Function and Fitness

Health is vital to your well-​being. I found this out when I turned 50, after years of neglecting/​being ignorant of it. I signed up with Equinox and hired a personal trainer who worked on me for a couple years. What I learned from personal training was eye opening. I had not known that nutrition was so important, and I discovered weight lifting and the right way to exercise. When personal training stopped, I was on my own and I started to go to the gym on a regular basis still, but I saw that I was not going as often as I wished.
No matter how good a gym is, it is only as good as how many times you use it. In January of this year, after strong nudging from my wife, we switched and joined Function and Fitness, which is only two minutes from my work. I was glad to see the familiar TRX there because when I was at Equinox, about half of my personal training used TRX.
The semi-​private personal training program at Function and Fitness is excellent. At my age, I need more flexibility and unhindered movement than bulking up, so my training program initially focused on strengthening my core in addition to strengthening my body in general, with a lot of attention to technique, and just a lot of attention in general.
The group exercise events are very fun as well. It is like junior high school gym-​class on steroids. You move from one exercise station to another in an organized and timed manner at a frenzied pace with a partner, each exercise requiring proper technique. You can push yourself as hard or as little as you want. I always look forward to this. It’s a party.
I have to compare this group exercise event with Equinox’s because it is the only other gym I have been a member of. I do not mean to pick on Equinox. F&F group exercise is not crowded. Class size is controlled. You know the people. All are nice. Equinox class size is not controlled. People are unfamiliar and you get no attention. Most of the time, you are just flailing around.
Couple things to note about F&F. It is not an open gym. You can only go when there are classes or training. F&F is open mostly during morning hours so far and some evenings. I think afternoon has been recently added. Christine is trying to expand to more hours. The gym is very spacious and clean. No showers, but wipe towel is available. Clean restroom. The physical environment is outstanding.
So, I think that in this day and age with people holding mostly desk jobs, eating mostly processed food without knowing any better and getting fat and weak and easily fatigued with back pain so forth and so on — like me, you have to do something different. I chose to join a gym, and Function and Fitness has been a wonderful addition to my life.
I must also put in a word for Kirk (Muscle Recovery) who is the physical therapist guru on site. He has abundant knowledge of the science of movement and musculature. He has helped me considerably.

I have been working out here for only about 3 weeks. I am very happy with the coaches, the owner and the other clients.
Workouts are never boring, friendly atmosphere, hard working, knowledgeable trainers. Highly recommend!

I started working out here in August.
I grew up playing sports, I like hiking and trying to stay relatively active. I did Bar Method once in a while, but knew that my energy level and physique could be better. I was slim, but not very fit. I was another slim asian girl, but lacking muscles.
I felt so lethargic and had been wanting to do strength training and build muscles without getting bulky. I wanted to have an exercise regimen, but didn’t know where to start. My family members had all had personal training at Equinox except for me. Prior to this, I didn’t want to waltz into a gym and start using machines without any proper training. I didn’t want to get injured, didn’t know where to start. Also, the trainers at other gyms were really buff guys who wouldn’t really understand my goals.
But, I wanted a change, get fit and stronger. A family friend had joined Function and Fitness for a month over the summer. He seemed really «with it» since joining and had rave reviews of the gym and the people there. He also started to look leaner, which was a good sign.
Within like a week of working out consistently, I had a spike in stamina, energy level, clarity in thought and a more positive outlook on life. Also, my eating became cleaner.
I can’t believe how much stronger I have become. Prior to working out, I was deathly afraid of getting bulky. I didn’t want to bulk up and not be able to fit into my clothes. Within a few months, my body has never looked better. It’s lean and toned. I have muscles without looking bulky. In the beginning, my muscles did swell up a bit and depending on the work out, my muscles do get larger in certain areas in the beginning of my program. But, if I eat clean, I have a toned, lean physique. I feel tight, fit and healthy. I wear the same clothes as before, but I look better in them. My pants, which were already size 0 – 2 prior to working out look better on me. My butt is lifted and my legs, arms, abs are toned. My friends and family have all commented on my more fit looking physique, which I hadn’t noticed. The most surprising moment was when our family went hiking, I beat everyone to the top and had energy to spare. I was not easily winded. In the past, I would struggle and need frequent breaks. But, this time, I was really strong.
Christine spends so much time making a tailor-​made work out program for each semi-​private client, which changes every 6 weeks. Prior to starting, we discussed my goals and she asked about any injuries I may have.
My parents joined a month ago after seeing a change in my energy level and physique. They love it. My dad has intermittent back muscle spasms and Christine has made tailor made programs for him to strengthen his core. He has not had any back muscle spasms since then and has become much stronger as a result. Mind you, he’s had personal training at Equinox.
Regarding concerns about cost, I’d say the value is much higher than the actual price. At places like Equinox, it’s $ 100/​hour for a one-​on-​one trainer. Here, for a tailor made semi private program along with as many TRX classes, it’s worth a lot more than the place asks for.
Regarding concerns about form and injuries, there are trainers on site during the work out. They observe, guide and monitor your work outs. If you have any questions, call them over and they are extremely helpful, knowledgable and friendly. They will find ways to modify a work out if something does not feel right due to an injury. I actually like that I am learning how to work out on my own with some monitoring so that eventually, if I need to work out independently at a gym without trainers, I’ll be comfortable with using machines and working out on my own. Christine and the coaches attend educational seminars, trainings and continuing education classes often, so that is a plus for the gym.
Regarding the 12 hour window to cancel. True, there have been times when I wish that I had a less than 12 hour window to cancel a class. However, I think that having this setting holds me accountable to working out. If I could cancel anytime, I’m sure I would have missed a few work outs because I was too tired or lazy. I wouldn’t have seen the results I’m seeing today. The system makes me take my work out times seriously.
One thing to note is that diet and nutrition is important.
I highly recommend this place. Best thing I’ve done for my health.

