Club News

TEST Stars

John Warren

“My original goal in November 2001 was to just generally get in shape for the winter skiing season.  What began as a short-term objective evolved into much more than that.  I soon found that getting ready for skiing was not a brief task it merely uncovered a very major long term issue – my general fitness.  Over the years when my children were young, it seemed that my fitness took a distant back seat.  After my wife, Alison, began working out at TEST, I thought it would be a good opportunity for me to get in shape for skiing.  However, the years of relative low physical activity had taken its toll, and I was REALLY out of shape.

Over the past couple of years, I have seen dramatic improvement in my stamina, physical strength, weight, and oh yes, my skiing fitness!  What I have come to learn is that physical fitness is not a one-time thing but instead it’s a life-style change.  We in this country have been remiss in not paying enough attention to our health.  That includes eating habits, as well as physical fitness.  I’ve found that being a member of TEST has provided me the encouragement and perseverance to make my physical fitness a priority!”

In 2008- Well that last comment was three years ago.  Today fitness has continued as a major part of my life and I’ve added a new element which is healthy eating.  I have lost over thirty-five pounds in the past six months and I have not felt this healthy in years.  With the help of three personal training sessions a week, and a low fat diet, I have achieved my fitness and health goals.  Today I ski and roller-blade (long distance) like never before.

Ilene Patasnik and Edie Feinstein

Joining TEST in July, 2007was one of the best decisions we have ever made. After accidentally stumbling onto the property, our curiosity led us into the front door.  We met with Ilze and took a tour of the club, only with the goal of “looking” or potentially enrolling our 19year old daughter, an avid trainee.  After assessing the facility, it was clear that the entire family and close friends could benefit from this diversified offerings.  After prodding from Ilze, most surprising, was our courage to work-out with a personal trainer.  After being “physically” stagnant for 25 years as “career women,” placing family and client demands ahead of our own personal well-being, simply became the norm.  Candidly, working out with a personal trainer for 60 minutes was a terrifying prospect.  However, Ilze promised that we would survive... Enter—Eric Dorsey.  After one session with Eric, we were hooked!  Eric challenged us to do weights and physical activities that were difficult, but now have become a pleasant routine for us.  Fear has turned to excitement, as watching our muscles develop and our bodies tone has been very rewarding.  As a result, we added a second work-out per week… Enter—Hillarie Scanelli.  Working out with Hillarie not only bolstered out strength building, but also complemented it with rigorous stretching and flexibility exercises need to counteract the dreaded eventualities of “middle age.” If this wasn’t enough, enter...Eddie Frayne.  When time permits, additional work-outs are schedule with Eddie.  Eddie puts you to the challenge of doing a 40 minute circuit to build endurance and achieve cardiovascular benefits.  The bottom line is this…if you can learn anything from a pair of middle aged, career women, don’t be afraid or embarrassed to challenge and literally “stretch” yourself.  There are many wonderful people here at TEST to help you, not judge you!  The risks are certainly worth the reward!  The only downside---once you start, it’s hard to stop working out with these incredible trainers!

Alison Warren

Alison joined TEST in 2000 one day on a whim because her health insurance policy rates were determined by her physical fitness and metabolic parameters (blood pressure, cholesterol, etc).  She had never worked out in her life, and after driving two hours each way to work for five years, had gained over 20 pounds.  She was determined to take the weight off, get toned, and improve her long term health.  Her goal was to lose weight, fit into a smaller dress size, and get rid of the flab on her arms and thighs.

Alison explained to TEST that she did not like to sweat, experience muscle pain, use machines or lift weights.  The TEST folks laughed and then encouraged her to try a personal trainer program to customize her work.  Now after training at TEST for eight years at least four times per week, she lifts weights, can run seven trail miles, and even looks forward to the endorphin rush from an intense work out.  Oh, and she lost 25 pounds, is down two dress sizes, and her cholesterol and blood pressure are much better!  TEST has changed Alison’s health, fitness and outlook on life.  So much, in fact, that she retired early.  Alison works out and plays golf as much as possible.

Denis O’Hara

Over the past year and a half there are two lessons in life that I have learned and lived.  First, enjoy what you have today because it may be gone tomorrow and the second, everything in life temporary.  In late December 2006, I was involved in a horrific auto accident.  There were many things my doctors and therapists did not think I would be able to do but with determination and support that I was able to move forward.  The physical therapist, trainers, class instructors, and members at TEST have been great wand they have helped me get through this life changing and temporary event.  I still have a long way to go and I sincerely thank them all!

Ralph Acquavia

A Martinsville resident with a family of two daughters (Alexaand Isabella) and his wife Ioana.  A chef by profession and now owner/operator of Delicious Heights.  Ralph an active athlete thru his younger days in high school let himself go through the course of the years. After the birth of his two kids, and gaining plenty of pregnancy weight, Ralph found himself at 238 pounds with a cholesterol level well over 300.  Motivated by TEST Sports Clubs and staff (who are always ready to assist all there clients with all aspect of training and weight loss), he started on his workout regiment and began to change his life and body.  No weighing in at 185 his cholesterol levels are normal without any medication and the feeling of life has grabbed him again.

