I was caught up in a high stress career. I put my health on the back burner. I knew I needed to curb that trend, but I couldn't bear the thought of going back to a "traditional" gym. I decided to take to the internet and research the various fitness programs offered around town. I was looking for anything to get me excited about fitness again. I reached out to boxing gyms, to martial arts gyms, to Cross Fit gyms, etc. I ultimately settled on Toraino's Innovative Strength and Conditioning classes. There are so many things to like about this program that I can't cover them all but I will do my best to cover some of the things I think are most important.
The Coach (Toraino) - It doesn't get any better. One look at the guy and you know he lives his product (ISC). I initially thought someone at his level would be bored and disengaged training newcomers like me. I was wrong. Toraino oversees almost all of the classes at ISC. He is always in a good mood, very patient, and easily approachable. If you have a question, just ask. If he sees that your form is off, he will work with you until you get it right. If he sees you're lacking effort, he'll push you to reach your potential. He is very thorough in his instruction and explanations. I have asked him numerous questions from the program to nutrition and he has always taken the time to answer my questions.
The Workouts - You will almost never get as good of a workout in a traditional gym. I do things on a daily basis I have never seen before. You will push sleds, pull sleds, climb ropes, do pushups with chains draped over your back, jump boxes, flip tires, wield a sledge hammer, swing a kettle bell, toss a medicine ball, pull a sand bag, etc. The workouts are always different. In my opinion, this is one of the best things about the program. There is so much variety, you never get bored. In my 5 months at the gym I have never done the same workout twice.
The Classes - The classes make the program fun. They range in size from 4-12 people on average. You will begin to see the same people every class, which will make you accountable to show up and workout. Your peers will push you to stay motivated. Everyone struggles through the workouts so you will never feel intimidated.
The Cost - You do pay a premium to attend ISC classes over a traditional gym. BUT, when you really think of all you get, it is quite a bargain. You get a brand new workout laid out for you every day. Plus, you get personal training every day you workout. Granted, you are in a class as opposed to one on one instruction, but the classes are capped to keep the groups small enough for personal attention. You will never lack instruction or attention in the group classes. Toraino watches over the classes like a hawk (believe me).
If you are serious about getting in shape, you can't do better that ISC. You will have a great Coach who will get you the results you want, if you are willing to put in the work. The training is tough, but it is a fun program that will keep you engaged and excited about your fitness. read more