I have been helped so much by the trainers at FUNction. I have always lacked physical strength and they have carefully worked with me to build my strength and confidence in working out. The personalized workouts — designed just for you and your needs — are key! Christine and her trainers make it fun! not stressful! Something i never thought i would say!

First and foremost a Big Thank You to Christine for starting Function and Fitness (FAF) in our neighborhood. I joined FAF 10 months ago. It’s the best decision I have made!
Since that time, my strength and stamina have increased substantially. After a 20 year hiatus, I played tennis with a friend who is very good at it and plays several times a week. I was able to keep up comfortably, because I had the strength and stamina. Without working out at FAF there is NO WAY I would have been able to keep up with the pace!
The gym is clean, well organized and professionally managed. It’s a joy to go to this gym!
I book my classes on my mobile phone app and can change them if I need to modify my schedule. I get a reminder the day before my class, which reinforces my commitment for the next day!
The trainers– Ara. Terry, Todd and Becky are extremely knowledgeable and available. They are there every step of the way, inspiring you and giving tips to improve your form. The personal attention we all receive is amazing!
Christine is very, very knowledgeable. She is a student of this profession. She attends seminars and workshops frequently to increase her knowledge and to bring cutting-​edge information to us. Her trainers do the same!
Because the gym is well managed, in one hour I am able to get an intense workout with no wasted time. I visit the gym 5 days a week and it’s a blast. I never knew one day I would be saying this!
Function and fitness is managed in a way so that classes can be kept small and well attended, and the routine organized in a way to maintain everyone’s safety. One Unilocal comment called this «too many rules»…not so. When there is some structure, the gym runs more efficiently and safely. If one wants to do things in a haphazard way, there are plenty of other places one can go to waste their time!
Once again, I want to thank Christine and her trainers. You guys are amazing!

It’s been a year since I joined the gym and despite a two month break because of a pre-​scheduled surgery, I have made great progress in my strength, stamina, and mobility! Kudos to the team at FUNction and FITness! Ara, you are amazing, your energy is infectious. Terry, you are my son I could have had… you always look out for me, look forward to my Thursday night workouts… Thank you Christine for your help and support and your everlasting smile.
Don’t pay attention to people who claim they have been injured! You have to take responsibility for doing things right! Ask questions, stay informed, and above all don’t blame other people for your mistakes…
This place is awesome! The trainers are great! Knowledgable, helpful and friendly. Love coming here for great workouts and personal attention. This place is spotless!
Great location and plenty of parking.
LOVE this place…

Such a great place! Very smart and tailored workouts if you go with the semi-​private lessons, however, the group classes are amazing. Many of the people there are incredibly supportive of each other and it’s an all around positive place!
The trainers are all fantastic and very much care about helping each person achieve their fitness goals… even mine, which is to be Mr. Universe.

I love FUNction & FITness! For the first time in my life, I have been able to stick to a constistent and effective strength training program. I have been a member for over a year, and I’m hooked. It’s such a good feeling to know that even though I’m getting older, I’m getting stronger… which makes me feel younger. Semi-​private training is the perfect solution for anyone who wants personalized training and instruction, but doesn’t want to spend a fortune doing it. Signing up for sessions ahead of time is convenient, and really motivates you to get your butt to the gym. Every trainer is professional, knowledgeable, and kind. There are also many Team Training classes where you can work out with other clients in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

Be careful of their semi private training! During the first six weeks of carefully following the exercise plan they created for me, I was instructed to use a heavy kettle bell in the wrong form and injured my back so badly I couldn’t walk or move for a week, or exercise for eight weeks. I went back to their gym after I healed, but never felt confident I was being trained in a manner that insured I would remain injury free. I decided to return to my former trainer with whom I have worked for 10 years without a single problem. Christine suspended my membership during the time I was out and lowered my last three months payments by $ 100, but I still paid $ 150 a month for three months without ever going back to the gym.

If you want to have FUN while getting FIT this is the place for you. I used to dread going to the gym. Now I look forward to working out. Christine is awesome! She cares about how every single person is doing and progressing. All of the trainers are exceptional. Semi private sessions change every six weeks and the group classes are always different. You will never be in a rut here! I highly recommend FUNction and FITness!