Rosemary Hopping

Last October my son bought me a membership to TEST Sports Clubs. At the time I was overweight, my back was hurting, and my knees were bothering me so bad that I was limping. The moment I walked into TEST Sports Clubs, the trainers and employees made me feel very comfortable even though I have never been to a gym before. I started working out upstairs on the treadmills, ellipticals, and all the other machines. I would go to work from 9 to 5, change at work and head to the gym. I started a sensible eating program, and the weight began coming off. The more weight I lost, the more self confident I became. Some weeks I would not lose any weight, but the trainers kept supporting me telling me I could do it. They were all so nice giving me tips on how to use the machines. After awhile I started going to the group aerobic classes and fell in love with them! The instructors are very supportive and always giving me positive feedback. Another great bonus is I got my family to join too! My sister and my cousins now go to the classes together. It's now a family thing. We actually have a great deal of fun while we are slimming and trimming down and at the same time I have made a lot of great friends. Without the kind and supportive TEAM at TEST, I wouldn't have lost the weight I have. Work out machines can be found at any gym, but its the support from the TEST Sports Clubs and Pro Rehab Staff that makes them stand out above all the rest.

Janet Ozzard

I started going to a gym about 20 years ago because my father had ankylosing spondylitis, a disease that affects the spine and large joints. I read that the best defense was exercise and weight training. Until I found TEST and met Ilze, I had never considered personal training.

I’ve had an interesting life: I married young and had six children (four daughters, two sons). My first husband, their father, died suddenly of a stroke when he was 42. I took over his business, called the Legislative Index of NJ and for the next 23 years, attended every Legislative session in Trenton. I remarried two years later to a man I’d met in the State House!

When Bill, my second husband died, I was in my seventies, and decided it was time to hit the road. First I took my dream trip to the Galapagos in 2003. Then I went paragliding over Interlaken, Switzerland in 2004. I zip-lined in a rainforest in Costa Rica in 2005, and crossed the Atlantic on a three-masted sailing ship in 2006. There were other trips like Egypt and Mexico, plus plenty of visits to my far-flung children. Most of the big trips were with National Geographic and involved hiking, kayaking, and ecological studies. I’ve always been active, but as I told one of my daughters recently, I don’t think I’ve ever been in such good shape—even when I was chasing after six little children! My exercise program has made my core stronger, my posture less old-lady, and improved my life in dozens of other ways. Thanks, Ilze!

Ray Hone

The reason I started training was that I was diagnosed with a Heart Murmur with a dilated left ventricle (in my terms a leaky valve). The diagnosis was that I had a limited time before having to have the valve replaced, a good training plan would help extend the time for when I would have to have the operation. I have been working out for 8 years which has kept my weight down, and strengthened the heart muscles. I still have not had the valve replacement. A couple of years ago a friend challenged me to a Bike Ride which I accepted. I then found out that the "ride" was the Lake Tahoe Century, I hadn't ridden a bike in over 20 years. Thanks to a 4mth training program at TEST, I participated in the ride and completed it in under 8hrs. I have kept riding since. Part of the program for my Heart Murmur was to have stringent tests every 3 - 6mths. Since working with Carl, I am now able to go 9mths before taking Stress Tests, and according to my Specialist I am constantly moving the date out for when I will need the operation. Carl’s training program has enabled me to keep my weight down and the heart muscle strong. Now I need to work on my Golf game!!!!!!

Sal Conte

Two years ago my world changed when I found myself lying in a hospital bed - my intestines had burst and I was being prepped for surgery. Although I was not in the gym everyday prior, I usually found myself working out two to three times a week. After three months and second abdominal surgery, doctors advised me to give up my workouts. After a year and a half, my body and mind were both telling me that it was the right time to get back into the gym. I had heard about TEST Sports Club from some friends, set up a consultation and knew it was the right time and place to get started. The crew at TEST facilitated my process of rehabilitation into a well managed training routine and put me back on track.

Vernon Smith

Vernon joined TEST in January 2007. He was underweight and in poor physical condition due to an illness and several surgeries. Since joining, he has been working out twice a week with Kim, and once or twice a week on his own. In the past year he has achieved significant progress, gaining 25 lbs on muscle and substantially improving his posture and core strength. Vernon’s success is a testament of his consistency and work ethic. A progressive training regimen has dramatically increased his strength, balance, and conditioning.

Michele Smith

Michele joined at the same time to support Vernon. She was a lifelong exercise avoider. Her goals were to lose 30 lbs and experience what she had heard described as an “exercise high.” She works out twice a week with Dawn, once a week with Iwona, and 2 or 3 times a week on her own. Dawn and Iwona’s coaching, encouragement, and patience have had great results. She’s lost 40 lbs and developed a real passion for exercising.

