Here I sit on the 22nd of December and taking time to look back on what a difference 12 months can make. For me personally, I am mentally and physically healthier and enjoying life very much. Of course Koko FitClub is the primary reason for all of that. I look back and am truly grateful to have met and been part of helping people change their lives in a fun way while creating a new life for me and my family.
I have touched on some of the stories we have been part of here in our now two clubs. There's Helen, our breast cancer survivor who also lost 115 lbs (all prior to Koko) but did not strength train ever. She loves it and has added a bunch of strength now and is not gaining weight. That means lean muscle, higher metabolism and better overall health. There's Cris who has lost upwards of 30 lbs with the help of Weight Watchers and Koko. She is much stronger and leaner. There's Jerry who is down almost 20 and is stronger; Doreen who told me yesterday her blood came back perfect; Mark M who has lost upwards of 30 lbs while gaining strength and kept it off for several months; Lindsey who battles fibromyalgia and is generally much better since working out with us; 74 year old Jan who when she began admitted she was terribly out of shape but willing to work to change it-now weighing less, using the elliptical without assistance. It goes on and on.
These are normal people that have become empowered to improve themselves with Koko and other influences.
For them and almost all other Koko users, it will certainly be a Happy New Year!
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Two months later
It's October in Arizona and you know what that means...summer is ALMOST over. We had a few cool days last week but it is back to 100 today. Our week of fall will be upon us in about 2 more weeks.
Since my last post, to say it has been busy would be about right...most notably our second Koko FitClub has opened and we have had a fantastic reception in the McCormick Ranch area of Scottsdale. I am very pleased to be able to bring Koko to a second location and am settling in pretty well and pretty rapidly. It has been much easier to get going on a second club; the process learned during the first club opening was duplicated almost totally. Same architect, lawyer, builder, advertisers, vendors...no need to reinvent the wheel. Additionally, the anticipations of what to expect as a new business owner are already learned so the surprises have been minimal. Almost like having a second child, you don't quite realize how much free time you have with one of something versus multiples. But, now I want more.
I am having a blast working with new members in a new neighborhood. We get to see an influx of people telling us once again how great the model is, how easy it is, how it is just what they have been looking for. It really goes to show that this method of exercise is here to stay and just barely taking hold. It is very gratifying to see the plan unfold and the hard work start to pay off. Long way to go yet but breathing room is there.
We mentioned that there are just over 200 members using Koko around Phoenix. The opportunity to reach the masses is for the taking! We hope to get more and more of you in here and seeing just what we can help you achieve.
Since my last post, to say it has been busy would be about right...most notably our second Koko FitClub has opened and we have had a fantastic reception in the McCormick Ranch area of Scottsdale. I am very pleased to be able to bring Koko to a second location and am settling in pretty well and pretty rapidly. It has been much easier to get going on a second club; the process learned during the first club opening was duplicated almost totally. Same architect, lawyer, builder, advertisers, vendors...no need to reinvent the wheel. Additionally, the anticipations of what to expect as a new business owner are already learned so the surprises have been minimal. Almost like having a second child, you don't quite realize how much free time you have with one of something versus multiples. But, now I want more.
I am having a blast working with new members in a new neighborhood. We get to see an influx of people telling us once again how great the model is, how easy it is, how it is just what they have been looking for. It really goes to show that this method of exercise is here to stay and just barely taking hold. It is very gratifying to see the plan unfold and the hard work start to pay off. Long way to go yet but breathing room is there.
We mentioned that there are just over 200 members using Koko around Phoenix. The opportunity to reach the masses is for the taking! We hope to get more and more of you in here and seeing just what we can help you achieve.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Mixing member experience with business growth
Getting the word out about a new concept like Koko takes a lot of work and resources. It is a fun thing to do because everybody who joins it, enjoys it. There are so many ways to promote a business and all cost money. Whether it is advertising, (print and online), social media, word of mouth, there is a cost whether it be time or money. Of course sometimes you hit gold and other times, you fall flat. But, there is no sure thing so you need to try almost everything at least once to see.
One of our members introduced me to a small business advisory group here in Scottsdale called the Redwood Alliance. I had been to (and still attend at times) other networking groups or websites and associations that can assist in getting your concept to the right eyes and ears. But Redwood is different in a couple ways. Redwood is not just about trying to pitch other members of the group about your business. Instead it is a group that allows each member to pose a case study about challenges a small business faces. Other members of the group offer objective feedback and suggestions of how to overcome these barriers or challenges based on their experience in their business lives. I have attended two of these meetings and I have found them to be excellent. I decided that it was worth becoming a member in short order.
Yesterday, our case study was changed at the 11th hour due to unforeseen circumstances. The fill in speaker was a realtor who talked about how staying positive in these economic times is paramount to success. Now, think about this. If there is a tougher industry than realty right now, in a state like Arizona that has seen one of the worst default and foreclosure rates in the country, I would not want to see it. There is nothing but bad news for this industry everywhere you look. Yet, our speaker had the best outlook and attitude about his state of affairs. He had so many terrific take-aways around basic human relationships that we seem to forget as we can get caught up in the bad news. His attitude shows that sometimes just being attentive, upbeat and energetic are enough to keep you alive in business.
I am fortunate to feel like what he was saying is what I have been feeling and doing for several months now, even in a down economy. Clear vision of the future; Unwavering belief in your ability to deliver an excellent experience; creating value for your members; being passionate about each day...
We are lucky to be changing lives for the better. We can't help but do all the aforementioned things as owners and users of Koko. We have a village of people that are collectively making a difference in their own lives and setting great examples for their families, co-workers and friends. Keep it up Kokonuts!
One of our members introduced me to a small business advisory group here in Scottsdale called the Redwood Alliance. I had been to (and still attend at times) other networking groups or websites and associations that can assist in getting your concept to the right eyes and ears. But Redwood is different in a couple ways. Redwood is not just about trying to pitch other members of the group about your business. Instead it is a group that allows each member to pose a case study about challenges a small business faces. Other members of the group offer objective feedback and suggestions of how to overcome these barriers or challenges based on their experience in their business lives. I have attended two of these meetings and I have found them to be excellent. I decided that it was worth becoming a member in short order.
Yesterday, our case study was changed at the 11th hour due to unforeseen circumstances. The fill in speaker was a realtor who talked about how staying positive in these economic times is paramount to success. Now, think about this. If there is a tougher industry than realty right now, in a state like Arizona that has seen one of the worst default and foreclosure rates in the country, I would not want to see it. There is nothing but bad news for this industry everywhere you look. Yet, our speaker had the best outlook and attitude about his state of affairs. He had so many terrific take-aways around basic human relationships that we seem to forget as we can get caught up in the bad news. His attitude shows that sometimes just being attentive, upbeat and energetic are enough to keep you alive in business.
I am fortunate to feel like what he was saying is what I have been feeling and doing for several months now, even in a down economy. Clear vision of the future; Unwavering belief in your ability to deliver an excellent experience; creating value for your members; being passionate about each day...