I haven’t been a FUNction & FITness member very long, but the change to my life has already been dramatic.
Just a few short months ago, I woke up each morning with a back so stiff and sore that I had to sit down to pull my pants up. I felt like I had lost the ability to keep up with my very active family, and I didn’t feel particularly healthy or good about myself. One day I just didn’t want to feel that way anymore, so I impulsively jumped online and enrolled for a year long obligation. I thought that even if I didn’t enjoy it, the commitment was made and I would be «forced» to go to the gym.
From my first class I knew that it was the best decision I had made for myself in years. The instructors were motivational and corrected my clumsy attempts with kindness and good humor. The environment was warm and welcoming and I found that I was shocked at how much I loved it and was almost never really ready to go home at the end of my class.
It didn’t take long for my body to adjust, loosen up, and start getting strong. I found myself near tears the first time I realized that I didn’t hurt and hadn’t been hurting for several days. Now I find myself doing exercises I couldn’t even imagine doing before, and my body is adjusting and meeting the challenge in a way that I didn’t realize it could anymore. I cannot wait to see what I can do in the months and years to come!

I am 49 and have tried dozens of gyms and workout routines and nothing has ever become a pleasant habit. .. until now! Function and Fitness is awesome. The workout routines are designed around building strength for the way you move in real life. They are engaging, challenging in a great way and very effective. Most importantly, the owner and the trainers (all of them) ROCK! You know from the moment you walk in that they care about you and want you to succeed. I now look forward to every session!

A 3-​month membership in November 2015 was $ 300 per month (I think it went up in Jan. ’16). You have to sign a contract for 3-​months or 12-​months. I signed up for 3-​months since I did not want to commit for a year membership. I’m glad I did because as much as I learned to like exercise, the rules ended up being too much.
First, you have to sign up for every class. Next, if you have to cancel, you have to do so within 12 hours of that session. Otherwise, your credit card will be charged a $ 10 fee. No Shows will result in a $ 10 NO SHOW hit on your credit card as well. If you are more than 15 minutes late, they say not to go to class; but if you don’t you will be charged. So what do you do, drive all the way out there — not be admitted to class just to avoid being charged $ 10. In one day, I received 3 different emails to all of these reminders.
I’m a full time working mom and have enough rules to live by than to have a gym aggressively want to charge on top of a heavy membership fee. Turns out it wasn’t for me, especially since it was suppose to be fun. They took they FUNction out of fitness for me.

This gym offers lots of fun and versatility. The trainers are professional and engaging. The time always goes by quickly and the workouts are safe and effective. I recommend Function and Fitness!

Started here 3 weeks ago and I am hooked. The instructors are great (love Ara) and the owner, Christine, is so easy to work with. It is hard to drag myself out of bed for the 5:30 am class, but every time I get to class, it is well worth it! Since you move from one station to another the time flies by. I enjoy working out, but it is the perfect class for those that don’t enjoy it as well, as you don’t even feel like you are working out. The other people in class are great and when they work hard, it motivates me to work harder.
I am enjoying it so much, I am signing up my 13-​year-​old daughter for the new teen class. It is the perfect class for any age! Big thanks to my sister-​in-​law for introducing me to FF!

I love the atmosphere, the camaraderie and the workouts. The trainers are your mentors who want you to achieve your best results. It is a goal oriented workout, designed for you! State of the art equipment, brand new facility and an awesome community. Where you can get fit, stay strong and belong. Come and join us!

I love this gym. The workouts are interesting, the equipment is top notch. Christine, Ashley, Ara, Becky and Ian are fantastic instructors who feel like friends, not just coaches. They are also locals and it is awesome to support a hometown business, except that sometimes you might get busted by your instructor at the local ice cream shop! It is a great community of people of all fitness levels and the staff has always got something going on to make it feel fresh and interesting. If you are looking for a friendly place to get or stay in shape, this is it.

I love this place, Christine and all the instructors! I’m currently enrolled in the TRX boot camp and it’s a great addition to my running regimen. Each week we focus on a different part of the body — arms, legs, core, etc. I’m feeling great and so glad to be back taking classes!!!

I did my first class here not long ago and it was so much fun!!! The workouts are very core focused using props of all kinds from ropes to kettle bells to slide pushes to suspension straps. There is a strong community vibe that is very positive and makes you feel part of right away My heart rate was up on the pike to planks in the suspension straps!!! Unlike many other cross fit gyms, the workouts are bio mechanically sound and safe while being physically challenging. As someone who works in rehab, I don’t say that lightly. Christine Clark, the owner, has developed something very special here and there is a body comp machine in house! Going up sign up for the Memorial Day melt down to look and feel my best for summer

I have been a member at several gyms, from studio to corporate. This is the best workout facility I have ever used. I’m ecstatic that there is finally an establishment in the area that provides one on one, group, yoga, and even nutrition classes! Christine truly cares that her clients are happy and receiving a workout that they are proud of! They give you a lot of attention here. Imagine working out with your friends, who just happen to be more trained, physically educated and motivating than you, that is what function and fitness is! It’s not only a great workout, but I feel comfortable instantly and enjoy the trainers immensely! Tip: Try the strength training class!