TESTimonials
"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!!!!!! "
Ray Hone
"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. "
Sal Conte
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.
Vernon 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.
Michele Smith
On a recent visit back to my hometown in NJ, I had the opportunity to spend an afternoon at TEST Sports Clubs working with Kevin Dunn. As a professional athlete who has trained directly under Mark Verstegen at Athletes' Performance, I have learned extensively about all of the elements that go into a rock solid training program from power and elasticity to nutrition and regeneration. Integrating them seamlessly is key, so that each element works together to produce the highest level of performance. Most importantly, I appreciate both very close attention to detail and a coaches ability to communicate details clearly so that athletes understand well enough to apply it not only in the training room, but out in competition as well. I was impressed with Kevin's ability in both of these areas. TEST has definitely committed to being leaders in their field. It is apparent that they are preparing tirelessly for the opening of their new state-of-the-art facility later this year. I look forward to hearing about great things down the road from these guys! Thanks for the workout Kevin!! "
Jessi Stendland
"Having known TEST co-owner Brian Martin for a number of years, I am very excited to be a part of TEST Sports Clubs. TEST not only does a great job training athletes and clients, but TEST finds a way to make it fun so that each person wants to come back for more. Keeping training fun is very important to making it a life long activity."
Billy Ard, Former Giants Super Bowl Champion
"Dear Brian and Kevin,
I want to compliment you on the quality of your fitness clubs and staff. The results I achieved are staggering!
Above are the photos taken one year apart. In December of 2002, I was 206 pounds and 26% body fat. In December of 2003, I weighed in at 169 pounds and 8.9% body fat. I have completed four marathons and a half-iron man triathalon!
Doug Todd accomplishments:
- 1999-Disney marathon first one. 4hr 37min
- 2000-began training at TEST Sports Clubs
- 2001-Disney marathon 3hr 30min
- logged 700 miles on the road from7/29/2000 to 01/07/2001
- 2004-Disney Marathon 3hr 41min
- best shape of my life 169lbs, 8.9% body fat.
- 2004-maintained my intense training and participated in my first ½ iron man in Oct 2004
- I finished in 6hr 53min
Over the years I participated in many 20k and sprint triathlons. I use these events as measuring sticks as to my improving endurance and motivation to move on to more challenging events. With TEST in my corner...the sky is the limit!
Thanks TEST for providing the professional resources to help me achieve a high level of fitness as well as my endurance goals. A goal will always be achieved once it is set. People like you and me can do anything we set our minds to."
Douglas W. Todd
"Being a part of the TEST team has helped me attain my personal goal of losing 100 lbs.
As a personal trainer I felt I was not in adequate shape even though others thought I looked fine, I didn't feel fine.
I have always been around sports and played just about every contact sport out there. I played on the defensive line at West Virginia University in the mid to late 80's and got into power lifting after college. It took me sometime to realize I was carrying around senseless extra weight. I wasn't playing ball anymore nor lifting as hard as in the past, so why burden my body with the extra pounds. I also felt out of shape even though I lifted every day, I also had a routine physical in January of 2003 and was told that I had high blood pressure. My doctor wanted to give me medicine to lower my blood pressure. I knew my weight was the culprit. A week or two after my doctor visit, we had a snow storm. While shoveling snow I experienced shortness of breath and I knew right then and there it was time to start eating healthier. That was my wake up call.
Since January 2003, I have lost 100lbs and I feel great. I didn't go on any crash diets or take any pills or special shakes. I just cut back on the volume of food I ate. I did give up bread as far as eating sandwiches and burgers but I still eat pizza and enjoy home cooked meals nightly.
My co-workers and the clients at TEST have really inspired me. They give me the encouragement and desire to work harder now that I am determined to maintain my current weight."
Skip Fuller
"I moved into the Martinsville area in March of 2002, about 200 yards from a "gym" called TEST. I stopped in a few times to look it over and inquire about it's services. I knew I needed to do "something" since, at the time, I was 47 years old and 40 pounds overweight.
I travel often, which involves long days without physical activity and plenty of very nice business lunches and dinners (with cocktails). I got very comfortable in this style of doing business, but I often felt sluggish and tired, not to mention I was unhappy with the way I looked.
I did not want to join a gym (any gym) unless I could make a commitment to also change my life long habits of non-exercise and eating "the good life". So in April of 2003, I made the decision to change my lifestyle and begin a serious exercise program. I joined TEST Sports Clubs!
TEST is a few minutes away from my office which makes "finding the time" to work-out easier. But it is mainly the personal attention from the trainers that makes the difference for me. I became motivated by the trainers and encouraged by their support. This also kept me on a regular exercise schedule. It became FUN, even though it is work. Anything worthwhile takes time and effort. So I accepted this fact and started!
I have been going to TEST Sports Clubs for a year, and it is now a part of my weekly routine. I have lost 45 pounds and reduced my waist from 38.5" to 33". I feel better, and it is rewarding to hear people's reaction to the new me. Some can't believe it. I suppose I don't believe it either. TEST has made a big difference in my life, and I feel great!"