We are lucky to be changing lives for the better. We can't help but do all the aforementioned things as owners and users of Koko. We have a village of people that are collectively making a difference in their own lives and setting great examples for their families, co-workers and friends. Keep it up Kokonuts!
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Getting back to a routine
I am seeing more and more people talk about getting back in shape now that school is back in session for the year. Demonstrations are up and membership is increasing. At the big box clubs, crowds are starting to re-develop as well. Just this morning, one of our members who belongs to Lifetime and Koko, went to go to her spin class, arriving 30 minutes ahead and STILL did not get a bike! Sorry, we're full.
The big box loves a member like that. Paying a handsome sum each month and not even getting to use the product she signed up for in the first place! Thankfully, she came to Koko and got a good elliptical workout in and also a strength session which she won't do at Lifetime. I don't mind that we don't have a spin bike. I don't even mind that we aren't always her first choice. What makes me happy is that she came here, got in a great workout in 45 minutes and left very satisfied. No waiting for a class; no waiting for a machine. She got personalized service and was treated like she was welcome.
There is a difference here and it is a big one.
The big box loves a member like that. Paying a handsome sum each month and not even getting to use the product she signed up for in the first place! Thankfully, she came to Koko and got a good elliptical workout in and also a strength session which she won't do at Lifetime. I don't mind that we don't have a spin bike. I don't even mind that we aren't always her first choice. What makes me happy is that she came here, got in a great workout in 45 minutes and left very satisfied. No waiting for a class; no waiting for a machine. She got personalized service and was treated like she was welcome.
There is a difference here and it is a big one.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
It only gets better
As I type on this early Saturday (when normal people are sleeping), I cannot stop thinking about what a great few days I just had. I was in Brewster, Massachusetts on Cape Cod for my first Koko Owners' Meeting that we call Koko Jam. This was the second annual meeting which I narrowly missed last year as I was not quite ready to get going.
Let me just say that the Koko experience is only going to get better. More locations are coming all over and the people that own them are terrific. I was amazed at the backgrounds and experiences these people bring to the table. For example, we have former CFO's of large organizations, physicians, entrepreneurs in their 30's with tremendous business start-up experience and other franchise system ownership. A commonality I noticed was that there was a genuine interest in wanting to help others with the best product in the market. Period.
This meeting unveiled the enhancements of the existing product and experience that are being worked on feverishly. They are far ranging and will be discussed more as they roll out. Bottom line is that those who are members will be the one's who can say 5 years ago, "remember when Koko was a virtually unknown?" It is time to get off the sideline and get going on Koko. Then you won't be one of those people who will hear, "I am sorry, we are currently at capacity but we will call you when a spot opens." That will happen and it won't be that long until it does.
On a more local note, the second Arizona location is opening TODAY, in a few hours in Tucson. Gary Durrenberger is a new friend of mine (thanks to Koko) and I wish he was closer. I can promise you that his club is going to be a fun, energetic and welcoming place for the Tucson crowd. He is one of those people you instantly connect with and I am excited to watch him succeed.
Let me just say that the Koko experience is only going to get better. More locations are coming all over and the people that own them are terrific. I was amazed at the backgrounds and experiences these people bring to the table. For example, we have former CFO's of large organizations, physicians, entrepreneurs in their 30's with tremendous business start-up experience and other franchise system ownership. A commonality I noticed was that there was a genuine interest in wanting to help others with the best product in the market. Period.
This meeting unveiled the enhancements of the existing product and experience that are being worked on feverishly. They are far ranging and will be discussed more as they roll out. Bottom line is that those who are members will be the one's who can say 5 years ago, "remember when Koko was a virtually unknown?" It is time to get off the sideline and get going on Koko. Then you won't be one of those people who will hear, "I am sorry, we are currently at capacity but we will call you when a spot opens." That will happen and it won't be that long until it does.
On a more local note, the second Arizona location is opening TODAY, in a few hours in Tucson. Gary Durrenberger is a new friend of mine (thanks to Koko) and I wish he was closer. I can promise you that his club is going to be a fun, energetic and welcoming place for the Tucson crowd. He is one of those people you instantly connect with and I am excited to watch him succeed.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Good Mojo
We have crossed the six month mark in our journey as Koko owners and things are great. We have so many positives going on with new members joining, existing members breaking strength gain barriers, another club getting set to open...we are truly very fortunate to do what we do.
Yesterday was one of those days that was one that I don't think I will forget. Nothing unusual really; it just seemed that every person that came in had nice things to say and each was overly positive. I didn't hear anything new from anyone either. Just more Kokonuts in the making I guess!
One member told me to have anyone call her if a skeptical prospect wanted a testimonial. Another told me that I am good as the "front man" of the club. A new member told me how he wanted to make sure to budget for Koko going forward for his family of four. Yet another told me she was contacted out of the blue from the corporate office to "tell her Koko story." This was unbeknownst to me and I was taken back at the recounting of her discussion with the Home Office. Now obviously it is the Koko experience that is what is making all of these people happy and coming back for more. It is just a great feeling knowing that we are providing the atmosphere for mental and physical health.
It is amazing what changes can happen in one year. This time last year was one of the darkest points in my adult life. But now, those days are a distant memory and I cannot see them coming back. Thank you members.
Yesterday was one of those days that was one that I don't think I will forget. Nothing unusual really; it just seemed that every person that came in had nice things to say and each was overly positive. I didn't hear anything new from anyone either. Just more Kokonuts in the making I guess!
One member told me to have anyone call her if a skeptical prospect wanted a testimonial. Another told me that I am good as the "front man" of the club. A new member told me how he wanted to make sure to budget for Koko going forward for his family of four. Yet another told me she was contacted out of the blue from the corporate office to "tell her Koko story." This was unbeknownst to me and I was taken back at the recounting of her discussion with the Home Office. Now obviously it is the Koko experience that is what is making all of these people happy and coming back for more. It is just a great feeling knowing that we are providing the atmosphere for mental and physical health.
It is amazing what changes can happen in one year. This time last year was one of the darkest points in my adult life. But now, those days are a distant memory and I cannot see them coming back. Thank you members.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Working ont the nutrition piece
Here I am, Mid-July, lots going on. We signed our lease for the second location on Friday and are just waiting to get it back. Should start construction very soon and get going. We are very excited to bring a second club to Scottsdale so we can share the successes we are seeing with even more people!
I am also working on some of my own "construction" if you will. Suzanne and the kids are over in California for a couple of weeks with extended family and that leaves me a bachelor until Friday. Although I am very ready to see them all come back and get our routine back to normal, it does provide me with some time to try some things and one of those is improved nutrition. I have not had In and Out for over two weeks since they left!
I was inspired a few months back to try some supplements by Brian Hoffer. Brian is the former Mens Swim Coach at the University of Missouri. He told me some of the results his team got after he found them on some of the products and we talked more. I have been very skeptical of supplements over the years as I know they do not have to go through the scrutiny of pharmaceuticals and can pretty much make claims as to their results and effectiveness. Besides, I had toured a manufacturing facility of a local vendor about 10 years ago and was not impressed with their quality control.
