Susan Balaban! 
 

Excel Fitness is honoring Susan Balaban for her dedication and commitment to health and fitness. Susan first came to Excel Fitness after pleading with her daughter, Excel Fitness trainer Ilicia Balaban for over three years to help motivate her to exercise and lose weight. Ilicia finally granted her mother’s request as a 70th birthday present, a gift that keeps on giving. Ilicia remarks, “My mom has good days and bad days but regardless she demonstrates incredible persistence and respect for her strengths and limitations. Even when she really doesn’t want to work out, she shows up on time for sessions and respects the professionalism of the trainer/trainee relationship. Working with my mother has proven to be one of my greatest challenges and most rewarding victories. I have witnessed incredible changes and improvements in both her confidence and quality of life!” 

Susan adds: I’ve had diabetes type II for 42 years and the nasty consequences of that disease for more than three decades. It has left me in pain most of the time and my flexibility, my balance and ambulatory abilities compromised. I don’t like to exercise so in the past I had periodic spurts of treadmill work and then long absences from the gym.

Four years ago, my daughter Ilicia became a licensed physical trainer and began working for a unique gym, Excel Fitness in West Hartford. I call it unique because Excel caters to a “mature clientele” with care and understanding of where they are in their physical health.

January 2013, Ilicia began training me at Excel. I walked in that day hanging on rather firmly to my cane. The atmosphere was warm and friendly and Ilicia’s gentle expertise, exuberant, spirited personality and radiant smile helps me to enjoy the experience and I keep coming back for more; NOW, without my cane.

Thank you Excel Fitness and Ilicia!

 

SAVE THE DATE: 4TH Annual Wine Tasting to Benefit Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 2014!
Thursday, October 16th 2014 6-8 p.m.
DOOR PRIZES FROM OVER 20 LOCAL SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS!
SILENT AND LIVE AUCTION!
20% OF ALL WINE SOLD TO BENEFIT BREAST CANCER RESEARCH
PAST AND PRESENT BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS TO SPEAK!
Recipe Spotlight: Healthy Summer Dessert Tips: Grilled Pineapple with Nutella: 
Grill the pineapple slices until heated through and beginning to brown, about 3 minutes per side. It’s important to leave the pineapples on the grill, untouched so that you can create the grill marks.
While the pineapples are cooking, whisk the mascarpone and vanilla in a small bowl to blend. Set aside.
Combine the chocolate-hazelnut spread and cream in a small bowl and stir to combine. Place in a microwave on high for about 2 minutes, stirring every 20 seconds to blend well. Alternatively, you can combine the chocolate-hazelnut spread and cream in a small saucepan, set over low heat, and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Heat until satiny smooth and easy to pour, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Transfer the pineapple slices to a large platter. Drizzle the warm chocolate-hazelnut sauce over.
Dollop the mascarpone mixture atop. Sprinkle with the hazelnuts and serve.
Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/grilled-pineapple-with-nutella-recipe.html

August 2014 Member Spotlight: Susan Balaban

Excel Fitness is honoring Susan Balaban for her dedication and commitment to health and fitness. Susan first came to Excel Fitness after pleading with her daughter, Excel Fitness trainer Ilicia Balaban for over three years to help motivate her to exercise and lose weight. Ilicia finally granted her mother’s request as a 70th birthday present, a gift that keeps on giving. Ilicia remarks, “My mom has good days and bad days but regardless she demonstrates incredible persistence and respect for her strengths and limitations. Even when she really doesn’t want to work out, she shows up on time for sessions and respects the professionalism of the trainer/trainee relationship. Working with my mother has proven to be one of my greatest challenges and most rewarding victories. I have witnessed incredible changes and improvements in both her confidence and quality of life!” 20140730_113804

Susan adds: I’ve had diabetes type II for 42 years and the nasty consequences of that disease for more than three decades. It has left me in pain most of the time and my flexibility, my balance and ambulatory abilities compromised. I don’t like to exercise so in the past I had periodic spurts of treadmill work and then long absences from the gym.

Four years ago, my daughter Ilicia became a licensed physical trainer and began working for a unique gym, Excel Fitness in West Hartford. I call it unique because Excel caters to a “mature clientele” with care and understanding of where they are in their physical health.

January 2013, Ilicia began training me at Excel. I walked in that day hanging on rather firmly to my cane. The atmosphere was warm and friendly and Ilicia’s gentle expertise, exuberant, spirited personality and radiant smile helps me to enjoy the experience and I keep coming back for more; NOW, without my cane.

Thank you Excel Fitness and Ilicia!

Excel Fitness Joins 4th Annual Survivors of Homicide Golf Tournament!