John O'Donnell (48 yrs old)
"Since joining TEST in the spring of 2000, I have felt like a part of a family. My participation in the Lean-4-Life program has absolutely cemented that feeling. Throughout the 3 months, I learned that the old saying "everything in moderation...nothing in excess" definitely rings true.
Through the balance of healthy eating and a challenging exercise regiment (compliments of Iwona and Hillarie!) I lost 20 pounds and gained a new found interest in nutrition. Everyone has been incredibly supportive. Even though there have been a few "bumps in the road", I know that with the support of everyone at TEST Sports Clubs, I will reach my goals, and I will have fun along the way!"
Genine Carlson
"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 its 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!"
John Warren
"TEST Sports Club has been a blessing! Kara's personal relationship with her trainer came at the right time in her adolescense. It was a good way for me to step away and have someone else tell her what she needed to do to reach the next level of her game. My daughter's soccer skills have improved 100%. She is satisfied with her performance and so is her coach. Thank you so much to TEST trainer, Jaime Gauer-keep up the good work!"
Martha Marciscano
"I am always looking for new and fun challenges in my workout routine. I began at TEST with a "Bootcamp" type class with Brian. Five years later, I will tell you that I can probably count on my fingers how many times I have missed this class. It is amazing! Brian's energy and enthusiasm are unsurpassed!
In addition to their impressive level of knowledge regarding all aspects of physical fitness, it is absolutely this energy that both Kevin and Brian, as owners, brought to the club and which defines and sets it apart from any other I have belonged to! As the club grew, they faced the challenge of maintaining this attitude through their trainers. Again, they have shown a real understanding of what it takes to motivate their clients by hiring highly qualified people whose attitudes reflect their own.
I have worked out with many of the TEST trainers over the years and they are all excellent. My children and husband have also worked out at TEST and have all had great experiences. TEST trainers are unbelievable with children - relaying to them the value of hard work and physical fitness, while keeping in prospective age and ability and most importantly, positive self image. In addition, they are excellent friends and role models for these kids!
TEST makes it easy for anyone interested in stepping up to the challenges of exercise to achieve the greatest motivation of all - SUCCESS!"
Amy Klausner
"Four months ago we joined TEST with the express goal of radically improving our health and more specifically we wanted to lose weight while adopting a healthier lifestyle. We brought the willingness and motivation to change, and our trainers provided the means. Iwona, Jaime, Ilze and Kevin have consistently provided challenging exercise routines and by adding constant variety they ensure that we are never bored. Our trainers have also provided us with a great deal of motivation, both by constantly challenging us and by providing honest and constructive feedback. TEST approaches each client with an individualized program, a program that has proven results in the past! All you need to do is trust and invest yourself in the process. The process not only changes your body in the short term but provides you with the information and motivation to make lasting changes in your lifestyle. These changes are all made in a safe, challenging, professional, and fun environment. We would recommend TEST for anybody who is serious about changing their bodies, health, and lifestyles!"
Clarke & Diane Atwell
"I have been a member of TEST Health Club for almost two years. Over the years, I have been so focused on my family and career, that I found myself completely physically out of shape. I know that exercise is important to your health and decided that I would commit myself to getting in shape and being physically fit. I came to TEST and explained my goals to them. For two years, I have been training with Ed and Steve. Each of them truly understands how hard I want to work and they focus on "pushing" me to attain my goals. They are considerate and caring, while also knowing how far to push me so that I can continuously attain new levels of fitness. In addition, I have also had a fantastic time training with Ilze. On Saturdays, weather permitting, she and I hit the trails in Chimney Rock park and can burn off a mean 800 calories. Doing the Saturday cardio training has inspired me to push harder. Climbing mountains is not something that I thought I could do or like to do. Well, I can and I like it.
In two years, I have lost 14 pounds and two pant sizes. I feel physically strong and fit. My blood pressure is perfect and I have a very positive outlook on all that I do. Knowing that I am in shape and am healthy makes a big difference. There are times when I drive to TEST exhausted after a business trip or a long day, but I always leave feeling better than I did coming in.
My advice for other members just starting a new fitness program is to make a commitment to yourself that your fitness is important to your health and well being. Especially, working mothers, it is important to make this time for yourself. After not doing this for most of my career, I realize now that there is no excuse for not doing this. Now, exercise is just a part of my life and when I happen to miss a workout at TEST, I do not feel as good. It is as simple as that."
Linda Pittinger
"Throughout my life, I have always been at my happiest and healthiest when I have been exercising regularly. Why, then, you might ask, haven’t I always exercised? The answer is two-fold; I have always lacked the willpower to stick with a program that didn’t involve belonging to a health club, and it has taken me twenty years to find a gym that I could call home. TEST Health Club has been the solution to both of these problems for the last 4 years! When I joined TEST on that cold winter day I had had it with the shape I was in. My lower back hurt every morning, I was carrying too many extra pounds, and I just didn’t have enough energy to get through my week. I walked into TEST determined to make changes. Not only have I lost at least 14 pounds, improved my energy levels, and gotten rid of that stiff back, I’ve also found a place I can call home. TEST is the kind of place where you find people who care about you and people you care about. The trainers are wonderful, always willing to help. The classes are top notch, really tough, but there’s always someone to commiserate with about all those sore muscles. The facility is clean, convenient, up to date, and a really nice size, and, of course, the members are all very friendly and supportive. I have improved the way I eat, learned how to perform exercises properly, stuck to a lifestyle that includes fitness, and met more wonderful people than I can count, all because of that one wintery day I first opened the door to TEST Health Club. Thank you TEST, for helping me to improve my life."