But with Brian's very soft sell and just hearing him talk about the results he and others had seen, I thought I should try. So in early April, I bought a few products to try for myself. Since I own a healthclub and get asked all the time "what should I take", I had nothing to lose. I took Brian's recommendation of some amino acids and some workout aid and protein powder. When I took the products, I felt better lifting higher loads and recovered quicker between sets. I gave it some time and really liked the way things were going. My strength was continuing to increase and I could sustain more in each workout.
A few weeks ago, I decided I wanted to do more and try additional products. So, I went all in. I bought a menu of products from creatine to arginine to oxygen transport products. Now mind you, when doing Ironman and long runs, I had faithfully used similar products for endurance and absolutely depended on them to get through tough and extended efforts. So, I had a baseline for expectation in stamina improvement, "after workout feel" and gastrointestinal passage. I had tried several energy products and there is a lot of difference. But for muscle and workout improvement, I was in a bit of a new area.
My shipment arrived on Saturday and I felt like a kid at Christmas. I was motivated to go workout and put some of these things to use. I consulted my brother-in-law Jeff who is a current competitive weight lifter and ran by some of my purchases. He gave me pros and cons in his experience but he had no direct experience with the Advocare brand I was associating myself with.
Sunday morning came and I had everything planned. And it does take some forethought. You cannot just pop a pill and go lift weight or go run or bike or swim. A couple things needed to be taken 60 minutes prior to workout, some 30 and some during. It took planning and patience but I was able to work the plan. Let me tell you, wow!
Two of the products I took were to "open up metabolic pathways and increase circulation" and it was my first time. I stacked those on top of the creatine and amino acids and when it came time to drive to the club, I felt like I could lift a car. I definitely needed to get started!
Bottom line, I had two great workouts and a very intense cardio session immediately following. Test one: during workout performance....A+. Felt great, strong, quick recovery between sets.
Got home and took the protein shake. Felt no jitters but my energy level was being sustained and I was ready to tackle tree trimming and other yard work. I can say with no reservation, I was extremely impressed with the post workout feel that never had a steep drop during the day. "Post workout feel"...A+ as well.
I ate normally throughout the day and drank a lot of water as I was in the sun and working hard. I never had any GI distress either. You don't realize this is a consideration until it hits unexpectedly. Thankfully that was not an issue either. I was thrilled to have had great guided workouts at Koko and had the nutrition piece help my body do the things my mind wanted me to do.
Feels great to have that energy and overall positive feeling at 41. Can't wait for my next workout!
I am also working on some of my own "construction" if you will. Suzanne and the kids are over in California for a couple of weeks with extended family and that leaves me a bachelor until Friday. Although I am very ready to see them all come back and get our routine back to normal, it does provide me with some time to try some things and one of those is improved nutrition. I have not had In and Out for over two weeks since they left!
I was inspired a few months back to try some supplements by Brian Hoffer. Brian is the former Mens Swim Coach at the University of Missouri. He told me some of the results his team got after he found them on some of the products and we talked more. I have been very skeptical of supplements over the years as I know they do not have to go through the scrutiny of pharmaceuticals and can pretty much make claims as to their results and effectiveness. Besides, I had toured a manufacturing facility of a local vendor about 10 years ago and was not impressed with their quality control.
But with Brian's very soft sell and just hearing him talk about the results he and others had seen, I thought I should try. So in early April, I bought a few products to try for myself. Since I own a healthclub and get asked all the time "what should I take", I had nothing to lose. I took Brian's recommendation of some amino acids and some workout aid and protein powder. When I took the products, I felt better lifting higher loads and recovered quicker between sets. I gave it some time and really liked the way things were going. My strength was continuing to increase and I could sustain more in each workout.
A few weeks ago, I decided I wanted to do more and try additional products. So, I went all in. I bought a menu of products from creatine to arginine to oxygen transport products. Now mind you, when doing Ironman and long runs, I had faithfully used similar products for endurance and absolutely depended on them to get through tough and extended efforts. So, I had a baseline for expectation in stamina improvement, "after workout feel" and gastrointestinal passage. I had tried several energy products and there is a lot of difference. But for muscle and workout improvement, I was in a bit of a new area.
My shipment arrived on Saturday and I felt like a kid at Christmas. I was motivated to go workout and put some of these things to use. I consulted my brother-in-law Jeff who is a current competitive weight lifter and ran by some of my purchases. He gave me pros and cons in his experience but he had no direct experience with the Advocare brand I was associating myself with.
Sunday morning came and I had everything planned. And it does take some forethought. You cannot just pop a pill and go lift weight or go run or bike or swim. A couple things needed to be taken 60 minutes prior to workout, some 30 and some during. It took planning and patience but I was able to work the plan. Let me tell you, wow!
Two of the products I took were to "open up metabolic pathways and increase circulation" and it was my first time. I stacked those on top of the creatine and amino acids and when it came time to drive to the club, I felt like I could lift a car. I definitely needed to get started!
Bottom line, I had two great workouts and a very intense cardio session immediately following. Test one: during workout performance....A+. Felt great, strong, quick recovery between sets.
Got home and took the protein shake. Felt no jitters but my energy level was being sustained and I was ready to tackle tree trimming and other yard work. I can say with no reservation, I was extremely impressed with the post workout feel that never had a steep drop during the day. "Post workout feel"...A+ as well.
I ate normally throughout the day and drank a lot of water as I was in the sun and working hard. I never had any GI distress either. You don't realize this is a consideration until it hits unexpectedly. Thankfully that was not an issue either. I was thrilled to have had great guided workouts at Koko and had the nutrition piece help my body do the things my mind wanted me to do.
Feels great to have that energy and overall positive feeling at 41. Can't wait for my next workout!
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Summer already?
We are so lucky to have actually had a spring this year and face only 4 months of 100 degree heat. Rarely can you say May was a cool month in Phoenix but I am not complaining. Now that school is out, nights are long and the weather is cool so sitting outside without sweating profusely is truly a treat. But, it is coming. We know each day it stays in the 90's is just a delay of the inevitable 110's just around the corner.
Now is a great time to look back and see if your goals you set at the beginning of the year are being met. If so, congratulations! You are in the overwhelming minority. If not, what are you going to do about it? As it has been said before, a goal is merely a dream unless you write it down and act. So, are you a dreamer or a goal-seeker?
It is not too late to end the year with that fitness goal still being accomplished! Start now by doing something. Anything sustainable and enjoyable to get you in better shape.
Now is a great time to look back and see if your goals you set at the beginning of the year are being met. If so, congratulations! You are in the overwhelming minority. If not, what are you going to do about it? As it has been said before, a goal is merely a dream unless you write it down and act. So, are you a dreamer or a goal-seeker?
It is not too late to end the year with that fitness goal still being accomplished! Start now by doing something. Anything sustainable and enjoyable to get you in better shape.