Saturday, July 26th 2014, Excel Fitness trainer, Ilicia Balaban teamed up with Survivors of Homicide for their 4th Annual Charity Golf Tournament at the Grassmere Country Club in Enfield, CT. Ilicia worked with retired PGA-professional golfer Mike Colandro to encourage, motivate, and provide golfers with health and fitness tips as they progressed through the scramble. “It was an incredibly fun and exciting event for a great cause, explained Ilicia.” Kudos to Survivors of Homicide Founder, Art Jensen for his tireless commitment to providing support to the friends and families of homicide victims. Excel Fitness looks forward to attending again next year and continuing to build what has proved to be a lucrative and powerful partnership. Survivors of Homicide Gold Tournament

Do you belong to a charitable organization in the greater Hartford area that is currently collecting raffle or auction items for an upcoming event? Contact Ilicia (860) 523-8167 today for more information!

July 2014 Member Spotlight: Leona Gwaz

Leona Gwaz, humanitarian, philanthropist, and activist first came to Excel Fitness in 2010 hoping to lose weight and get in better shape. Since then she has lost 40 lbs and over 3% percent body fat. Leona has placed within the top three slots of the Excel Fitness ‘Our Biggest Loser’ competitions for both 2011 and 2013.  Additionally, in 2013, Leona underwent a double knee replacement to contend with worn away cartilage in both of her knees. The lack of existing cartilage had been causing increasingly severe pain issues and resulted in an increased anti-inflammatory/pain medication regimen.  At the time of her surgery, consistent swimming and water based activities were the only thing effectively helping to keep the knee swelling at bay.

Watch Video: Leona Gets Up Off the Floor with Ease!

Leona was diligent in maintaining a modified training regimen in preparation for the surgery. Following surgery and a full physical therapy protocol, Leona returned to small-group training classes with Excel Fitness trainer Ilicia Balaban while also restarting her own swimming and cardiovascular fitness routine under the guidance of her doctors. “Leona is a phenomenal example of what it means to be fully committed to fitness! She listens to her body, pushes as hard as she can, and knows when she needs to back off. I am honored to have worked with and psyched to continue working with clients as steadfast as Leona,” says Balaban.

The team of trainers at Excel Fitness have chosen to recognize Leona as our July 2014 Excel Fitness Spotlight Member for her continued dedication to improving her health as well as the health of our immediate community and communities around the world.

Here’s what Leona has to say about her experience at Excel Fitness:

My introduction to Excel Fitness was through then co-owner Shawn O’Brien. He said, “Sign up for the ‘Our Biggest Loser’ contest, and I’ll take care of that limp too!” Twenty-five pounds lighter and able to walk down the stairs like a normal person, he convinced me that ‘to run like a gazelle’ was also as good as to be ‘strong like bull.’” Several years later, Shawn and I had a heart to heart and decided it was finally time for knee replacement surgery.

Ilicia conditioned me before and has continued to do so now after the operations. My most recent accomplishment was to be able to get down to and up from the floor without holding on to anything! Previously, it was ALL arm strength that enabled me to pull myself up. My sessions with the trainers at Excel Fitness are continuous physical therapy for me!

Special thanks to Jeff Roux, Excel Fitness has truly accelerated my life with fun, inspiration, perspiration, and results! – The Gwaz-inator

Ice Cream Social: Healthy Helpings: Wed. 7/9 and 7/23 6-7 p.m.

Ice Cream Social: Healthy Helpings!

Wednesday, July 9th and Wednesday, July 23rd  6-7 p.m.

Join Team Excel Fitness and A.C. Petersen Farms for a special ice cream social and presentation!

We know its summer and like it or not, ice cream happens! Instead of feeling guilty for indulging, let the team of certified personal trainers at Excel Fitness help to educate you regarding appropriate portion sizes and differences in the types of frozen treats available!

Blind taste-testing of several different convections offered at A.C. Petersen Farms. Can you tell the difference between a full fat/full sugar ice cream, a low-carb/no added sugar ice cream, and a frozen yogurt?

Health and Nutrition Coach, Samantha Forbes will be on premises to answer any questions regarding the most appropriate choice for you and your loved ones.

Excel Fitness’ Guest Speaker Series is open to the public and free of charge!

Space is limited: Call Excel Fitness (860) 523-8167 to reserve your space today!

New Customer Review and Testimonial

“Zac Brazalovich is does an exceptional job of personal training tailoring the work-out to the client. He pushes me to my limits and encourages me along the way. If you are motivated, hard working and want to take your fitness to the next level, Zac is definitely the person to get you there.”

N. Nelson, West Hartford, CT

Check back in with excelfitnessct.com for more great customer reviews and testimonials!

Already enjoying membership, training, or other facility services offered? Review Excel Fitness on Yelp! or Google Places and be entered into our raffle for a FREE 30-Min. Massage or Personal Training Session!