Suzanne Scannel
"My experience here at TEST has been better than expected. I came here to help with my knee pain and discomfort and the exercises that were done with me has done nothing but help my knee. The training staff has been nothing short of friendly, exceptional, and very knowledgeable. I thank you very much for everything that has been done with me."
Harry Wilmerding
"When I tell friends about TEST, I tell them that this place is very relaxed, comfortable and a pleasant place to work out. The atmosphere is outstanding, the staff is great to be around and the trainers are very friendly, knowledgeable and very unintimidating. It is my pleasure to be a member of this great facility."
Mark Cartel
"When I started to work out regularly, I had a home gym and was very intimidated by the gym-type atmosphere. I always thought that I was exercising correctly. When I came to TEST and started to work with the exceptional training staff, my form is better and most importantly I did not feel like I was hurting myself. Thanks to the staff, I have seen significant changes to my body such as strength increases. Thank you TEST!"
Rob Singer
"The combination of knowledge and personality make my day-to-day visits motivational and entertaining. The training staff is not only knowledgeable and qualified, but very approachable about fitness-related questions and they listen to your needs and wants."
Jane Berney
"The trainers here at TEST tailor the exercise program to the needs and wants of each individual. There are no cookie-cutter workouts that every person goes through. The aspect about the facility that makes me keep coming back is that the place is always kept clean, neat and always presentable."
Carol Valentine
"It's fun!! Everybody is very nice. The training staff is very good.I am always laughing and having a good time. This is a place where you want to be at. You don't have to wait for any of the equipment. I always look forward to exercising at TEST. Lenny's Lean-4-Life Program has been just as helpful. I have come a long way in the 2 years that I have been at TEST and I could not be any happier."
Bev Baker
"My friends and I looked at many other gyms before joining TEST two years ago, and I couldn't be happier! When we started, we each had different fitness goals and needs, and the team at TEST helped each of us by designing customized programs that really worked. The trainers work with you to stay motivated and challenged as you progress toward your goals. Joining TEST was definitely the right choice for me."
Lisa Richardson
"I love to workout at TEST because it is a truly a fun, non-imitating environment where the staff, trainers and other clients are all extremely supportive."
Nicole Cipriani
"After a trip to Australia I realized the 70 something folks on the trip were in better shape than I was at 60. I decided I needed to get in shape and knew I needed a personal trainer and a smaller gym. I didn’t want the huge gym with the blaring music and the 20 somethings in their little gym outfits.
What I needed was an environment that would sustain me for a long time period, a place I felt comfortable and could get personal attention. I found TEST, partially because it is close to home and where I stop for coffee on occasion. After I signed up, I found two people I knew that went there.
When I started, there was a discussion of what areas needed more attention, like my knees. My personal trainer Keith Molloy set up exercises to address my most important concerns. He lets me know what exercise works on what muscles. When I made improvements, we moved on to other machines and exercises. Now when I work out on my own, I follow what we have been doing. Now we can work on other exercises in my personal training sessions.
All the TEST trainers make a great effort to introduce everyone; in no time you know everyone by name. All the trainers watch what you are doing and make corrections when necessary and make suggestions as well. Lots of teasing in a great way keeps everyone laughing.
I also like the discussions on nutrition and weight loss suggestions. I have lost 20 pounds and have made significant improvements in the increase of weight I use on the machines as well as the free weights.
Most important is that you want to go to the gym, as opposed to feeling you are obligated to go."
Carol Dedrick
"I am now a WALKING example of what TEST personifies. When I entered the portals of this establishment, I had a visibly pronounced limp and strange gait. Keith Molloy welcomed me without any qualms, assessed my needs, researched my condition, and geared my work-outs to steadily improve my ability to walk without a problem.
Some people are uncomfortable when a person with a disability approaches, but Keith only sees positive advancement.I am truly grateful for the empathy, warmth, and guidance he has afforded me. He carefully monitors my progress and encourages me to work diligently, while never giving up.
TEST has put me to the TEST and produced success!"
Peg Rizzo
"A wise man I know once said "a country's civilization can be gauged by what it puts down to habit" When it comes to a country's citizens and their physical condition, the saying can be enlarged to include well-being and his/her habits regarding physical fitness. Look around you- N.J. citizens are fat and sedentary.
TEST has been part of my routine for battling the bulge and moving with bounce. Keith Molloy of TEST has been my top sergeant for years with his drills and cheerleading.
He and all the TEST trainers and personnel are ladies and gentlemen, introducing the patrons to each other and encouraging banter while keeping the routines and goals in mind all the while. TEST is a good place, competent and caring!"
Margaret Gillen