Friday, May 6, 2011
Acting like Kids at Koko
I guess you could say it is pathetic. I however like to say it is healthy competitive juice. You can decide for yourself.
Last fall, some friends of mine asked me to fill in on their Kickball team at Casey at the Bat. Of course I obliged and found it to be a great time and hoped to be asked to stay on full time. Thankfully I was and got to play a handful of games. I quickly learned that stretching pre-game was not a prudent idea as I pullled my quad and was on the DL for most activities. Not smart at all when I was running 3 times a week and needed the exercise.
After the second time I pulled it a couple weeks later...slow learner...I connected the pre-game stretching to the pull. I played part time in the winter league but opening the club and closing the club each night made juggling these fun evening events a stressful task.
Now that things are in somewhat autopilot at the club, I decided to create a club kickball team made up of members and staff. I wasn't sure what kind of response I would get as so many of us are so busy with kids' activities and general life stuff. Still, I decided to put up a sign in the club and see what kind of discussion it created. Thankfully, we had a good number of casually interested members that said they would give it a try and see what transpired from there. I figured it would create community and I was confident that once a person tried it, they would want to continue playing when their schedule permitted. Not surprisingly, I was right.
The league is made up of 7 teams that is supposed to be one division of Over 40 and one Under 40. However, we have been combined into one league where all teams play each other. On the surface, it appears that the youngins would be a shoe in to beat the Over 40 crews. I am happy to say (and this is where the possible pathetic comes in) that so far this has proven not to be the case. The youthful exuberance has been a non-issue as our squad of 40-something Koko-ers is more than holding its own. We won last night 10-7 against some statuesque young men and women.
I can say with confidence that at least part of the reason we are doing well is that we are a pretty fit bunch. Nothing crazy but the "functional daily strength" that I referred to in the last blog post is certainly coming into play here. I am pretty sure that some members of our team would have declined the offer to play had it not been for the confidence and strength and stamina gain they have gotten from being members here. At least I think so!
I for one am like a kid when Thursdays come. It is fun to be able to play for a short time and not hobble around and say I long for the days when I "used to" be able to run and play and just enjoy the simple things in life. And not have to ice a pulled quad too!
Last fall, some friends of mine asked me to fill in on their Kickball team at Casey at the Bat. Of course I obliged and found it to be a great time and hoped to be asked to stay on full time. Thankfully I was and got to play a handful of games. I quickly learned that stretching pre-game was not a prudent idea as I pullled my quad and was on the DL for most activities. Not smart at all when I was running 3 times a week and needed the exercise.
After the second time I pulled it a couple weeks later...slow learner...I connected the pre-game stretching to the pull. I played part time in the winter league but opening the club and closing the club each night made juggling these fun evening events a stressful task.
Now that things are in somewhat autopilot at the club, I decided to create a club kickball team made up of members and staff. I wasn't sure what kind of response I would get as so many of us are so busy with kids' activities and general life stuff. Still, I decided to put up a sign in the club and see what kind of discussion it created. Thankfully, we had a good number of casually interested members that said they would give it a try and see what transpired from there. I figured it would create community and I was confident that once a person tried it, they would want to continue playing when their schedule permitted. Not surprisingly, I was right.
The league is made up of 7 teams that is supposed to be one division of Over 40 and one Under 40. However, we have been combined into one league where all teams play each other. On the surface, it appears that the youngins would be a shoe in to beat the Over 40 crews. I am happy to say (and this is where the possible pathetic comes in) that so far this has proven not to be the case. The youthful exuberance has been a non-issue as our squad of 40-something Koko-ers is more than holding its own. We won last night 10-7 against some statuesque young men and women.
I can say with confidence that at least part of the reason we are doing well is that we are a pretty fit bunch. Nothing crazy but the "functional daily strength" that I referred to in the last blog post is certainly coming into play here. I am pretty sure that some members of our team would have declined the offer to play had it not been for the confidence and strength and stamina gain they have gotten from being members here. At least I think so!
I for one am like a kid when Thursdays come. It is fun to be able to play for a short time and not hobble around and say I long for the days when I "used to" be able to run and play and just enjoy the simple things in life. And not have to ice a pulled quad too!
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Functional strength for fun things in life
My genes never allowed me to gain muscle easily. Instead of being "big boned", I have pretty small bones with some padding. Problem is, that padding has been traditionally more fat than muscle. Of course, I have been fit and pretty strong in periods of my life and have lifted weights fairly consistently since late high school. I never got great results so I usually got bored after a few months and went back to something else to keep busy.
When we get a little older, (notice little) we still try to go full speed at things we used to but now we have more consequences for those actions. Whether it be the annual Turkey Bowl on Thanksgiving or just shagging balls in the outfield at a little league practice, stopping and starting hurts the next morning. Why?
My skinny legs have put up with quite a lot of pounding over the years but that never translated into an ability to gain any muscle mass. I am not really interested in looking like Earl Campbell from the waist down mind you, but just a little increase in mass makes a big difference in just about everything I do.
I am like so many men that hate working out my legs because the vanity benefit is negligible. However, now that I have my workouts planned and legs are included, the benefits are tremendous. So many little things I took for granted are now much more simple to perform. When you don't know how weak your legs are, you assume getting up from the couch is a straining event. It should not be in case you had a doubt.
My kids love the fact that I have the ability to jump on our trampoline for more than just a few jumps. Their rubber legs are matched by my 41 year old stilts and I often last as long or longer than they do as of course I am more fun to double bounce them. I have no choice sometimes but to continue to be the entertainer. I am not sure that in December I was able to do what I am doing now and I am glad for that.
All because of Koko, I have more functional strength. For life.
When we get a little older, (notice little) we still try to go full speed at things we used to but now we have more consequences for those actions. Whether it be the annual Turkey Bowl on Thanksgiving or just shagging balls in the outfield at a little league practice, stopping and starting hurts the next morning. Why?
My skinny legs have put up with quite a lot of pounding over the years but that never translated into an ability to gain any muscle mass. I am not really interested in looking like Earl Campbell from the waist down mind you, but just a little increase in mass makes a big difference in just about everything I do.
I am like so many men that hate working out my legs because the vanity benefit is negligible. However, now that I have my workouts planned and legs are included, the benefits are tremendous. So many little things I took for granted are now much more simple to perform. When you don't know how weak your legs are, you assume getting up from the couch is a straining event. It should not be in case you had a doubt.
My kids love the fact that I have the ability to jump on our trampoline for more than just a few jumps. Their rubber legs are matched by my 41 year old stilts and I often last as long or longer than they do as of course I am more fun to double bounce them. I have no choice sometimes but to continue to be the entertainer. I am not sure that in December I was able to do what I am doing now and I am glad for that.
All because of Koko, I have more functional strength. For life.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Free from excuses and distractions...for now
Easter is over. Now if I can resist the chocolates and jelly beans for the next few days, I will be home free. Well, at least for a little while. I mean, there are no more holidays to throw me off my plan, right? If it were that easy.