Excel Fitness Congratulates June Spotlight Member James Malcom

James Malcom first came to Excel Fitness seeking to lose weight, build strength, and get in shape for an upcoming vacation. Initially, James joined our small-group training classes and immediately took to a vigorous cardiovascular and strength based routine. After several months, James decided to invest in one-on-one personal training under the direction of Excel Fitness trainers Zac and Ilicia. Today, he is able to jump higher, run faster, and exudes confidence with every step he takes. James TRX and BOSU

James has demonstrated unfailing commitment and determination to achieve his goals and that is why he is being honored as June’s Excel Fitness Spotlight Member. We are extremely proud of the work and dedication James has shown throughout personal training sessions and in his solo workouts as well. James commitment to clean eating is also deserving of commendation. James has proven time and time again to be an exemplary client and member of the Excel Fitness community. Congratulations!

James has the following to say about his experience at Excel Fitness: I want to take this time to thank you for your help in getting me in shape for summer.  It has been a fantastic journey for me, which I began last summer.  I have worked out with both Ilicia and Zach.  They have been tremendous in supporting me through my journey.

I started out weighing about 192 lbs at 32 % body fat.  As of today, I’m down to 174 lbs and most important for me, 18 % body fat.  My goal before the end of July 2014: 159 lbs at less than 10 % body fat-an awesome goal!  In addition, I feel awesome physically; I also feel better about my appearance.

I want to especially take the time to thank Zach for his expertise, know-how, flexibility and, most of all, patience.  Thanks, Zach for helping me on my journey.

I also need to add that the environment here at Excel Fitness has been conducive to help me achieve my goals. The atmosphere is low-key; everyone is focused on their workouts.  People are friendly and I know many on a first-name basis.  Most importantly, the trainers are knowledgeable, friendly and approachable. I’ve worked out at many local gyms and I’ve never encountered as friendly a group of trainers as I have here at Excel Fitness; I genuinely mean this. Zach, let’s get ready to rock the summer of 2014!

Social Responsibility: Working Out Mind, Body, and Soul

Since our grand opening in 2007, Excel Fitness has received much success and loyalty from the greater Hartford community. Our dedicated team of personal trainers, massage therapists, and nutrition coach along with our committed members and clients believe it is crucial that we all do our part to give back to a community that has given us so much.

Winter Clothing Drive 2014!
Winter Clothing Drive 2014!

In October we raised over $1,000 for Making Strides against Breast Cancer. November welcomed our annual non-perishable food drive benefiting the West Hartford Food Pantry. In December we collected dozens of new, unwrapped toys for Tons of Toys, benefiting the Boys and Girls Club of Hartford. January wrapped up our seasonal charity drives with a donation of over $700 worth of warm clothing to local homeless shelters in the greater Hartford area.

ReRun Shoe Drive 2014
ReRun Shoe Drive 2014

 

 

 

Additionally, since the beginning of 2013 we have steadily collected hundreds of pairs of used shoes. We routinely send these boxes of shoes to West Africa where they are refurbished and sold at an affordable price to people who otherwise would have no shoes to wear at all. We thank all of our members and clients for their generosity and unceasing enthusiasm in making our community a better place. It is because of you that Excel Fitness is able to set such a phenomenal example of what it means to work out mind, body, and soul in a socially responsible fitness facility.

By Ilicia Balaban, C.P.T.

Victory @ Excel Fitness 3rd Annual Wine Tasting and Open House

Excel Fitness, an award winning gym and personal training studio in West Hartford, CT held their 3nd Annual Wine Tasting and Open House to kick off fundraising for Making Strides against Breast Cancer on Thursday, September 26th.

The event was a huge success! Dozens of local businesses donated over $1500 in prizes for the silent auction and raffle. Wine Cellars on rt. 4 in Farmington donated wine, beer and the time of seven different distributors. Snacks were provided by Pho 68 and A Little Something Bakery. Excel Fitness massage therapists Kelly Perkoski and David Mendez kept guests even more relaxed with luxurious chair massages. The evening culminated in two fantastic fitness presentations; instructor Kate Barrett and personal trainer Ilicia Balaban shook it up with a sizzling Zumba routine, followed by an outstanding display of strength and self-defense demonstrated by Paul Millholen and Danielle Mathura from Jitae Taekwondo.    

All in all, Team Excel Fitness raised over $1,000 for breast cancer research! We would like to humbly applaud the dedication of our members, local business supporters, staff and others in the community that came out for the fundraiser. As always it was a fun night, we look forward to the opportunity to make it even bigger and better next year!

 

Miss the wine tasting but still want to contribute to a great cause? Join us in Bushnell Park on Sunday, October 20th at 9am for the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides against Breast Cancer Hartford 2013 walk/run. Inquire today with one of our certified personal trainers for more information.