New Additions to the TEST Team

David Hooper

Dave is a graduate of the University of the West of England, graduating his BSc in Sports Conditioning and Coaching with first class honors, the highest class achievable from UK universities. Dave is also a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association as well as a certified Sports Performance Coach by USA Weightlifting. Dave worked as a trainer in the UK for 4 years before meeting his future wife, Stephanie while working for the summer as a sports coach in New Jersey. Two years later, once his degree had been completed Dave moved to New Jersey full time and he and Stephanie married in the summer of 2007. His ambition is to have a successful career in strength and conditioning, working with world class athletes for a major franchise, hopefully in the NFL or MLB.

Dave Strunk

A 2004 graduate From Montclair State University, David has been a life long competitor. He grew up playing on select traveling soccer programs across South Eastern Pennsylvania, learning how commitment and dedication kept you on the winning edge. Success carried over into high school, where David was a part of championship programs in soccer, basketball, and baseball. A family tradition propelled David into military service where his drive and commitment demanded recognition upon completion from training. Entering college David took on the challenge of learning Lacrosse. With hard work he became a starter at midfield his sophomore year. As a senior, he helped lead his team to their best record in 15 years, to go with its first ECAC championship in ten years. He hopes as a trainer he can pass along his Drive, Discipline and Dedication, to show that any goal is only a commitment away.

Welcome Back to the TEST Team!

Tad Kornegay

A Fordham University Graduate that has excelled in his football career. Tad is a two-time All-Patriot League, Consensus First-team All-American and finalist for the Buchanan Award as the I-AA Defensive Player of the year. For the last three years, he has been playing in the Canadian Football League. His first two years were with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and last year Tad was part of a trade that made him a member of 2007 Grey Cup Champions Saskatchewan Roughriders. Now as a free agent, Tad is seeking for an opportunity to play in the NFL.

Anthony Gargiulo

Keep Your Friends and Family Healthy too!

We care about your heart . . .

In honor of National Heart Month, we invite all TEST members to share the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. Each member should receive (in the mail) a complimentary personal training certificate and a one week free membership to give as a gift to a friend of family member.

We could all use a little more motivation from a friend and someone to share your achievements with. Call us today to take advantage of this offer.

New and Improved Aerobic Schedule

If you haven't picked up our latest aerobic schedule, you have been missing out! We have just recently updated our Group Exercise and have added classes later in the evening and weekends to fit our members’ suggestions.

Some new classes include Dance and more (unique combination of dance, yoga, Pilates and total body strength), Jump-Punch & Crunch (variety of step and floor aerobics working with abdominal and Pilates exercises), and more.

Try a different class to experience a great workout while meeting new friends! Our classes are open to ALL members. Try one out for yourself!

Want a 6-pack?! – Current Specials

Want a six-pack? We have just what you’re looking for!

TEST 6-PACK
5 Personal Training Sessions AND 1 Health and Wellness Chiropractic Evaluation

Top 10 Benefits of Personal Training:

1. Increase Motivation
2. Save Time
3. Increase Safety
4. Increase Adherence
5. Increase Education
6. Maximize the Facility
7. Improve Results
8. Reassessment of Goals
9. Immediate Feedback
10. Someone to Celebrate Your Successes With

Don't miss out on our Personal Training Special to go one on one with our certified personal trainers. Get motivated to a healthier start today!

*Contact a Membership Advisor to inquire about this spring special!

Holisticare Massages

Whether seeking relief for a medical condition, searching for a method to help deal with the stress of daily living or wanting to maintain good health, more and more people are turning to massage.

The benefits of massage are extensive. Massage can be used to help strengthen the immune system and facilitates an environment where the body can heal itself. It can work in conjunction with traditional and complementary therapies, and is in itself an enjoyable and healthy activity.

TEST Massage works with all clients to establish better health and wellness. We offer many different styles and types of massage to achieve desired results for the most important person of all - YOU!

Please ask our Receptionist for a full brochure to get all the information regarding pricing and benefits.

Membership Discount:
All members at TEST will receive their first massage at a 30% discount.

Massage Health and Wellness www.holisticaremassage.com

Pro Rehab

Pro Rehab at TEST Sports Clubs is a brand new, dynamic rehabilitation center offering you the very best in physical therapy and chiropractic care. Pro Rehab is staffed with professionals with advanced training in the evaluation and treatment of spinal, musculoskeletal, neurological, and work-related injuries. Their purpose is to help you recover from injury while achieving your goals of returning to the
field, to the office, or to your daily activities in the safest and most efficient way possible.

Pro Rehab is dedicated to offering each patient the very best in manual “hands on” treatment integrated with a functional training program to eliminate pain, improve ROM and strength, and maximize the client’s functional abilities for a full return to their daily life. We treat clients of all ages from a broad spectrum of activity levels.
Each client will receive a comprehensive evaluation to not only assess the current injury, but also to assess contributing factors and compensations throughout the body to prevent injury in the future. An individually designed treatment program is developed for everyone and it is updated with each treatment session to make sure that optimal results are achieved!

Email Dr. Sofo for more information:
drsofo@optonline.net