We are very lucky here to have wonderful April weather, long days and plenty of reasons to celebrate life. Seems like a rough life doesn't it? Children playing, birds chirping, plants and flowers in bloom. But with that comes temptation to drink more beer, have another hamburger from the grill...whatever. My point is, no matter what, there is a reason to overeat or drink. But we should do this. Life is a great thing to celebrate.
For me and I am sure many others, weekends are usually a time to plan fun things and that means food and drink. Easter weekend is of course no different. It is a battle between enjoying it all and showing a little discipline. For me, just a small adjustment can pay huge dividends. For example, we went grocery shopping yesterday and planned to have steak, salad, corn and quinoa. Quinoa? Two months ago this final menu item would never been served or taken seriously. Now I am not saying I need some award for eating salad, corn, beef and quinoa but it is a positive step. Recall that my dream job would be a food critic, eating everything and everywhere. Just a wonderful fantasy. So, eating quinoa is a healthy addition and a baby step into adding healthy foods into a space where a bread or rice would have been. Yay me.
My motto is "if you play, you pay." My pay lately and going forward is my Koko routine. I just passed the million lb. mark yesterday. I guess that makes me a Koko millionaire. Makes me feel like celebrating.
We are very lucky here to have wonderful April weather, long days and plenty of reasons to celebrate life. Seems like a rough life doesn't it? Children playing, birds chirping, plants and flowers in bloom. But with that comes temptation to drink more beer, have another hamburger from the grill...whatever. My point is, no matter what, there is a reason to overeat or drink. But we should do this. Life is a great thing to celebrate.
For me and I am sure many others, weekends are usually a time to plan fun things and that means food and drink. Easter weekend is of course no different. It is a battle between enjoying it all and showing a little discipline. For me, just a small adjustment can pay huge dividends. For example, we went grocery shopping yesterday and planned to have steak, salad, corn and quinoa. Quinoa? Two months ago this final menu item would never been served or taken seriously. Now I am not saying I need some award for eating salad, corn, beef and quinoa but it is a positive step. Recall that my dream job would be a food critic, eating everything and everywhere. Just a wonderful fantasy. So, eating quinoa is a healthy addition and a baby step into adding healthy foods into a space where a bread or rice would have been. Yay me.
My motto is "if you play, you pay." My pay lately and going forward is my Koko routine. I just passed the million lb. mark yesterday. I guess that makes me a Koko millionaire. Makes me feel like celebrating.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
what can happen to you?
It has been just under 3 months as a co-owner of my business and what a great time it has been. As I have mentioned on numerous occasions, I am learning so much. I am witness to so many positive changes going on in people's lives, especially in gaining strength and losing weight.
It is no secret that I am most proud of my wife Suzanne. Just three months ago, she had not run for more than 20 seconds at a time while chasing kids during a game of tag around the back yard or through the house. She had attended Lifetime Fitness a handful of times over the last 3 years. She had no exercise habit to speak of whatsoever. Yet her physical appearance was very good and she was in good health as she has always had a good metabolism.
Fast forward three months. Suzanne is now in the best shape of her adult life. She has adopted a 6 day a week cardio and strength training program that has changed so much about her both physically, mentally and spiritually. She usually runs about 6-7 miles per week (or more) and is lifting over 30,000 lbs per week. Her physique is toned and her sleeping patterns are more normal. Energy levels are like they never have been. She even ate quinoa twice this week. To say she has transformed is a bit of an understatement. I must say I am both astonished and proud of her. Best part is that I cannot see it reverting back to the old ways.
What about me? Here is what I have done in the last 3 months:
Total weight lifted: 939,127 lbs
Strength sessions: 73
Average session duration: 28 mins
Calories Burned: 22,037
Percentage strength increase: 52%
Koko is no gimmick. It works. It is sustainable. It is easy to succeed.
It is no secret that I am most proud of my wife Suzanne. Just three months ago, she had not run for more than 20 seconds at a time while chasing kids during a game of tag around the back yard or through the house. She had attended Lifetime Fitness a handful of times over the last 3 years. She had no exercise habit to speak of whatsoever. Yet her physical appearance was very good and she was in good health as she has always had a good metabolism.
Fast forward three months. Suzanne is now in the best shape of her adult life. She has adopted a 6 day a week cardio and strength training program that has changed so much about her both physically, mentally and spiritually. She usually runs about 6-7 miles per week (or more) and is lifting over 30,000 lbs per week. Her physique is toned and her sleeping patterns are more normal. Energy levels are like they never have been. She even ate quinoa twice this week. To say she has transformed is a bit of an understatement. I must say I am both astonished and proud of her. Best part is that I cannot see it reverting back to the old ways.
What about me? Here is what I have done in the last 3 months:
Total weight lifted: 939,127 lbs
Strength sessions: 73
Average session duration: 28 mins
Calories Burned: 22,037
Percentage strength increase: 52%
Koko is no gimmick. It works. It is sustainable. It is easy to succeed.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Bring on April!
We have so much going on this month at Koko FitClub of Scottsdale! Effective today, our April 30 day weight loss challenge is underway. The participants are coming in for their initial weigh-in and we are ready to shed those unwanted pounds!
We have so many more things happening as well...we are participating in a sporting goods drive for foster children put on by the North Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce. As you may have seen in the photos, Chris Middy generously got us off to a great start with several donations! Thanks from all of us Middy!
We have our masseuse Don Bearham coming in next week and ongoing for free chair massages; nutritional counseling by Deb Cyrel; weight loss lectures by Dr. Chris Serafini; Advocare available from the Hoffers...all in addition to the great benefit from Koko workouts! Plus, we have our member referral contest in full swing! So much to offer as a value to our members.
Check back here as we recap the weigh loss stats each week. Good luck to all of our participants! May you all lose!
We have so many more things happening as well...we are participating in a sporting goods drive for foster children put on by the North Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce. As you may have seen in the photos, Chris Middy generously got us off to a great start with several donations! Thanks from all of us Middy!
We have our masseuse Don Bearham coming in next week and ongoing for free chair massages; nutritional counseling by Deb Cyrel; weight loss lectures by Dr. Chris Serafini; Advocare available from the Hoffers...all in addition to the great benefit from Koko workouts! Plus, we have our member referral contest in full swing! So much to offer as a value to our members.
Check back here as we recap the weigh loss stats each week. Good luck to all of our participants! May you all lose!
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Milestones being met
There are so many emotions and feelings when opening up a new business. Sleepless nights, worry, excitement, wonder, projections, what-ifs, joy, happiness, weariness.....so many more. Most of all thankfully it has been fun yet very unpredictable. You plan, you project. Then reality hits and all of the conjecture and predictions are simply fun to look at in retrospect to see how good you were at predicting the future.
Our venture is now entering its third month and I must say we did a pretty good job with the dart throw that is "setting projections." Advertising?...missed the mark. Wow does that eat up your budget! But, the old addage, "you've got to spend money to make money" is very true at least in our case. Not really a surprise.
If you would have asked me to project how many "media hits" we would have had to this point, I would have missed that one too. 3 times on TV locally, 2 print articles...would not have said 5. So, you miss by underestimating potential as well. We are very lucky to have had that exposure.
Making the numbers work is the trickiest part as there are so many variables. Luckily with some strong due diligence, we are close to the bullseye on that part too. Just this week we signed up our 50th member and the trend is very positive! We are absolutely thrilled to see that virtually all of our members are enthusiastic and true believers in our system. It is wonderful hearing the numerous comments like, "I like working out again" or "I am going away for a few days and want to take Koko with me!" It makes what we are doing every day so worthwhile when members are excited to see huge strength gains, to tell their friends, to hear their doctors praise them, etc. It was a projected outcome from the start but to hear it from people you have developed a connection with over the weeks since starting the club, it makes it real. We are blessed to to be able help people feel better and look better! Thanks to our members for letting us be part of their lives!
Our venture is now entering its third month and I must say we did a pretty good job with the dart throw that is "setting projections." Advertising?...missed the mark. Wow does that eat up your budget! But, the old addage, "you've got to spend money to make money" is very true at least in our case. Not really a surprise.
If you would have asked me to project how many "media hits" we would have had to this point, I would have missed that one too. 3 times on TV locally, 2 print articles...would not have said 5. So, you miss by underestimating potential as well. We are very lucky to have had that exposure.
Making the numbers work is the trickiest part as there are so many variables. Luckily with some strong due diligence, we are close to the bullseye on that part too. Just this week we signed up our 50th member and the trend is very positive! We are absolutely thrilled to see that virtually all of our members are enthusiastic and true believers in our system. It is wonderful hearing the numerous comments like, "I like working out again" or "I am going away for a few days and want to take Koko with me!" It makes what we are doing every day so worthwhile when members are excited to see huge strength gains, to tell their friends, to hear their doctors praise them, etc. It was a projected outcome from the start but to hear it from people you have developed a connection with over the weeks since starting the club, it makes it real. We are blessed to to be able help people feel better and look better! Thanks to our members for letting us be part of their lives!
Friday, March 18, 2011
Fun stuff
Yesterday I heard a third hand comment that I thought was a great plug for the Koko system. Katie G. was in Koko gear at afterschool pickup yesterday and a friend of hers walked up and asked if she worked there "too". Katie responded that she did and then the magic happened. Apparently the inquirer told Katie she had been hearing all about Koko and said something along the lines of, "I need to get over there and check it out because Suzanne West looks amazing!" Granted she is talking about my wife and I absolutely agree. However, it is true. Suzanne had not worked out AT ALL since we were in college and really she didn't need it for her appearance. But she realized there was so much more to it than for appearance's sake alone. In addition to enhancing her already fit appearance, she is much more fit in reality, more toned, about 29% stronger and feels so much better both mentally and physically. She now talks like someone who realizes that as we age, we need to take care of ourselves. For others to notice the outward changes is a bonus.
Now she's not alone. Now with over 50 users of the system to date, and most of those faithful and dedicated, I am seeing and watching so many others improve their fitness and incorporating it into their routine. Alan and I truly looked forward to this outcome when we started this journey and to watch it unfold is so terrific. Keep up the great work KokoNuts!
Now she's not alone. Now with over 50 users of the system to date, and most of those faithful and dedicated, I am seeing and watching so many others improve their fitness and incorporating it into their routine. Alan and I truly looked forward to this outcome when we started this journey and to watch it unfold is so terrific. Keep up the great work KokoNuts!
Friday, March 11, 2011
Testimonials from our members
Yesterday there were a flurry of strength tests among our members. We saw gains of 15%, 9% and 64% gain to date! Imagine that...you start working out and you are 64% stronger than you were when you started...SIX WEEKS AGO! This is such a great thing to be part of!
On top of that, I received a phone call from one our members that was so excited she could hardly contain herself. She had just visited her doctor and was told her BMI was reduced 5 points and that her body composition was great, meaning she should not worry any more about losing fat but just work on maintining lean muscle. Again, this member has been with us for just six weeks. Although she surely watched her diet along with her Koko regimen, she is convinced that if it were not for Koko, it would not have been possible.
Maybe this could be you? In April, we will have a fun contest for our members where everbody can participate. There is no added cost to participate. Details are still being determined but we will have our own weight loss challenge just in time for the summer season. Join us!
Details to follow soon!
On top of that, I received a phone call from one our members that was so excited she could hardly contain herself. She had just visited her doctor and was told her BMI was reduced 5 points and that her body composition was great, meaning she should not worry any more about losing fat but just work on maintining lean muscle. Again, this member has been with us for just six weeks. Although she surely watched her diet along with her Koko regimen, she is convinced that if it were not for Koko, it would not have been possible.
Maybe this could be you? In April, we will have a fun contest for our members where everbody can participate. There is no added cost to participate. Details are still being determined but we will have our own weight loss challenge just in time for the summer season. Join us!
Details to follow soon!
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
More media coverage
After taking a few days off the blog, it is good to be back. After a rollercoaster week last week, things are getting back to normal again. We were so lucky to have so many people show up for the grand opening celebration and it was great to see everyone!
This morning we had the privilege of hosting ABC 15 again but this time for a spot on Smart Family, hosted by Daphne Munro. Not sure when or even if it will make it to the air but I am confident it will! After the 3rd time in front of a camera, I am starting to feel at ease with my presentation skills. We will let the station be the judge of whether that confidence is merited or not!
Lastly, tomorrow night will be our second open house of the grand opening week. We will have a ribbon cutting with the North Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce between 5 and 7PM so feel free to stop by if you have not seen us yet!
This morning we had the privilege of hosting ABC 15 again but this time for a spot on Smart Family, hosted by Daphne Munro. Not sure when or even if it will make it to the air but I am confident it will! After the 3rd time in front of a camera, I am starting to feel at ease with my presentation skills. We will let the station be the judge of whether that confidence is merited or not!
Lastly, tomorrow night will be our second open house of the grand opening week. We will have a ribbon cutting with the North Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce between 5 and 7PM so feel free to stop by if you have not seen us yet!
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Grand Opening week...
We hope it is going to be quite a party. Thursday night, (actually starting in the morning with a ribbon cutting with the North Phoenix Chamber of Commerce at 8am) starting at 5PM going until roughly 8PM, we will have an open house for people of all ages, shapes and sizes. We will have food provided by Shari Haley (cannot wait, her food is terrific), chair massages provided free from Platinum Wellness, nutritional counseling from Deb Cyrel, raffles, giveaways, balloons and tattoos for the kids and of course FREE DEMOS of the Koko Smartraining system!
We are expecting more than 100 people so come join your neighbors and see what we can do for you! I can promise it will not waste your time, that's for certain.
We are expecting more than 100 people so come join your neighbors and see what we can do for you! I can promise it will not waste your time, that's for certain.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Picking up steam
Thanks to those who have been following the blog and reporting back to me. I am enjoying sharing the information about us and the system.
I am lucky to have a great partner in Alan but he is only one of the partners in our operation. My wife Suzanne has provided a lot of feedback (sometimes unsolicited as most married men can attest to) that has given me a great perspective. The member experience at the club is ideally driven by the equipment and the atmosphere created but the personal touch adds so much more. Suzanne has jumped in and embraced what has been a stark change for our family. She has added a much appreciated aura just by making small adjustments and suggestions. One of those is creating and posting our "Koko Leaderboard".
Not unique to our location but with our own touches, we highlight our members performance and experience at the club. We (Suzanne) look(s) forward every Monday to posting new point totals, weight lifted, miles completed, strength sessions completed, pace scores, total points and more for each week. It is a way to compare apples to apples with our members. This leaderboard gives everyone in the club a chance to be a leader in one or more categories. We are seeing one member lead in weight lifted, another in sessions, another in average points per workout, yet another in pace score. It is fun to compete friendly amongst each other and it benefits all of us because it makes us healthier physically while we do it. Just another way Koko is unique!
I am lucky to have a great partner in Alan but he is only one of the partners in our operation. My wife Suzanne has provided a lot of feedback (sometimes unsolicited as most married men can attest to) that has given me a great perspective. The member experience at the club is ideally driven by the equipment and the atmosphere created but the personal touch adds so much more. Suzanne has jumped in and embraced what has been a stark change for our family. She has added a much appreciated aura just by making small adjustments and suggestions. One of those is creating and posting our "Koko Leaderboard".
Not unique to our location but with our own touches, we highlight our members performance and experience at the club. We (Suzanne) look(s) forward every Monday to posting new point totals, weight lifted, miles completed, strength sessions completed, pace scores, total points and more for each week. It is a way to compare apples to apples with our members. This leaderboard gives everyone in the club a chance to be a leader in one or more categories. We are seeing one member lead in weight lifted, another in sessions, another in average points per workout, yet another in pace score. It is fun to compete friendly amongst each other and it benefits all of us because it makes us healthier physically while we do it. Just another way Koko is unique!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Feeling strong
One of the many differentiating factors that Koko brings to the table is the strength test. We give each member an initial strength test to set up his or her program and goal. Several sessions later, the system programs a follow up strength test and compares it to the first one. Ideally, this test shows a gain in strength.
As we have been open for a month, many of our members are hitting their second and in some cases third strength test. According to our Chief Fitness Officer Michael Wood, seeing gains of 7% when using a personal trainer is considered very positive. Being that Michael is a former personal trainer and is one of the main developers for the programs at Koko, I would say this is gospel.
How are the Scottsdale members doing? Well, you be the judge. After one month, we have members with the following gains since inception ONE MONTH AGO.
49%
38%
29%
18%
15%
15%
10%
-3%
This is the whole lot. None omitted, none embellished. That equates to a 21% collective gain in strength! These are people like you and me. Average strength, normally healthy when they started. There were no veal in this set so everyone had some initial strength coming in. The anomaly is the -3%. I asked the member what happened and she admitted that she did not try as hard as she could have. She didn't realize she was supposed to. She admitted that she could have exerted more energy and will next time out.
I think these numbers speak for themselves. Once you get a taste of this system, I cannot imagine working out any other way.
As we have been open for a month, many of our members are hitting their second and in some cases third strength test. According to our Chief Fitness Officer Michael Wood, seeing gains of 7% when using a personal trainer is considered very positive. Being that Michael is a former personal trainer and is one of the main developers for the programs at Koko, I would say this is gospel.
How are the Scottsdale members doing? Well, you be the judge. After one month, we have members with the following gains since inception ONE MONTH AGO.
49%
38%
29%
18%
15%
15%
10%
-3%
This is the whole lot. None omitted, none embellished. That equates to a 21% collective gain in strength! These are people like you and me. Average strength, normally healthy when they started. There were no veal in this set so everyone had some initial strength coming in. The anomaly is the -3%. I asked the member what happened and she admitted that she did not try as hard as she could have. She didn't realize she was supposed to. She admitted that she could have exerted more energy and will next time out.
I think these numbers speak for themselves. Once you get a taste of this system, I cannot imagine working out any other way.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Guest appearance on the blog from Alan Cohen
Alan decided he wanted to put in his two cents so here are his comments...
Reacting to Dave's last blog, I felt I needed to let everyone know why I got involved with our Koko adventure.
As you know, I worked with Dave for several years. Therefore, when he approached me about Koko it was an easy decision for me to join forces with him. Since I was retired, I made up my mind that if I ever re entered the work force it would have to be with something I would enjoy, had a passion for and enabled me to help others in the process. Koko was the perfect fit.
As a result of our initial trip to Koko's headquarters, we found that the quality and passion of the people we met and the values of the company were exactly what we were looking for.
In all my years of weight training, I can honestly say I have never come across any piece of equipment that gave me a better workout then the Koko smart trainer. It is the best thirty minute investment anyone can make.
As we approach our grand opening on March the third, I look forward to meeting many of you and sharing what Koko, Dave and I have to offer with all of you
Reacting to Dave's last blog, I felt I needed to let everyone know why I got involved with our Koko adventure.
As you know, I worked with Dave for several years. Therefore, when he approached me about Koko it was an easy decision for me to join forces with him. Since I was retired, I made up my mind that if I ever re entered the work force it would have to be with something I would enjoy, had a passion for and enabled me to help others in the process. Koko was the perfect fit.
As a result of our initial trip to Koko's headquarters, we found that the quality and passion of the people we met and the values of the company were exactly what we were looking for.
In all my years of weight training, I can honestly say I have never come across any piece of equipment that gave me a better workout then the Koko smart trainer. It is the best thirty minute investment anyone can make.
As we approach our grand opening on March the third, I look forward to meeting many of you and sharing what Koko, Dave and I have to offer with all of you
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Our Partnership
Back in 2001, I joined a drug company called Organon and was a sales manager. After a few weeks, the guy who hired me was run out on a rail for general incompetence. Soon after, our management team was assigned a new leader and his reputation was good but no one really knew what to expect. We were a bunch of immature sales managers and speculation was something that we were really good at. When we finally got to meet our new leader, I knew I was going to get along with him and I was eager for some coaching and development. That new leader was Alan Cohen. Fast forward 10 years and now we are partners. I guess I met my objectives in 2001 in that he decided to join me at Koko. Either that or he is an easy mark!
Alan is highly accomplished in sales and marketing with a career spanning over 40 years. He has lead national and regional sales teams and has a track record that is impeccable. When I decided I wanted to explore the possibility of opening a Koko franchise, he was one of the first people I sent my business plan to. I obviously wanted his opinion, feedback and validation. A second but equally important objective was to entice him to join me since he was retired at the time and had a wealth of weight lifting experience as well. If I had to reflect on what I learned most while working for Alan at Organon it was the importance of having vision and being passionate. I knew that when I presented Koko and the plan, he would see my growth, my vision and my passion. I knew he and I shared the passion of exercise as a necessary part of a healthy lifestyle. From there, the hook was set and we have never looked back. We WILL help people and we WILL be passionate and enthused about it!
Koko is a wonderful avenue for us to share that passion with you and will help us live the lifestyle we want as well. We hope you agree.
Alan is highly accomplished in sales and marketing with a career spanning over 40 years. He has lead national and regional sales teams and has a track record that is impeccable. When I decided I wanted to explore the possibility of opening a Koko franchise, he was one of the first people I sent my business plan to. I obviously wanted his opinion, feedback and validation. A second but equally important objective was to entice him to join me since he was retired at the time and had a wealth of weight lifting experience as well. If I had to reflect on what I learned most while working for Alan at Organon it was the importance of having vision and being passionate. I knew that when I presented Koko and the plan, he would see my growth, my vision and my passion. I knew he and I shared the passion of exercise as a necessary part of a healthy lifestyle. From there, the hook was set and we have never looked back. We WILL help people and we WILL be passionate and enthused about it!
Koko is a wonderful avenue for us to share that passion with you and will help us live the lifestyle we want as well. We hope you agree.
Friday, February 18, 2011
I think this is going to stick
As I wrote previously, my son Matt is the computer genius thanks to a great curriculum at his school. He was proud enough of his old man to tell his teacher this morning that I am now a blogger. In her blog I even got some publicity for starting this! That was pretty cool.
If you could have seen me as a kid and young man, writing would not have been an area you would have pegged me to be interested in. To go a step further, anything studious would not have been associated with me. Then, one day back in 2005 I decided I would write a semi-memoir. I guess riding 4 hours alone on a bike in the middle of nowhere causes such irrational thought. Nonetheless, I kept to it and started typing. And typing. And typing. Next thing you know, I had a manuscript of why the heck someone becomes an Ironman triathlete. Now, I never said it was great reading but still I decided to get it printed and "sell" some copies. Let's just say I can buy a cup of coffee each quarter with my royalties!
Writing about being active is a great match for me. I can string a few words together and share my passion about why being healthy is a smart move for anyone you care about and yourself. As we go forward, I will introduce you to my business partner Alan and how we got here.
If you could have seen me as a kid and young man, writing would not have been an area you would have pegged me to be interested in. To go a step further, anything studious would not have been associated with me. Then, one day back in 2005 I decided I would write a semi-memoir. I guess riding 4 hours alone on a bike in the middle of nowhere causes such irrational thought. Nonetheless, I kept to it and started typing. And typing. And typing. Next thing you know, I had a manuscript of why the heck someone becomes an Ironman triathlete. Now, I never said it was great reading but still I decided to get it printed and "sell" some copies. Let's just say I can buy a cup of coffee each quarter with my royalties!
Writing about being active is a great match for me. I can string a few words together and share my passion about why being healthy is a smart move for anyone you care about and yourself. As we go forward, I will introduce you to my business partner Alan and how we got here.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Me? A blogger? I guess...
I have heard over and over again how important it is to be in the minds of your cutomers and friends. Thanks to my technologically advanced 7th grader, I am now on the cutting edge of blogging! Matty Mo helped this stubborn old man through the template design, picking of colors and fonts and all you see. Thanks kid. Now go clean your room.
Now, onward.
So. Koko FitClub. Why did I get myself involved with this venture? Well, after a lengthy career in pharmaceuticals, I decided to press the reset button. I made great friendships and had a lot of fun in my time in the drug business but over time, the love subsided. Market forces and several job changes over the last five years had a large part to play as well as you might expect. But mostly, I decided I owed it to my Mom Del Jeanne who had passed away last April to use the resources she left behind to create something I was passionate about.
I am a 6 time marathoner and one time finisher of the Ironman triathlon. It must have stemmed from the fact that I was a chubby pre-pubescent kid that had a poor self-image that made me feel like I needed to prove I could be better. So, I began running; and running. Then it snowballed and endurance exercise became one of the centers of my life along with my marriage and my kids. I have never been one to eat great but exercise has always been easy. Really my dream job would be a Food Critic but the career path is not bright. Needless to say, I need to exercise. I always tell people that I could be very heavy with almost no effort. But, exercise is there to save the day and keep the enemy from taking the line.
I truly believe that exercise is the magic pill. Depression, anxiety, obesity, you name it. Exercise can help! It can do so much for anyone. But, it is painful and lacks enjoyment for so many of us. Plus, who has the time? Well, most of us don't. Besides, most of us don't have the genetics to feel totally comfortable in a gym. We're round. We're soft. We're past being "beautiful". We think we aren't attractive in spandex (and we're right). So it makes us feel intimidated going where all the beautiful people are. Most people would agree that they need to exercise more. But it is work! Not many love to go and explore the gym and test new machines or free weights to see what works. People like being told what to do, how to do it, how much and how often. "Just tell me what to do, I'll do it", people say. They say it over and over. They are willing and able but don't have the knowledge. Enter Koko. It works.
Koko thinks so you don't have to. All you have to do is commit 30 minutes and be willing to do the work. It is the next big thing in fitness. Come see it and I think you will agree.
Now, onward.
So. Koko FitClub. Why did I get myself involved with this venture? Well, after a lengthy career in pharmaceuticals, I decided to press the reset button. I made great friendships and had a lot of fun in my time in the drug business but over time, the love subsided. Market forces and several job changes over the last five years had a large part to play as well as you might expect. But mostly, I decided I owed it to my Mom Del Jeanne who had passed away last April to use the resources she left behind to create something I was passionate about.
I am a 6 time marathoner and one time finisher of the Ironman triathlon. It must have stemmed from the fact that I was a chubby pre-pubescent kid that had a poor self-image that made me feel like I needed to prove I could be better. So, I began running; and running. Then it snowballed and endurance exercise became one of the centers of my life along with my marriage and my kids. I have never been one to eat great but exercise has always been easy. Really my dream job would be a Food Critic but the career path is not bright. Needless to say, I need to exercise. I always tell people that I could be very heavy with almost no effort. But, exercise is there to save the day and keep the enemy from taking the line.
I truly believe that exercise is the magic pill. Depression, anxiety, obesity, you name it. Exercise can help! It can do so much for anyone. But, it is painful and lacks enjoyment for so many of us. Plus, who has the time? Well, most of us don't. Besides, most of us don't have the genetics to feel totally comfortable in a gym. We're round. We're soft. We're past being "beautiful". We think we aren't attractive in spandex (and we're right). So it makes us feel intimidated going where all the beautiful people are. Most people would agree that they need to exercise more. But it is work! Not many love to go and explore the gym and test new machines or free weights to see what works. People like being told what to do, how to do it, how much and how often. "Just tell me what to do, I'll do it", people say. They say it over and over. They are willing and able but don't have the knowledge. Enter Koko. It works.
Koko thinks so you don't have to. All you have to do is commit 30 minutes and be willing to do the work. It is the next big thing in fitness. Come see it and I think you will agree.
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